Twenty short films receive 44 Academy Award nominations

Graphic provided

Congrats to the 20 films – nine short films and 11 feature films – celebrated by Heartland Film that received 44 total Academy Award® Nominations.

With eight short film nominations, the Indy Shorts Film Festival programmed more short film Oscar® nominees than any other festival in the country. “The Singers” received their Oscar®-qualifying Narrative Grand Prize Award at the 2025 Indy Shorts Film Festival, as well as the festival’s Narrative Audience Choice Award.

In October, the Heartland Film Festival showcased nine Oscar®-nominated films, including “Sentimental Value,” which is up for Best Picture and a total of nine nominations. Three recipients of Heartland Film’s Truly Moving Picture Award also received Oscar® nominations, including Best Picture nominee, “Hamnet.”

“Each year, Heartland Film reviews thousands of submissions across both of our festivals,” Greg Sorvig said. “From that wealth of creativity and talent, we shape programs designed to enrich, challenge and resonate with Hoosier audiences. When those films go on to earn Oscar® nominations, it’s a thrilling reminder of why we do this work. Congratulations to all of the nominees, and here’s to an unforgettable night on March 15!”

Click here for more information on the nominations.