Iris Prize Best British Shorts announcement

Join SCENE and Iris Prize as we unveil the shortlisted films competing for the 2026 Iris Prize Best British Award, sponsored by Film4 and Pinewood Studios.

In this exclusive event, SCENE will reveal which film from their shortlist has been selected as part of this year's Best of British programme alongside the other success nominees. Plus get the chance to meet and celebrate the filmmakers behind the short films before the overall winner is announced on 16th October 2026 at the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival in Cardiff.

All 15 shortlisted films will be available to stream across the UK on Channel 4 for one year following the Awards Show in October.

Born in Cardiff and loved around the world, the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival is a global celebration of LGBTQ+ storytelling where filmmakers, dreamers, and audiences come together to share the power of film. In 2026, Iris turns 20, marking two decades of laughter, love, and unforgettable stories that have shaped a worldwide family. At the heart of Iris is the £40,000 Iris Prize, the largest short film prize in the world, supported by the Michael Bishop Foundation. Each year, the winner is invited to create their next LGBTQ+ short film in Cardiff.

SCENE LGBTQ+ TV & Film Festival became a nominating festival in 2025, selecting one short film from a filmmaker in the Northern region to be part of the Best of British selection.

Tickets are free, booking is required.

TIMINGS

• 12.00pm - Doors

• 12.30pm - Feature starts

• Event duration: 1 hour 30 mins

• 2.00pm - Event ends