The 32nd Annual Austin Film Festival once again shined a spotlight on the art of storytelling, celebrating the writers, directors, and creators behind this year’s most impactful films. Over eight days, more than 35,000 attendees experienced 180 films, including 21 world premieres, and participated in over 140 panels exploring the craft and business of storytelling.

Festival attendees cast more than 25,000 ballots to determine the 2025 Audience Award winners, honoring the films that resonated most with audiences. From heartfelt documentaries to offbeat comedies, this year’s winning lineup reflects the festival’s trademark diversity and passion for powerful storytelling.

Here’s the full list of winners:

Marquee Feature: The Boy From St. Croix

Director: Scott Duncan

Basketball legend Tim Duncan opens up in an intimate portrait directed by his brother, reflecting on his career, his love for the game, and his deep connection to his home island of St. Croix.

Narrative Feature: American Baby

Writers: Tanya Leonova, Ellen Rodnianski | Director: Ellen Rodnianski

A poignant coming-of-age story following Oli, a young woman navigating teen pregnancy and isolation in small-town Texas.

Documentary Feature: Stronger Than You Think

Directors: Janice Molinari, Melissa Forman

After losing her leg in a shark attack, Ali Truwit sets her sights on the 2024 U.S. Paralympic team—proving that resilience and purpose can overcome any obstacle.

Comedy Vanguard Feature (TIE): Crystal Cross

Writer/Director: Richie James Follin

A quirky Christian singer and a suicidal dad embark on a chaotic, hilarious cross-country road trip filled with misadventures and self-discovery.

Comedy Vanguard Feature (TIE): Yesterday Island

Writer/Director: Sam Voutas

A failed writer answers a midnight call for help, only to find himself trapped on a surreal subantarctic island in this darkly comedic tale.

Dark Matters Feature: Sacrificios

Writers: Mauricio Chernovetzky, Alexander Iosjpe | Director: Mauricio Chernovetzky

After a devastating loss, Juan seeks solace at sea—where a mysterious event offers redemption at an unimaginable price.

Texas Independent Feature: Valentina

Writers: Noelle Forougi, Tatti Ribeiro | Director: Tatti Ribeiro

A woman’s simple to-do list at the El Paso-Juarez border spirals into chaos in this smart, satirical Texas indie.

Narrative Short (TIE): More Than Dust

Writer/Director: Julia Weisberg Cortés

A terminal diagnosis forces a single mother to relinquish control and embrace vulnerability before it’s too late.

Narrative Short (TIE): Uncle Johnny

Writer: Angela Giarratana | Director: Margaux Susi

A touching story of love, loss, and family as Rose spends one last meaningful day with her terminally ill uncle.

Narrative Student Short: Recess

Writer/Director: Jan Saczek

A young teacher’s accidental text spirals into a career-threatening crisis in this sharply funny student short.

Documentary Short: The Night Herons

Writer/Director: Will Hammond

A group of 48 Houston runners take on a grueling 200-mile relay across Texas, testing their endurance, faith, and friendship.

Animated Short: Beyond Measure

Writer/Director: David Ferrier

As a man physically shrinks, he and his wife adapt to their changing world in this imaginative and heartfelt animated short.

Produced Digital Series: Betsy Fucking Ross

Writer/Director: Kayla Baken

A wildly irreverent reimagining of America’s most famous seamstress because history’s greatest sew job deserves a little attitude.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Austin Film Festival once again proved why it’s a cornerstone of the creative community—championing storytellers who push boundaries, challenge perspectives, and remind audiences of the power of great writing.

For more on the winners and highlights from this year’s festival, visit the AFF website.