Understory High Film Festival

The 2025 Understory High Screening & Awards occurred on Friday 10 October at Tanks Arts Centre, where the shortlisted films lit up the big screen. It was a vibrant evening of creativity as the region’s high school filmmakers showcase their stories to a live audience.

First launched in 2023, Understory High is a dedicated platform for young storytellers, offering high school students the chance to share their vision and imagination through film. The inaugural event featured an inspiring mix of short films that reflected the diverse voices of our region’s talented youth.

Now in its third year, Understory High continues to celebrate passion, creativity, and the limitless potential of the next generation of filmmakers.

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Purchase tickets to the Understory Film Festival flagship HERE.

Understory High 2025 Highly Commended  (7753173)

The Worst Movie Ever - Lara Carruthers

Help Me - Jasper Phillipson

Escape the Chase - Elke Osborne

When Words Fail - Sandi Mayo

Memories - Leela Thao

Peace and Quiet - Baran Eftekhar and Lara Carruthers

Doppelganger - Leah Ericson

Kermit and the Swamp - Leia (James) Sullivan

Run Kitty Run - Brooke Thompson

Grieve - Georgia Willis

Grand Theft Reality - Keishin Kurahashi & Bipal Khadka

Run Don’t Look - Eli Barron

Motorbike - Jade Gubb

The Fight - Tony Le

Understory High 2025 Trophies

Best Year 7-8 Animation

The Poptart - Kaylee Gubb

Best Year 9-10 Narrative

The Insomniac - Hudson Smith

Best Year 9-10 Non-narrative

The Blind Symphony - Kaleena Morris, Nina Decavalla & Kate Piquero

Best Year 9-10 Animation

Blast Off - Baran Eftekhar

Best Year 11-12 Narrative

Lost In Time - Akira Schwarz

Best Year 11-12 Non-narrative

Age - Ella Carney

Best Year 11-12 Animation

Harold’s First Day - Brodie Lucas

Essential Screen Skills and Garrick’s Camera House Best Film Award

Lost In Time - Akira Schwarz

Essential Screen Skills People’s Choice Award

Fillet-O-No by Dan Paul