TRASH Wins Best Animated Short at Cinequest
The animated short film TRASH received the Jury Prize for Best Animated Short Film at the 35th edition of the Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival, held in San Jose, California. This award marks a key moment in the film’s festival run and reflects the strong response it has generated from international audiences and juries alike. The selection reflects the film’s strong artistic direction and its clear narrative, which resonated with the audience and the festival’s jury.

Now Officially Oscar-Qualified
By winning at Cinequest—one of the Academy’s qualifying festivals—TRASH has now secured eligibility for the Oscars in the Best Animated Short Film category. This milestone opens the door for further recognition, offering a chance to reach a broader audience beyond the festival circuit. While Oscar qualification doesn’t guarantee a nomination, it’s an important step for any short film seeking to build visibility and momentum in the industry.

A Growing International Presence
In addition to Cinequest, TRASH has been selected by multiple international festivals, with screenings in cities such as Tokyo, Toronto, Wellington, and Offenburg. Its growing list of selections reflects a consistent interest in the film’s approach and tone, and reinforces its appeal to a wide range of viewers. As it continues its journey across festivals, the film is also contributing to the early careers of its creators, offering a strong first step into the world of professional animation.

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