The 2025 (40th) Film Independent Spirit Awards, held on February 22 in Santa Monica, celebrated the best in independent film and television. Hosted by comedian and actress Aidy Bryant, the ceremony recognized groundbreaking achievements in storytelling, performance, and filmmaking from across the globe. With its diverse and inclusive slate of winners, the evening highlighted how the indie film world continues to innovate and inspire.
Best Feature
The prestigious award for Best Feature went to Anora, a film that captivated critics and audiences alike with its raw and emotional storytelling. Directed by Sean Baker, Anora tells a gripping tale that combines elements of drama and realism in ways that pushed boundaries and evoked powerful performances.
Best Director
Sean Baker’s work on Anora earned him the Best Director award. Known for his ability to create rich, intimate narratives, Baker once again demonstrated his remarkable skill at drawing out the most human aspects of his characters. His direction was widely praised for its balance of tenderness and social commentary.
Best Lead Performance
The Best Lead Performance award went to Mikey Madison for her portrayal of a young woman trapped in a cycle of grief and emotional turmoil in Anora. Madison’s performance was described as stunning, with her nuanced portrayal earning her standing ovations and setting a new standard for leading roles in independent cinema.
Best Supporting Performance
Kieran Culkin took home the Best Supporting Performance award for his role in A Real Pain. Known for his versatility, Culkin's portrayal of a complex, morally ambiguous character showcased his immense talent and earned widespread recognition.
Best Screenplay
Jesse Eisenberg was awarded the Best Screenplay trophy for A Real Pain, a film that combines dark humor with deep philosophical questions. Eisenberg's script explores the intricacies of modern relationships, offering sharp dialogue and layered character development.
Best First Feature
Dìdi, a heart-wrenching coming-of-age film, won Best First Feature. The film, written and directed by first-time filmmaker Sean Wang, introduced a fresh and original voice to the indie film world. Dìdi tells the story of a young girl navigating family struggles, identity, and the quest for belonging.
Best First Screenplay
Sean Wang also took home the award for Best First Screenplay for Dìdi. His writing impressed the jury with its emotional depth and authenticity, making him one of the breakout talents of the year in the indie film community.
Best International Film
The Best International Film award went to Flow, a Brazilian drama that captured the struggles of its protagonist as she navigates societal pressures and personal freedom. Flow was lauded for its striking visuals and poignant themes, establishing its director as a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.
Best Documentary
No Other Land, directed by Anna Johnson, won Best Documentary, highlighting the lives of undocumented immigrants and their journey to find a sense of home in an uncertain world. The documentary was praised for its empathy and its unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities faced by many.
Best Cinematography
Jomo Fray’s breathtaking work in Nickel Boys earned him the award for Best Cinematography. The film’s powerful visual style elevated its haunting narrative, and Fray’s ability to capture the emotional intensity of the characters was crucial to the film’s success.
Best Editing
Hansjörg Weissbrich won Best Editing for September 5, a film that navigates the complexities of memory and trauma. Weissbrich’s editing was integral in creating a nonlinear narrative that heightened the emotional impact of the film’s plot twists.
Television Awards
The television side of the ceremony also recognized outstanding achievements, with new series like Shōgun and How to Die Alone earning major honors.
Best New Scripted Series
Shōgun, a historical epic, took home the award for Best New Scripted Series. Its compelling storytelling, immersive world-building, and nuanced performances have made it one of the most talked-about new shows of the year.
Best Lead Performance in a New Scripted Series
Richard Gadd was awarded Best Lead Performance for his portrayal of a vulnerable character in Baby Reindeer. Gadd’s ability to bring depth to his character through subtlety and wit was a highlight of the series.
Best Supporting Performance in a New Scripted Series
Nava Mau won Best Supporting Performance for her role in Baby Reindeer, a series that has garnered praise for its rich character development and raw storytelling. Mau’s portrayal added emotional weight to the show’s already powerful narrative.
Best Breakthrough Performance in a New Scripted Series
Jessica Gunning received the award for Best Breakthrough Performance for her portrayal of a troubled yet optimistic character in Baby Reindeer. Her performance resonated deeply with viewers and showcased her incredible range as an actress.
Best Ensemble Cast in a New Scripted Series
How to Die Alone, a dark comedy about the complexities of modern relationships, won Best Ensemble Cast. The series, praised for its witty script and impeccable chemistry among the actors, highlighted the power of collaboration in storytelling.
Best New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series
Hollywood Black won the award for Best New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series. The show delves into the experiences of Black filmmakers and their contributions to Hollywood, offering a profound exploration of race, representation, and the industry’s evolution.
The 2025 Film Independent Spirit Awards once again celebrated the bold and innovative voices within the independent film and television community. With a focus on unique storytelling, diverse narratives, and standout performances, the evening provided a glimpse into the future of cinema and television—a future that promises to be just as exciting and boundary-pushing as the works celebrated on that night.
The complete list of winners in every category can be found here.
Comments