The Forum on Life, Culture, & Society (FOLCS) hosted the 13th Annual Awards Night for our International Short Film Competition on May 5, 2026. Held at the iconic Peter Norton Symphony Space, a landmark for arts and culture in New York City, the FOLCS Annual Awards Night is a celebration of storytelling that challenges, enlightens, and inspires. It was an unforgettable evening of powerful films, bold voices, and a shared appreciation for cinema’s impact on justice and social change — all in a venue that has hosted some of the world’s most thought-provoking performances.

Event Highlights

Free Admission: A night of cinematic excellence at no cost. Engage with some of the world’s most pressing social justice and human rights themes, conveyed through the work of talented upcoming filmmakers.

Red Carpet & Photo Experience: Guests stepped onto the red carpet and captured the moment at our exclusive photo stand. They celebrated with friends, fellow film lovers, and filmmakers while enjoying the cinematic atmosphere of the FOLCS Annual Awards Night.

Screening of Finalist Films: Guests were among the first to view a few of this year’s finalist short films. These films were thoughtfully selected for their unique perspectives on pressing global issues. They showcase the rich and diverse fabric of human experience while asking powerful questions about justice, survival, and community.

Awards Presentation: The evening concluded with our Awards Presentation, where we honored the most outstanding films of the festival. Guests celebrated the achievements of these visionary filmmakers as we announced the winners.

Online Screening Days (April 30th- May 9th): Join us for the FOLCS International Short Film Competition Online Screening Days, where this year’s powerful finalist films will be available to watch from anywhere. Experience bold, thought-provoking stories from emerging filmmakers exploring themes of law, justice, and human rights.