2026 Reedy Reels Film Festival announces winners

GREENVILLE, S.C. – A fantastic three days of independent film in downtown culminated with judges honoring the best of the best.

Categories and Winners are:

High School - Chien Thang by Kristen Nguyen

College - fading. by Emme Patat

Documentary - A Butterfly Has Been Released by Jason Zamer & Barry Koch

Animation - Two Ships by McKinley BensonComedy - After Life Hunters by Connor Copeland

Horror - Recluse by Matt WebbDrama - Sit With Me While I Die by Brian Russell

Best Short - interiorem pueri by Emily Lerer

Best Upstate - Beyond the Gingko by Francesca A SneedBest Southeast - Pulled Taut by Ellie Roberts

Music Video - Sober by Jessica Berggrun and Mark Johnson

Creative Commercial -  Doordash: Distance Disappears by Coleman Andersen.

People's Choice - Emergency Contact by Tyler Young

Film of Distinction - Artis Residence by Sarah Dresser

Best International - Revolution by Xinti Lim (International School Of Kuala Lumpur)

“The winners are well deserving, but were not easily chosen amongst their peers,” said Rhodes Farrell, Executive Director of Reedy Reels. “We had such an incredible display of talent this year that the gap between winners and runner ups was narrow. This is great issue to have, especially for the audience.”

About Reedy Reels:

Reedy Reels promotes the appreciation of the art of filmmaking while generating support for independent filmmakers, especially in the Upstate. The festival will engage the community and create exposure for local filmmaking while building inspiration and new opportunities for local artists. Learn more at reedyreels.com.