Celebrating the Winners of Iris 2026

After seven unforgettable days of films, filmmakers, special guests, conversations and celebrations in Cardiff, the 20th edition of the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival came to a close on Sunday 18 October 2026.
As we look back on an incredible week, we're delighted to celebrate the talented filmmakers and performers recognised at Iris 2026.

Iris Prize 2026 – Magid / Zafar

Director: Luís Hindman (UK) Supported by the Michael Bishop Foundation The prestigious £40,000 Iris Prize was awarded to Luís Hindman for Magid / Zafar, making him the third UK filmmaker to win the award.
2026 Iris Prize Winner - Luis Hindman with Sara Peacock (Chair of the 2026 Jury)
The prize provides the winning filmmaker with £40,000 to make a new LGBTQ+ short film in Wales, continuing Iris's commitment to supporting filmmakers and bringing new stories to the screen. Three films were given a special mention:
  • A Cappella – Marcin Kluczykowski (Poland, 2024)
  • Black Shawl – Kamila Boichenko (Poland, 2025)
  • Seahorse – Leo Tabosa (Brazil, 2024)

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Iris Prize Best British Short Film – Molly

Director: Darius Shu (UK) Sponsored by Film4 and Pinewood Studios Molly, directed by Darius Shu, was named the winner of the Iris Prize Best British Short Film Award 2026. The film follows a chance encounter at a launderette between Vinnie and Ryan, sparking a meaningful connection as the boundaries between closeness, desire and love begin to blur. The Best British Jury also gave special mentions to:
  • Life of Kai, directed by Fox Fisher
  • Yellow Bucket, directed by Simon Brooke
All 15 shortlisted Best British films are available to stream on Channel 4, giving audiences across the UK the opportunity to discover this year's exceptional filmmaking talent.

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Best British Performance Awards

Three outstanding performers were recognised for their work in this year's Best British shortlist.
  • Best Performance in a Female Role - Sarah Ridgeway – Yellow Bucket, playing Jan.
  • Best Performance in a Male Role - Eben Figueiredo – Magid / Zafar, playing Magid.
  • Best Performance in a Role Beyond the Binary - Lilit Lesser – Bluebird, playing Noah.
Congratulations to all three winners for bringing these remarkable characters and stories to life.

Iris Prize Student Short Film Award – Mis-Angel

Winner: Wyatt Carson Introduced to mark the festival's 20th anniversary, the inaugural Iris Prize Student Short Film Award was presented to Wyatt Carson for Mis-Angel. The stop-motion animated film tells the story of a transgender girl reflecting on a fleeting encounter with a stranger at a bus stop, exploring identity, connection and longing. Six films competed for the new award, highlighting the next generation of LGBTQ+ filmmaking talent. The award was announced on Thursday 15 October, following Iris Industry Day.

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  • Community Award
Uncanny Waters – Directed by Ray Malone and Steve Melia
  • Education Award
Kiss Me Thru the Phone – Directed by Scarlett J. Stribley
  • Micro Short Award
Clecs/Gossip – Directed by Harri Shanahan

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The Celebrations Continue with Iris Online!

Missed the festival in Cardiff? There's still time to experience Iris20 from the comfort of your own home!

Iris Online is available across the UK until Saturday 31 October 2026 at 11:59pm.

Discover an incredible selection of LGBTQ+ short films, including our international Iris Prize shortlist, Best British films, Student Award films and more.
  • £2 per programme
  • £10 for an Iris Online Pass, giving you access to all 15 programmes and 78 films.
You can also cast your vote for your favourite short film in the Co-op Audience Award.

WATCH IRIS ONLINE