Welcome to Cine Choice Awards International:
The Cine Choice Awards is where the art of storytelling takes center stage. We are dedicated to showcasing the most innovative and inspiring films from around the world, providing a unique platform for filmmakers to share their masterpieces with a diverse audience. This year's festival will feature a curated selection of exceptional independent films, including thought-provoking dramas, exhilarating thrillers, groundbreaking documentaries, and imaginative shorts.
We are a global community of creators united by a passion for independent filmmaking. Our festival serves as a meeting point for emerging artists seeking exposure, producers scouting for fresh talent, and investors looking for the next big project. By fostering collaboration and connection, we aim to elevate the independent film landscape and support the creators who make it all possible.
February 22, 2026.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
Film Screenings:
Experience a diverse lineup of films that challenge conventions and explore new narratives. Each screening will offer a window into the creative minds behind the works, allowing audiences to engage with fresh perspectives.
Q&A Sessions:
After select screenings, join us for interactive Q&A sessions with filmmakers. This is your chance to gain insight into their creative processes, inspirations, and the challenges they faced while bringing their stories to life.
Panel Discussions:
Participate in thought-provoking panel discussions featuring industry experts, seasoned filmmakers, and emerging talents. These sessions will cover a range of topics, from funding and distribution strategies to the evolving landscape of independent cinema.
Networking Opportunities:
Connect with fellow filmmakers, industry professionals, and potential collaborators. Our festival provides ample opportunities for networking, and fostering relationships that can lead to exciting new projects.
Join the CineChoice Family:
By attending the Cine Choice Awards, you become part of a dynamic network that champions independent filmmakers and their stories. We are committed to promoting your projects, attracting investors, and creating a platform where exceptional works can thrive. At Cine Choice Awards, we believe in your vision and are dedicated to helping it reach the world.
AWARDS & PRIZES
Prizes and Recognition
Gold Laurel
Winners in each category will receive an official Gold Laurel, symbolizing excellence and achievement. This emblem may be proudly displayed on film posters, trailers, and other promotional materials.
Certificate of Achievement
All winners will be presented with a professionally designed Certificate of Achievement, honoring their exceptional performance and contribution to the festival.
Festival Screening & Q&A
Only films that win in their respective categories will be selected for official festival screening.
Filmmakers whose films are screened will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with the audience, providing insights into their creative process and engaging with festival attendees.
Screening notifications and updates will be sent separately, along with instructions for attending the festival and participating in the Q&A.
FROMATS
Creative video pieces presenting full length or short documentaries, features, music videos and art video compositions.
RULES & TERMS
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Genres Accepted: We are pleased to accept films across a diverse range of genres, including but not limited to:
- Drama
- Comedy
- Action
- Thriller
- Horror
- Science Fiction
- Fantasy
- Romance
- Documentary
- Animation
- Experimental
- Musical
- Historical
2. Submission Requirements:
Submission Format: Films should be submitted in a high-definition digital format. Acceptable formats include MP4, MOV, or AVI. The preferred resolution is 1920x1080.
Press Kit: Each submission must include a comprehensive press kit, which should consist of:
- A detailed synopsis of the film (up to 300 words)
- A biography of the director (up to 200 words)
- Cast and crew credits
- A minimum of three high-resolution stills from the film (minimum 1920x1080)
- A trailer or teaser (if available)
Submission Deadline: All entries must be submitted by given dates. Late submissions will not be considered.
3. Rights and Permissions:
Grant of Rights: By submitting a film, the filmmaker grants the festival a non-exclusive right to use all submitted materials, including the film, press kit, and stills, for promotional, marketing, and festival-related purposes. This includes the use of excerpts for promotional trailers and social media.
Screening Rights: Filmmakers grant the festival the right to upload and stream the submitted film on our streaming platform, CINELOOM.NET. This includes the right to make the film available for viewing by registered users of the service.
Publicity and Promotion: The festival reserves the right to use clips, trailers, and stills from the film for promotional and publicity purposes, including but not limited to festival posters, website features, and social media campaigns.
4. Selection and Notification:
Selection Process: Submitted films will be reviewed by a selection committee comprised of industry professionals. Films will be evaluated based on artistic merit, originality, and overall quality.
First-Round Selection:
- All submitted films are initially reviewed and may be selected in the first round.
- If your film is selected in this round, you will receive the official festival laurels as recognition of your achievement.
Screening Consideration:
- First-round selection does not automatically mean your film will be screened at the festival.
- Only films that are later chosen as winners in their respective categories will be included in the official screening lineup.
Notification of Screening:
- If your film is selected for screening, you will receive a separate notification indicating your updated status.
- Until you receive this notification, your film is considered under review for screening.
Official Status Updates:
- Your film’s status on the festival platform will be updated accordingly once the screening decisions are finalized.
- Films that do not win an award will not be screened, but they will still retain their first-round laurels.
Attending the Festival:
- Even if your film is not selected for screening, you are welcome to request tickets to attend the festival and celebrate the achievements of all selected filmmakers.
LEGAL & LIABILITY
Copyright and Ownership:
Filmmakers must ensure that their submission does not infringe on any copyrights or intellectual property rights. By submitting, filmmakers confirm that they hold all necessary rights and permissions for the film’s content.
Indemnity:
Filmmakers agree to indemnify and hold harmless the festival, its affiliates, sponsors, and partners from any claims, liabilities, or damages arising from the content of the film or its submission.
AGREEMENT
By submitting a film to the festival, filmmakers agree to comply with all rules and terms outlined in this document. Submission of a film constitutes acceptance of these terms.
FESTIVAL CREW
ARMAN SAYAT
FOUNDER
Arman Sayat is a Los Angeles–based writer, director, cinematographer, and editor whose work bridges Central Asian and American cultural perspectives. A graduate of the New York Film Academy in LA with an MFA in Filmmaking, he trained across all major disciplines, refining his craft on the Universal Studios Hollywood backlot. His 2023 drama On the Other Side of the Road marked his breakthrough as a writer and cinematographer, earning praise for its emotional depth and visual style. In 2024, he directed the psychological thriller Mr. Nightmare, further establishing his bold, visually driven voice in contemporary cinema.
AYA SAYAT
FESTIVAL DIRECTOR
Ayaulym Sayat is a Los Angeles–based producer and writer known for her work in short films and commercials. She has worked extensively in both the United States and Central Asia, bringing a strong cross-cultural perspective to her projects. In Central Asia, she served as a film festival organizer and founded Scenum, a platform dedicated to supporting and empowering emerging filmmakers and young creative voices.
EMILY ROBERTS
OPERATION MANAGER
Emily Roberts is an Italian American Film Director and Writer with a strong background in Arts and Photography. After obtaining her Bachelor's Degree in Multimedia Arts in Venice - Italy - and her Master's Degree in Filmmaking in Burbank, she has been deeply involved in the Film Industry, primarily working as a Director and Assistant Director in Los Angeles. Whether capturing the intricacies of everyday life through Photography or exploring profound themes in Film, Emily aims to craft stories that resonate and leave a lasting impression.
ARSEN DIUSHEKEEV
OPERATION MANAGER
Arsen Diushekeev is a dynamic young filmmaker hailing from Kyrgyzstan, whose work is already making waves on the international stage. Currently pursuing an MFA in Filmmaking at the New York Film Academy, Diushekeev has quickly distinguished himself with a fresh and innovative approach to storytelling. Diushekeev’s films are marked by their deep exploration of LGBTQ themes, reflecting both personal experiences and broader social issues. His unique perspective offers a poignant voice to underrepresented narratives, and his dedication to modern, inclusive cinema has garnered significant acclaim.
February 22, 2026
2:30 PM PDT.
CINE CHOICE AWARDS Film Festival.
625 North San Vicente Boulevard, West Hollywood City Council Chambers