Beginning in 2026, SIMI Film Fest is proud to introduce the SIMIFF Jury Prize, a new honor designed to support bold, distinctive filmmakers at a pivotal moment in their careers.

Selected by an independent jury panel of six industry judges, the Jury Prize will be awarded to one standout film that demonstrates exceptional originality, vision, and creative confidence.

The recipient of the SIMIFF Jury Prize will receive a three-month mentorship with Matt Smith, Agent at CAA.

This mentorship is intended to provide meaningful, real-world guidance for filmmakers navigating the professional landscape, offering insight into career strategy, packaging, positioning, and the realities of representation and next-step opportunities. The focus of the mentorship may center on a single project or be designed to support the filmmaker’s broader creative trajectory and long-term growth.

The SIMIFF Jury Prize reflects the festival’s ongoing commitment to opening doors of opportunity for filmmakers who demonstrate exceptional filmmaking talent, take risks, tell stories with purpose, and are ready to move forward in their careers.

Matt Smith

Agent, Creative Artists Agency (CAA)