<p>The FOLCS International Short Film Competition (ISFC) is an annual competition run by the Forum on Life, Culture & Society that invites filmmakers worldwide to submit short films exploring themes of law, justice, and society. Now in its 13th edition, the competition screens finalist films online and culminates in an in-person Awards Night in New York City.</p><ul><li>Open to filmmakers of all genres — animation, documentary, drama, comedy, experimental, and more.</li><li>Films must be 20 minutes or fewer in runtime.</li><li>Award categories include Best Short (1st, 2nd, 3rd), Best Screenplay, Best Young Filmmaker (aged 21 and under), and Audience Favorite.</li><li>Winners receive a certificate and the FOLCS-Y glass trophy.</li><li>Submissions open annually around June via FilmFreeway with tiered early, regular, and late deadlines; a student discount is available.</li><li>The 2026 Awards Night takes place on 5 May 2026 at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia, Peter Norton Symphony Space, with online screening days from 30 April to 9 May 2026.</li></ul>