PRESS RELEASE
Stellar celebrated its most successful year yet in 2025, with a sold-out crowd gathered under a perfect night sky to witness an unforgettable showcase of the best short films from 2024. The prestigious Stellar 12—a handpicked, invitation-only selection—featured outstanding films chosen from over 90 award-winning Australian shorts, solidifying Stellar’s place as a premier festival for cinematic excellence.
The evening was seamlessly held together by the ever-entertaining Scott Major as MC, alongside the charismatic Jackson Tozer, keeping the energy high and the audience engaged throughout the night.
The event welcomed an array of esteemed filmmakers, including directors, producers, writers, and cast members from each of the Stellar 12 films. A distinguished panel of judges, featuring Glendyn Ivin, Christian White, Darren Gilshenan, Madeleine Dyer, Leah Popple, and Annelise Hickey, had the challenging task of selecting this year’s top honors.
A Night of Celebration and Inclusion
Festival directors Jasmine and Stuart Charles were ecstatic about the evening’s success. “Bringing together the best short films of the year for one spectacular night is a joy not just for the audience, but for the filmmakers themselves. The best part was seeing the filmmakers in awe of each other’s work, sharing their admiration and celebrating the power of short films together.”
The night opened with This Must Be Love, a short film by Bus Stop Films, marking the launch of a new collaboration between Stellar and Bus Stop to champion diversity and inclusion in filmmaking. Bus Stop Ambassador Mimi Varasdi introduced the film, setting the tone for an evening of cinematic excellence and celebration.
Award Winners
Best Film – The Meaningless Daydreams of Augie and Celeste
Written and directed by Pernell Marsden, this beautifully shot 16mm film captivated audiences with its whimsical yet dramatic portrayal of two young girls whose playful world takes a sudden, emotional turn. The film also earned the Best Production Design Award and the Rising Star Award for Libby Segal (Celeste), who charmed the crowd while accepting her award.
Audience Choice & Best Screenplay – Die Bully Die
Directed by brothers Nick and Nathan Lacey, this sharp, darkly humorous film, written by its stars Matthew Backer and Drew Weston, struck the perfect balance of shock, humor, and heart. The film resonated deeply with audiences, winning both Best Screenplay and the coveted Audience Choice Award.
Judges' Special Mention & Best Performance – Gorgo
Fresh off its 2025 AACTA Award for Best Film, Gorgo saw Danielle Stamoulos awarded Best Performance for her stunning portrayal in this post-war masterpiece. She and producer Katie Amos also accepted the Judges' Special Mention Award for the film’s powerful storytelling.
Best Cinematography – Yeah the Boys
This Sydney backyard masterpiece by Stefan Hunt and Vanessa Marian continued its global success, earning Best Cinematography for Sam Chiplin, further cementing its impact on the international festival circuit.
A Celebration of Outstanding Filmmaking
Alongside the award winners, the Stellar 12 lineup featured a remarkable selection of films, including And the Ocean Agreed, Astronots, Bird Drone, Good Neighbour, Favourites, Yakka, Finding Jia, and Last Man Standing. Each brought unique and powerful storytelling to the festival, showcasing the depth of talent in Australian short filmmaking.
With unforgettable films, inspiring talent, and a passionate audience, Stellar 2025 proved once again why it remains one of the most anticipated events on the film festival calendar.