TESTIMONIALS
"I had heard how special SYS was from friends but was still caught off guard when I finally experienced it for myself. Every aspect of the festival is so intentional...from the personal write-ups created for every film, to the single venue which encouraged everyone to watch each other's work, and to the magic filled panels. You can definitely feel that it's a festival made by filmmakers. Highly recommend experiencing it for yourself!"
- Nick Hartano
"Salute Your Shorts was an incredible experience. True to their word, it’s a truly filmmaker-friendly festival, and I was honored to be included in a program with such a high caliber of films. The team was communicative, supportive, and generous throughout, and their care for both the filmmakers and the work really stood out. Winning Best Documentary was such an honor and a wonderful way to cap off the experience!"
- Catie Skipp
"How great was it receive a personal phone call announcing the inclusion of BELIEF in this wonderful film festival. Salute Your Shorts is a powerful network of filmmakers here in the industry's capital. Thank you Lauren and Erin. So grateful to be a part. If you get the opportunity, do all you can to be a part!"
- Christian Loubek
"This festival is truly of the highest caliber. The SYS team is so welcoming, having lovingly cultivated a strong community of filmmakers and film lovers. Extremely well organized and well attended, both by the filmmakers and alumni who are eager to support and champion independent film. We were honored to win the Programmers Choice award this year, and we so look forward to coming back to the festival. Thank you for the love, SYS!"
- Adam Elliott
"I'd say this is the best film festival in Los Angeles. Stellar programming, great theater, and relaxed atmosphere that is very conducive to meeting other filmmakers. Could not recommend this festival more!"
- Sean Pecknold
"Truly cannot say enough good things about this festival. The programming was exquisite. Every film I saw was fantastic. The filmmaker networking was a delight. Erin, Lauren, Jillian, Kath, Vinny, Elle and team put their heart and souls into making SYS an unforgettable experience for filmmakers-- and it was just that."
- Catherine Loerke
"Salute Your Shorts is my favorite festival that I've ever been to. From the submission process to the final awards, this festival is about building a filmmaker community and celebrating powerful storytelling. The programming of the filmmakers emphasizes quality over quantity. It was an honor to be a part of this festival!"
- GG Hawkins
"Salute Your Shorts is one of the best festivals I've ever attended. It is a tightly curated well-organized festival. The location was perfect for screening and mingling with fellow filmmakers. The small but mighty team of programmers and volunteers are thoughtful about every aspect of the experience. Something that often goes unnoticed at marathon screenings like these -- convenience of food and drinks. Every day SYS brought a variety of food and drinks to us. Thank you, Erin, Elle, Becky, Lauren, Jillian, Nakorn, and volunteers for inviting my short, The Bond, to SYS this year!"
- Jahmil Eady
"Such a special festival! The programming is fantastic and it was an honor to screen with such an inspiring slate of films. The festival team is so welcoming, supportive, and thoughtful—they’ve created a truly filmmaker- and community-centered experience that is one of a kind! Highly recommend this festival, an amazing overall experience and great community of passionate programmers, filmmakers, and film fans."
- Sue Ding
"Salute Your Shorts does a great job of building a community for filmmakers that are at their festival. They are very hands on and truly care about helping promote and elevate filmmakers and their careers."
- Natalie Metzger
"I can't imagine making a short film in the future and not submitting to Salute Your Shorts. Whatever you're looking for in a film festival you'll find it here. Proud to be a SYS Alum."
- Tommy Buttler