u/thekocman

This won't come across as news for most veteran filmmakers. But, since I'm a newbie and first-timer, I had to learn this lesson the hard way. So, I decided to spell this nice and clear for any other filmmakers approaching the industry for the first time: Los Angeles Short Film Award is a total scam and you should avoid it at all costs.

I submitted my film a bit longer than a month ago, with today, 11th August 2026, as the notification date. I started becoming wary ten days ago, when I noticed they hadn't watched my film yet (I can track views via the YouTube embedded player). My friends told me it could be normal, as I might be towards the end of their list. But nope, day by day, they never watched my film. Until today, with 0 views on my video, they notified me via Filmfreeway that I had won their "Honorable mention". I then received this bs email:

"Your project has gained status Honorable Mention in film festival Los Angeles Short Film Awards 2026!

🎬You Received an Honorable Mention – That’s Something to Celebrate!

Your film stood out among hundreds - your vision, voice, and creativity captured the attention of the jury. Mark this moment with a TROPHY - a handcrafted keepsake that honors your achievement and reminds you that every great journey begins with recognition."

Ignoring the AI slop email... I went and checked: the trophy is $300. They want me to buy an overpriced piece of plastic to "celebrate" an award I never won, since they didn't watch anything. And now I'm twice as disappointed and bitter, because I can't use this pointless laurel they sent me, unless I want more filmmakers to fall into the trap, or associate these scammers to my product.

I should've gotten suspicious when I read that the "event" is fully online (it never happened), and that the event date is the same as the notification date. Not to mention that this scam happens all year long, so they can maximise profits.

I've left them a 1 star review, but it never appeared on their page. I also complained to FilmFreeway, but I'm quite sure they won't do anything as this scam has been running for 7 years and they likely also make a lot of money from it.

I feel stupid, naïve and deceived. Please avoid these clowns at all costs. Had to get this off my chest, and if I can save even one more creator with this post, then I did my part.