This time, the jury is going to include the co-founders of the award – film critics Irena Kaciałovič and Taras Tarnalitski, as well as film researchers Almira Ousmanava, Sasha Razor and Volha Isakava, culture and media expert Maksim Zhbankou, festival organizer Igor Soukmanov, film critics Hanna Yafremenka and Uliana Rubanava, and film journalist Natallia Vavilonskaya. Part of the jury remains anonymous for security reasons.
Like before, experts will determine the best feature-length and short fiction films, documentaries, and animated films. This year, the jury will also evaluate the new nomination Best Documentary Report. The experts will determine the best filmmakers in their respective areas, as well as the Discovery of the Year among the creators of the films submitted for the award.
The Red Heather’26 short list will be announced in January 2026, and the winners will be announced in February.
