Palm Springs Honors

A New Honor · Palm Springs International Film Society Palm Springs
Honors Honoring a legacy of leadership, and championing the next generation of filmmakers. Harold Matzner The Awards The Harold Matzner Distinguished Achievement Award honors extraordinary individuals whose careers have profoundly influenced the global film industry through artistic excellence, visionary leadership, and enduring philanthropic impact. Named in honor of Harold Matzner—whose transformational leadership elevated the Palm Springs International Film Awards & Film Society into one of the most respected cultural and awards-season platforms in the world—the award embodies a legacy rooted in innovation, inclusivity, civic engagement, and the power of cinema to shape culture and connect communities. It recognizes individuals whose influence transcends the screen, leaving a lasting imprint on both the entertainment industry and society at large. In keeping with Harold Matzner's deep commitment to championing future generations, the honor is paired with the Harold Matzner Impact Award, presented to an emerging filmmaker or producer whose work demonstrates the power of storytelling to inspire change, challenge perspectives, and drive meaningful impact in their community. Designed to provide both financial support and elevated visibility at a defining moment in an artist's career, the award serves as a catalyst for the next generation of cinematic voices—bridging exceptional promise with transformative opportunity. Together, these honors create a powerful continuum—recognizing legacy at the highest level while actively supporting the next generation who will shape the future of the industry. Two Honors, One Continuum Legacy, and what comes next I Legacy Harold Matzner Distinguished Achievement Award Recognizing a career that has profoundly shaped the global film industry. Committee Selected
Learn more → II The Next Generation Harold Matzner Impact Award A finishing grant for an emerging U.S.-based filmmaker or producer completing a socially impactful project. $25,000 Grant · Applications Open July 14, 2026
Learn more & apply → Distinguished Achievement Award A career that shaped the industry Recognizing influence that transcends the screen. The Harold Matzner Distinguished Achievement Award honors an extraordinary individual whose career has profoundly influenced the global film industry through artistic excellence, visionary leadership, and enduring philanthropic impact. The award embodies a legacy rooted in innovation, inclusivity, civic engagement, and the power of cinema to shape culture and connect communities — recognizing influence that transcends the screen and leaves a lasting imprint on both the entertainment industry and society at large. The Distinguished Achievement Award honoree is selected by committee and will be recognized at PSIFS's October event. There is no public application for this award. Selection By committee — no public application Recognition Presented at PSIFS's October event Winner Announced October 19, 2026 Impact Award A $25,000 finishing grant For the next generation of storytellers. An annual finishing grant supporting an emerging U.S.-based filmmaker or producer in completing an existing project that explores a significant social issue. The award provides critical financial support at a pivotal stage of post-production, while helping amplify stories with the power to foster dialogue and increase awareness. "My mantra is: never give up, always push forward." Harold Matzner's guiding philosophy carried him through four decades in Palm Springs—and it carries the Impact Award forward now, for filmmakers meeting their own defining moment. The Award A $25,000 cash grant toward finishing the project Recognition at the Harold Matzner Impact Award Ceremony on October 19, 2026 Recognition during the Palm Springs International Film Awards on January 7, 2027 Priority programming consideration for the completed film at Palm Springs International Film Festival or ShortFest Round-trip domestic economy airfare and hotel to attend the October 19 ceremony Please note: it is recommended that you consult with a tax professional regarding any tax liability incurred with a grant. Who Can Apply A U.S.-based filmmaker or producer No more than two feature directing credits (directors) or producing credits (producers) Principal photography complete; project substantially finished and in post-production Able to complete the project within approximately 12 months Available to attend the October ceremony if selected Eligible Projects Narrative, documentary, or animated shorts or features that are substantially complete and in post-production, and that explore significant social issues, including: Civil & human rights Health & mental health Education Environmental sustainability Criminal justice Immigration Economic inequality Disability & accessibility Gender equity LGBTQ+ communities Indigenous communities Housing & food insecurity Funds May Support Color correction, sound design/mix, original score Deliverables and accessibility materials Marketing and publicity Festival submission fees and travel Impact campaign development Community screenings and audience engagement Distribution preparation Required Materials Completed application Work-in-progress screener Applicant's bio Applicant's intro video Project status statement Social impact statement Logline & film synopsis Budget and funding request Resume or filmography Production stills Timeline July 14 – August 4, 2026 Applications open August 4, 2026 Applications close (11:59 PM PT) Mid-September 2026 Recipient notified October 19, 2026 Harold Matzner Impact Award Ceremony Applications accepted July 14 – August 4, 2026 Open to U.S.-based filmmakers and producers with a project in post-production. Apply for the Impact Award