#Japan #Tokyo #CyberAgent #SSFF & ASIA #Short Film

CyberAgent Vertical Award: Showcasing the Future of Vertical Video Content

The Short Short Film Festival & Asia (SSFF & ASIA), one of the largest international short film festivals in Asia and recognized by the Academy Awards, is gearing up for its next event in 2026. In collaboration with CyberAgent, a major digital media company based in Tokyo, they have recently launched the CyberAgent Vertical Award, aimed at discovering new talents in the short film space and recognizing innovative vertical video content.

What is the CyberAgent Vertical Award?

The award seeks to honor creative works that showcase effective and strong expressions through vertical videos. This category includes various formats such as short dramas, branded movies, and tourism films. The focus is not only on creativity but also on delivering powerful messages and engaging visual innovations.

Established with the vision to create a platform for vertical video creativity, the award is set to commence in 2025. This initiative promises to elevate vertical content as a distinct and significant form of artistic expression.

Highlights from the 2025 Award

In its inaugural year, the CyberAgent Vertical Award attracted five nominees, including Kotoba no Kuse and Koneko Film, with Koneko Film ultimately taking home the prestigious title. Director Shunji Iwai, who was a presenter at the ceremony, expressed delight in witnessing the enthusiasm and talent of the participants, noting how vertical video has become an accessible and relatable form of content in everyday life.

As preparations for the 2026 awards are underway, the scope has expanded to welcome contributions from international filmmakers, thereby broadening its reach beyond Japan. The goal is to receive the most submissions of vertical films in the history of SSFF & ASIA, with an aim to exhibit a diverse array of artistic expressions and high-caliber productions.

Award Details

Winners of the CyberAgent Vertical Award will receive a cash prize of 500,000 yen along with additional benefits, including a unique studio experience at Goku AI Odaiba Studio, where the winners will have access to advanced facilities for production.

About Goku AI Odaiba Studio

The Goku AI Odaiba Studio, owned by CyberAgent, specializes in maximizing advertising effectiveness using AI and 3DCG technologies. Equipped with state-of-the-art tools like high-quality volumetric capture and advanced LED walls, the studio stands as a hub for innovative creative works.

Exciting Futures

Director Shunji Iwai remarked on the rapid evolution of vertical videos, highlighting their growing prominence in the media landscape. It will be fascinating to see what groundbreaking work wins the next Grand Prix.

Tatsuya Ando, the director at CyberAgent Entertainment, expressed pride in being part of this globally recognized festival, eagerly anticipating the compelling expressions from creators at the forefront of this dynamic format.

Application Information

For those looking to participate, there are two main application periods:
1. Submissions by January 31, 2026 can enter any live action, non-fiction, or animation categories at SSFF & ASIA for consideration.
2. Submissions from February 1 to March 31, 2026 should use the dedicated application form for the CyberAgent Vertical Award.

Further details and application forms can be found at: SSFF & ASIA Application Portal.

Conclusion

The CyberAgent Vertical Award represents an exciting development in the film industry, emphasizing vertical video content that resonates with modern audiences. Filmmakers and creators are encouraged to harness this unique opportunity to showcase their talents and innovative ideas through this accessible and rapidly evolving format.