16th Annual LA WEBFEST 2025 Concludes with Huge Success, Showcasing Global Streaming Talent and Industry Icons
The 16th Annual LA WEBFEST wrapped up its highly successful run on May 1–2, 2025, at the Barnsdall Gallery Theatre in Los Angeles. This year’s event featured a diverse and dynamic showcase of long-form series, short-form web series, short films, pilots, and podcasts from around the world—including content from major platforms like Netflix, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime. With a record number of attendees and an impressive lineup of nominees and guests, LA WEBFEST reaffirmed its place as a premier platform for emerging creators and industry veterans alike.
Los Angeles, CA, United States, 8th May 2025 – The 16th Annual LA WEBFEST concluded its vibrant two-day celebration of digital storytelling at the Barnsdall Gallery Theatre, drawing creators, producers, and fans from over 30 countries. The festival, which took place May 1–2, 2025, spotlighted a wide spectrum of digital content—from compelling web series to groundbreaking podcasts—demonstrating the global reach and creative vitality of the streaming and web content industries.
This year’s festival welcomed submissions across multiple categories, with standout works representing the best in storytelling, direction, sound design, and performance. A total of 40 award winners were honored with trophies, celebrating excellence across genres and formats. The event welcomed both rising stars and established industry figures, all gathering to connect, collaborate, and celebrate innovation in the digital space.
Outstanding Long-Form Series Award
The Outstanding Long-Form Writer / Creator Award was presented to the American series When Calls the Heart, and the Outstanding Long-Form Series Award was presented to the French series Until the End of the Dream, applauded for its exceptional storytelling and production value.
Other honoree long-form series included:
Degrassi (USA), When Calls the Heart (USA), English Teacher (USA), Terrifier 3 (USA), Ambitions (USA), Sing Sing(USA), and Füxe (Germany).
These projects captivated audiences with their diverse narratives and outstanding performances.
Podcast Highlight & Award Winner
A standout in this year’s podcast category, Curious Matter Anthology received the Best Sci-fi / Fantasy Podcast Awardfor its Mars-set thriller The Exile. Featuring a stellar voice cast—Tiffany Smith, Trace Lysette, Phil LaMarr, Tracie Thoms, Malcolm Barrett, and Kevin Smith—the podcast demonstrated that high-quality storytelling is possible even with modest budgets. Creator Jonathan Pezza expressed gratitude for the recognition and the enthusiastic audience response.
International Film, Series & Podcast Awards
The festival’s International Awards celebrated creative excellence from over 30 countries, recognizing innovation in fiction, pilot episodes, actual play podcasts, and more. The event reinforced LA WEBFEST’s role as a global platform for creators to showcase their work and connect with key industry players.
The coveted Best Web Series of All Genres award went to the Swiss series STRYX, praised for its cinematic quality and originality.
LA WEBFEST’s Legacy of Talent Discovery
LA WEBFEST is renowned for launching creative careers. Past alumni include Issa Rae (Awkward Black Girl, Insecure) and Yvonne Orji, discovered by founder Michael Ajakwe Jr.
In 2013’s Grand Prize winner, Chris Jericho (But I’m Chris Jericho), returned in 2025 with Terrifier 3, building on his success and deepening ties with the festival community.
Leadership and Global Reach
Led by Festival Director Young Man Kang since 2022, LA WEBFEST has continued to thrive as a leader in digital media celebration. He is supported by Honorary President Jean-Michel Albert, founder of Marseille Webfest (France), and Vice President Jazmen Darnell Brown. And Board Member Rich Halke, along with New board member Rob Edwards (Captain America: Brave New World) brings additional prestige and experience to the leadership team.
Looking Ahead
In his closing remarks, Festival Director Young Man Kang highlighted the overwhelming participation from podcast creators:
“This year, over 70% of podcast creators attended—an incredible turnout. So next year, we’ll be adding more award categories, including Best Podcast of All Genres.”
With such growing engagement and international recognition, LA WEBFEST remains committed to expanding its platform for creators and pushing the boundaries of digital storytelling.
For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
LA WEBFEST Team
lawebfest2009@gmail.com
Media Contact
Organization: LA WEBFEST
Contact Person: Team
Website: https://www.lawebfest.net
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City: Los Angeles
State: CA
Country: United States
Release Id: 08052527392