Directed in 2026 at ESRA Côte d’Azur by Elisa Bardoux, the graduation short film *Homonculus* received two awards at the Independent Shorts Awards in Los Angeles in October 2026. This marks a double international recognition for the film, which had already won three awards from the ESRA Professional Jury in Cannes.
Two International Awards at the Independent Shorts Awards
The short film *Homonculus*, directed by Elisa Bardoux, a student at ESRA Côte d’Azur, continues to garner recognition, having won two awards in October 2026 at the Independent Shorts Awards in Los Angeles, United States.
The film won awards in two categories:
- Gold Award – Student Short: Gold Medal in the Best Student Short Film category.
- Runner-Up – Best Short of the Season: second place in the Best Short Film of the Season category.
These two awards recognize the creative and production work carried out as part of this final-year project.
They also mark a new milestone in Homonculus's journey, as the band is now gaining recognition beyond France's borders.
A film that has already won an award from the ESRA Professional Jury
Even before receiving this international recognition, *Homonculus* had already enjoyed great success at the ESRA Côte d’Azur Professional Jury event, held on June 19, 2026, in Cannes.
On that occasion, the short film won three awards:
- Best Picture Award
- Best Cinematography Award
- Best Sound Award
These awards highlight various aspects of the work that went into the film, from its artistic conception to its technical execution.
A few months later, the awards she received in Los Angeles built on that initial success and brought new visibility to Elisa Bardoux’s work.
Capstone projects geared toward the professional world
At ESRA, filmmaking is an essential component of the film and audiovisual program.
Throughout their program, students develop their skills through hands-on projects, allowing them to gain experience in the various stages of filmmaking: writing, preparation, shooting, and post-production.
Graduation films represent the culmination of this work. They allow students to apply the skills they have acquired during their studies and to present their work to industry professionals.
The Journey of Homonculusillustrates the opportunities available to these student productions, which can continue to be screened at international festivals and competitions.
ESRA Côte d’Azur: Supporting the Film Talents of Tomorrow
Through its “ Programs ” and educational projects, ESRA Côte d’Azur supports students in developing their artistic and technical skills, while helping them gain insight into the realities of the film industry.
The awards won by Homonculus demonstrate the potential of these student projects and their ability to resonate with professional juries, both in France and internationally.
Congratulations to Elisa Bardoux and the entire film crew on these awards!
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