ShortsTV & NFDC Announce Oscar Qualifying Theatrical Run for The Paper Sky at CINELOUNGE® TIBURON
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LOS ANGELES - Californer -- ShortsTV and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) today announced a landmark achievement for Creative Minds of Tomorrow (CMOT), an initiative developed by ShortsTV for the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India. The Paper Sky, winner of the 2025 CMOT Award, will receive an official theatrical screening at CINELOUNGE® TIBURON in Los Angeles, California. This engagement qualifies the film for Oscar consideration, marking a historic first for CMOT and a major step forward in its mission to elevate emerging Indian filmmakers to global recognition.

Having successfully completed five years, CMOT has evolved into one of India's most dynamic and influential platforms for discovering and launching emerging talent in filmmaking careers. The programme has steadily expanded its reach, strengthened industry partnerships, and consistently showcased bold, original voices. This Oscar‑qualifying run for The Paper Sky stands as the strongest validation yet of the calibre of India's emerging talent and the CMOT initiative.

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The Paper Sky, celebrated for its poetic narrative and striking visual craft, captivated the CMOT jury in 2025 and continues to resonate with audiences and industry partners. Its theatrical engagement at CINELOUNGE® TIBURON underscores the shared commitment of ShortsTV and NFDC to championing exceptional storytelling and creating meaningful pathways for emerging filmmakers.

Quotes

ShortsTV: "The Paper Sky is the first Creative Minds of Tomorrow film to be released theatrically and achieve Oscar eligibility.   Over five years, CMOT has grown into a powerful launchpad for bold new voices with this theatrical release proving that Indian short‑form storytelling is ready to compete at the highest global level. ShortsTV is committed to building real, tangible opportunities for emerging filmmakers, and this achievement reflects the strength and ambition of the CMOT community."

National Film Development Corporation (NFDC): "NFDC is proud to support The Paper Sky as it takes this significant step toward Oscar consideration. Our collaboration with ShortsTV through Creative Minds of Tomorrow has created a vital platform for emerging talent, and this milestone reinforces the importance of nurturing short films as a vibrant creative space. We look forward to many more CMOT filmmakers reaching international audiences and acclaim."

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As CMOT moves into its next phase, this achievement highlights the programme's growing momentum and reaffirms the shared vision of ShortsTV, NFDC, and the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting: to empower new voices, strengthen international collaboration, and build a globally recognised platform for short‑form cinema.

https://www.shorts.tv