IndieWire Celebrates the Mavericks and Visionaries Behind the Best Films of 2025: Check Out All the Photos

Despite an increasingly crowded awards season, IndieWire Honors has carved out a distinctive space. The event blends heartfelt speeches about the future of independent cinema with moments of sheer joy, bringing together emerging talents and the artists who inspired them. Its the kind of gathering where casual encounterslike a hoodie-wearing Adam Sandler congratulating the Best Actor winner from Cannesfeel perfectly at home.

The 2025 winter edition of IndieWire Honors took place on Thursday, December 4, at NYA West in Los Angeles, California. Comedian Vinny Thomas hosted the evening, which showcased a wide array of honorees representing the pinnacle of filmmaking craft.

Adam Sandler received the Vanguard Award for his acclaimed role in Noah Baumbachs Jay Kelly. Mona Fastvold earned the Visionary Award for co-writing and directing The Testament of Ann Lee, one of IndieWires standout films of the year. Jacob Elordi and prosthetics expert Mike Hill shared the Wavelength Award for their work on Frankenstein.

Kristen Stewart was honored with the Maverick Award for her feature directorial debut on The Chronology of Water. Wagner Moura received the Performance Award for his role in The Secret Agent. The Spark Award went to Chris Appelhans, Maggie Kang, and EJAE for transforming KPop Demon Hunters into a cultural sensation.

Chase Infiniti earned the Breakthrough Award for her debut film performance in One Battle After Another. Ryan White was recognized with the Magnify Award for his documentary Come See Me in the Good Light. Nina Hoss received the Spotlight Award for her standout performance in Nia DaCostas Hedda. Cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw was awarded the Impact Award for her work on a blockbuster directed by Ryan Coogler, becoming the first woman to shoot a film in large-format IMAX.

The night was a celebration of creativity, dedication, and the joy of independent filmmaking. Every moment underscored the passion and talent driving the industry forward. Browse the full gallery to see all the memorable moments from the evening.

Author: Natalie Monroe