A Learner's Choice
2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards were presented by Film Independent on 22 April 2021. The best independent films and television series of 2020 has been honored in the 36th Spirit Award ceremony.
Best Feature – Nomadland (PRODUCERS: Mollye Asher, Dan Javey, Frances McDormand, Peter Spears, Chloé Zhao)
Best Director – Chloé Zhao, Nomadland
Best Female Lead – Carey Mulligan, Promising Young Woman
Best Male Lead – Riz Ahmed, Sound of Metal
Best Supporting Female – Yuh-Jung Youn, Minari
Best Supporting Male – Paul Raci, Sound of Metal
Best Screenplay – Emerald Fennell, Promising Young Woman
Best Editing – Chloé Zhao, Nomadland
Best Documentary Feature – Crip Camp (DIRECTORS/PRODUCERS: Jim LeBrecht, Nicole Newnham PRODUCER: Sara Bolder)
Best Cinematography – Joshua James Richards, Nomadland
Best First Feature – Sound of Metal (DIRECTOR: Darius Marder)
Best First Screenplay – Andy Siara, Palm Springs
Best International Film – Quo Vadis, Aida? (Bosnia and Herzegovina DIRECTOR: Jasmila Žbanić)
Producers Award – Gerry Kim
John Cassavetes Award – Residue (WRITER/DIRECTOR: Merawi Gerima)
Robert Altman Award – One Night in Miami… (DIRECTOR: Regina King)
Someone to Watch Award – Ekwa Msangi, Farewell Amor
Truer than Fiction Award – Elegance Bratton, Pier Kids
Film Independent is a nonprofit organization, recognizing the finest achievements of American independent filmmakers.