Red Poppy Awards recognise important stories
Red Poppy Awards for Best Short Film, Best Feature Film and Best Animation were presented at the Opening Night of the Red Poppy Film Festival at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, before a screening of the recipients’ moving stories.
Thank You for Your Generous Support
There are many we wish to thank for their generous support — without whom this Red Poppy Film Festival simply would not be possible. Your commitment to storytelling, culture, and community impact is what brings this event to life.
Long Tan
Australia’s Battle of Long Tan // Documentary // 2025 // Australia
An episode from the Australian Army Battle Honours Series.
The Battle of Long Tan was one of the most defining battles fought by Australian forces during the Vietnam War. Highlighting the courage, teamwork, and endurance of the Delta Company, and their supporting units, this is a story that has become a key part of Australia’s military history.
Signalman
Signalman // Animated Short // 2026 // UK
Director: Brian Colby
Inspired by a true story, Signalman follows a young sailor aboard the USS Opponent during the final months of World War II. As the war nears its end, the longing for home grows alongside a heavy uncertainty regarding his brother’s whereabouts.
Red Poppy Film Festival 6-8 March 2026 at AGNSW
Our 2026 Red Poppy Film Festival runs from 6-8 March with unmissable stories of courage, resilience and sacrifice. Entry is free to past or serving ADF members. Secure your complimentary or general admission seats now!
New Life
New Life // 3min // Animation // 2022 // Australia
Director: Mark Bernard
Following a young person shaped by war and personal adversity, learning to cope with pain, and searching for a way forward. A story about healing, hope, and the power of a new beginning.
Lee
Lee // 117min // Docudrama // 2023 // UK
Director: Ellen Kurras
War correspondent Lee Miller travels to the front lines of World War II to embark on a mission to uncover the hidden truths of the Third Reich. But in the wake of betrayal, a reckoning will come over the truths of her own past.
The Gift of a Second Wind
The Gift of a Second Wind // 52min // Documentary // 2024 // France
Director: Laurent Etchamendy
The film addresses a topic of great human and social impact through the lens of sport: the physical and psychological rehabilitation of soldiers wounded in operations abroad once they return home.
Sound of the Somme
Sound of the Somme // 12min // Short Drama // 2025 // Belgium
Director: Michaël Vermaercke
Sound of the Somme tells the true story of the last day in the journal of 20-year-old bagpiper James C Richardson that awarded him the Victoria Cross, for his bravery and action during the Battle of the Somme in WWI.
Wet Soil
Wet Soil // 9min // Animated Short // 2026 // USA
Director/Writer: Jon Brovina
Set in the final years of World War II, the story follows a young soldier whose fate hangs in the balance after a battlefield incident. As a grieving mother sets out to confront him, their meeting exposes the raw and complicated truths left behind by war.