The SXSW Film Festival is an annual event held in mid-March in Austin, Texas, as part of the larger South by Southwest conglomeration of parallel film, interactive media, and music festivals and conferences. Established in 1987, it provides a dynamic environment for the convergence of talent, audiences, and industry professionals, emphasizing independent film. The festival features various programming categories, including Narrative and Documentary Competitions, Headliners, Spotlights, and Short Film Programs, and honors films with jury and audience awards. It has become a significant platform for premiering a diverse range of films and television projects.