Crystal Heart Award
The Crystal Heart Award is given every year to a selected group of independent filmmakers. Dramatic and documentary films of any length are eligible for the Crystal Heart Award. All Crystal Heart Award winning films will be screened at this year’s Festival and the visionary from each film will be present to accept the award at the Crystal Heart Awards Gala. A $50,000 Grand Prize for Dramatic Feature is given during the Festival.

Jimmy Stewart Memorial Crystal Heart Award
The Jimmy Stewart Memorial Crystal Heart Award is given every year to a selected group of student filmmakers. Dramatic and documentary films of any length made by a student of any age are eligible for the Jimmy Stewart Memorial Crystal Heart Award. All Jimmy Stewart Memorial Crystal Heart Award winners will be present at the Crystal Heart Awards Gala to accept the award.

Saab Pioneering Spirit Award
The Saab Pioneering Spirit Award is given to an individual for inspiring work within the film industry and his or her contribution to the Heartland Film Festival.

Truly Moving Picture Award
Throughout the year, Heartland recognizes theatrically released films with the Truly Moving Picture Award. The award is given prior to the film’s release with the goal of encouraging moviegoers to support these films, especially on opening weekend. A representative from each Truly Moving Picture Award film is present at the Crystal Heart Awards Gala to receive the award.

Truly Moving Sound Award
Truly Moving Picture Award and Crystal Heart Award winning dramatic features are eligible for the Truly Moving Sound Award. The award celebrates films that have shown excellence in sound as a storytelling element. This award is announced during the Crystal Heart Awards Gala.