Atlanta Underground Film Festival Submissions

Atlanta Underground Film Festival 2027 Deadlines

Opening Date: September 1, 2026

Early Deadline #1: October 31, 2026

Early Deadline #2: November 30, 2026

Early Deadline #3: December 31, 2026

Regular Deadline #1: January 31, 2027

Regular Deadline #2: February 28, 2027

Regular Deadline #3: March 31, 2027

Late Deadline #1: April 30, 2027

Late Deadline #2: May 24, 2027

Late Deadline #3: June 14, 2027

Final Deadline: July 5, 2027

Notification Date: July 9, 2027 (or before)

Festival Dates: August 12-15, 2027

AUFF Categories:

Narrative Feature

Documentary Feature

Made in Georgia

Narrative Short

Documentary Short

Comedy Short

Dark Comedy Short

Drama Short

Dramedy Short

Sci-Fi Short

Horror / Thriller Short

Horror Comedy Short

Experimental Short

Queer Short

Music Video / Musical Short

Animated Short

Mockumentary Short

Future Cult Classic Short

Other Short

Click the FilmFreeway link for more info about submission fees or visit our page here

Entry fees are non-refundable.

All films must be submitted through FilmFreeway with a secure online screener.

We accept short and feature-length films in all genres. Shorts are under 44 minutes.

Films that have screened at other festivals or are available online are still eligible.  

Selected filmmakers will be notified through FilmFreeway. Please respond promptly.

Final files and materials must be delivered at least two weeks prior to the festival.

We do not pay rental fees for submitted work that is programmed.
 

We welcome Georgia-based filmmakers and films shot in Georgia. These will be considered for Best Local Film.   

Best Feature Film
Awarded to a feature that captures the raw, fearless spirit of underground cinema.

Best Short Film
Given to a short that stands out with a clear voice and original style.

Best Director
For a filmmaker whose direction brings the film to life in a memorable way.

AUFF Spirit Award
For the film that best reflects the DIY energy and risk-taking at the heart of underground film.

Underground Visionary
For a filmmaker with a strong voice and fresh perspective we want to see more of.

Mindbender
For the film that pushes boundaries and takes the audience somewhere strange or unexpected.

Best Emerging Filmmaker
Awarded to a new filmmaker whose work shows real promise and a strong point of view.

Best Local Short Film
For a standout short made in Georgia or by a Georgia-based filmmaker.

Best Local Feature Film
For a standout feature made in Georgia or by a Georgia-based filmmaker.

Audience Award (short and feature)
Picked by the crowd. The film that hit hardest with our audience.

Jury Award (short and feature)
Chosen by the festival jury, this award goes to a film that stood out for its craft, vision, or impact. Something that truly deserves recognition.

Winners in each category will receive a custom crystal trophy to mark their achievement.

Entry fee waivers are only offered to festival alumni. If you screened with us before, contact us for a fee waiver code.