The film Industry is growing in Athens–but not without the Film Community! The 1st Annual Athens Film Festival will celebrate the art of cinema and showcase a diverse range of films from talented filmmakers around the world. Taking place in the thriving city of Athens, Georgia, our festival is a testament to the growing film industry in the region.

Georgia has become a hub for film production in recent years, with major studios and productions flocking to the state for its production opportunities and skilled workforce. Athens, in particular, has seen a surge in film-related activity, with a growing number of filmmakers and production companies calling this city home. The Athens Film Festival aims to showcase this dynamic and exciting industry, and provide a platform for local and international filmmakers to share their work with the world.

Our program features films from various genres, including drama, comedy, documentary, and animation, all curated to provide a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. We believe that films have the power to connect, inspire, and educate people, and our festival aims to create a space where people can come together to explore diverse perspectives and experiences through the art of cinema.

Whether you're a film enthusiast, a casual moviegoer, or simply looking for a fun and engaging experience, the Athens Film Festival has something for everyone. Join us for a weekend of film screenings, discussions, and special events that will inspire, challenge, and entertain you. We can't wait to see you there!

Awards & Prizes

Awards from our sponsors for various categories include cash prizes (amounts to be determined), agency consultation, script writing software, and a variety of digital subscriptions.

Awards will also include a coveted Athens-made trophy and cash prize for the following categories:
- Athens Choice Feature Film
- Athens Choice Short Film
- Narrative Feature Competition
- Narrative Short Competition
- Foreign Short Film Competition
- Foreign Feature Film Competition
- Documentary Competition
- Animated/Experimental/Music video Competition
- TV/Web-Series Competition
- Student Film Competition
- ScriptMother Screenplay Competition - Short Film
- ScriptMother Screenplay Competition - TV Series
- ScriptMother Screenplay Competition - Feature Film

Also, all OFFICIAL SELECTIONS for the Athens Film Festival will receive an amazing prize package!

Rules & Terms

1) REQUIREMENTS

• Films completed within the past 3 years will be considered.
• 'Works in progress' will also be considered.
• If selected, all submissions must grant permission for the following:
- At least one in person screening between the dates of October 12th-15th, or during the dates of the film festival, which may go beyond October 15th.
- Permission to mention and promote your film through any and all marketing efforts for the Athens Film Festival.
- Athens Film Festival has the right to use a trailer, stills, pics and posters for promotional purposes in various platforms, including social media, websites, etc.
• We consider films regardless of their premiere status. If your film has appeared or been selected at another festival, it is still eligible for consideration.
• All submissions must be received by the final deadline - August 15, 2023.
• Non-English films must be subtitled.
• Closed Captioning is encouraged!
• Selected films MUST provide a Digital Cinema Package (DCP) or video file (.mov or .mp4) in order to be screened. Film title MUST be clearly labelled on the hard drive.

2) DATES

• The 1st annual Athens Film Festival will take place from October 12th-15th. Depending on number of selections, the festival dates may go beyond the 15th.

3) AWARDS AND PRIZES

Athens Audience Award:
• Athens Choice Feature Film
• Athens Choice Short Film

Jury Prizes:
• Narrative Feature
• Narrative Short
• Foreign Feature Film
• Foreign Short Film
• Documentary
• Animated/Experimental/Music video
• TV/Web Series
• Student Film
• Screenplay Competition - Short Film
• Screenplay Competition - TV Series
• Screenplay Competition - Feature Film

4) CONTENT DISCLAIMER
• The First Annual Athens Film Festival will accept and consider any and all films submissions regardless of content or subject matter, with the exception of egregious violence or illegal content.

5) AGREEMENT
By submitting to the Athens Film Festival, you confirm that you hold all necessary rights for the submission of this film/video to Athens Film Festival and that all rights and clearances have been made. This film is neither subject to nor is threatened by any litigation. You hold Athens Film Festival harmless from damage to, or loss of any or all materials en route to, from or otherwise at the festival. You assume all legal responsibilities therein.