23 Years Celebrating Independent Film
The Atlanta Underground Film Festival has been running for more than two decades, making it one of the oldest underground film festivals in the United States. That history matters. AUFF has stayed alive because the films are real, the audiences are real, and the festival never tried to fit into the mainstream.
AUFF has always been a home for films that sit outside the usual lanes. Work that pushes, experiments, or takes risks. If your film doesn’t fit the safe categories or follows its own path, this is where it belongs.
The atmosphere at AUFF is relaxed and welcoming. The screenings are focused, the crowd pays attention, and the environment makes it easy to talk and connect. People hang out, share ideas, and end up spending the whole weekend together. The parties and late-night meetups turn AUFF into more than a schedule of films. It feels like a small community where everyone is rooting for each other.
The festival brings together shorts, features, and everything in between. It’s a place where indie filmmakers and artists can show their work without pressure, meet others who understand the process, and be part of something that has been going strong for more than twenty years.
AUFF isn’t a trend or a theme. It’s a long-running space for films that fall outside the mainstream and deserve an audience. If your work has that edge or that voice, AUFF is a good fit.
Submit your film and be part of the 23rd Annual AUFF, taking place August 6 - 9, 2026.
FESTIVAL DISCOUNT - USE CODE AUFF25 FOR 25% OFF YOUR ENTRY
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
Picked by the crowd. The film that hit hardest with our audience.
Jury Award
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.
