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 the outstanding feature film of the festival.
Best Short Film
Awarded to the outstanding short film of the festival.
Best Documentary
Presented to the documentary that stands out for its storytelling, insight, and craft.
Best Director - Feature
Presented to the director with the strongest vision and execution in a feature film.
Best Director - Short
Presented to the director with the strongest vision and execution in a short film.
Innovation Award
Presented to the film that shows exceptional creativity in storytelling or filmmaking.
Impact Award
Presented to the film that leaves the strongest lasting impression.
Best Emerging Filmmaker
Awarded to a new filmmaker whose work shows exceptional promise.
Best Local Feature Film
Presented to the outstanding feature made in Georgia or by a Georgia based filmmaker.
Best Local Short Film
Presented to the outstanding short made in Georgia or by a Georgia based filmmaker.
Audience Award
Chosen by the audience as their favorite film of the festival.
Jury Award
Chosen by the festival jury to recognize exceptional achievement in filmmaking.
Winners in each category will receive a custom crystal trophy to mark their achievement.
