Spotlight Film Awards: Celebrating Exceptional Storytelling
Shining a light on the best in independent filmmaking.
Atlanta Spotlight Film Awards
Spotlight Short Film Awards
The Atlanta Spotlight Short Film Awards celebrate the best in short filmmaking, from compelling dramas and comedies to experimental and genre-defying works. Each year, we seek out the most creative and impactful short films, recognizing filmmakers who push boundaries and explore new storytelling techniques. Whether it’s a narrative-driven short, an art-house piece, or a thought-provoking experimental film, the Spotlight Short Film Awards aims to showcase the diverse range of voices shaping the future of cinema.
Spotlight Documentary Film Awards
The Atlanta Spotlight Documentary Awards honor the power of documentary storytelling. From investigative journalism and historical reflections to intimate personal stories and environmental issues, we recognize filmmakers who use the documentary medium to inform, inspire, and challenge audiences. The Spotlight Documentary Film Awards seeks to amplify voices that bring attention to important societal topics, uncover untold stories, and ignite meaningful conversations.
Spotlight Film Awards End of the Year Showdown
Spotlight Showdown held December 6, 2025
The Spotlight Showdown is the ultimate celebration of excellence, bringing together the best of the best. Join us December 6, 2025, as our Platinum-winning films, documentaries, and winning scripts will compete in an exclusive end-of-year event featuring:
- Screenings of standout projects from all the film competitions.
- Live readings of award-winning screenplays.
- Special recognition for the Spotlight Project of the Year, chosen by an esteemed panel of judges.
- Event at at Limelight Theater. More details announced soon!
Spotlight Film Awards Winners
Winners Receive
Winners in each film competition receive:
- Custom Laurels: High-resolution laurels to promote your award.
- Digital Certificate of Excellence: Personalized recognition of your achievement.
- Industry Exposure: Announcements to our extensive network of industry professionals, including festival organizers and distributors.
- Online Visibility: Links to your film, trailer, or project website from our platform.
Exclusive Perks for Top Winners in our film competitions:
- Platinum Award winners are guaranteed screenings at one or more Atlanta Film Series festivals and compete at the end of the year in December for the title of Best Film in various categories.
- Gold and Platinum winners have the opportunity to feature their work on the upcoming FestFlix TV, connecting with a global audience of film enthusiasts and professionals.
- Spotlight Profile: A dedicated page featuring your bio, photo, and links to your work.
Winners in our Screenplay Competition recieve:
- Cash prize of $200 to the winning projects.
- Two All-Access Pass (valued at $250 each) to attend all five Atlanta Film Series festivals, including VIP access to all screenings, mixers, and after-parties.
- Trophy and digital certificate.
- Feature on FestFlix TV and Atlanta Film Series websites.
- Free submission to a future Atlanta Film Series event.
