Atlanta Spotlight Film Awards

The Event

The Atlanta Spotlight Film Awards is a distinguished international competition honoring the most outstanding short films of the year. Dedicated to showcasing cinematic excellence, we recognize original storytelling, bold creativity, and technical achievement across all genres.

Each year, a select group of exceptional films is chosen to compete live for top honors before an audience of film lovers, industry professionals, and fellow creators. Winners are celebrated with custom crystal trophies, online recognition, and promotional support that elevates their visibility within the global film community.

This is more than an award—it's a platform to connect, inspire, and shine a spotlight on the visionary storytellers shaping the future of independent film.

Award Categories

Best Narrative
Recognizing excellence in storytelling and direction in a short fiction film.
Best Documentary
Honoring a powerful and compelling non-fiction short.
Best Drama
Awarding emotionally resonant, character-driven storytelling.
Best Comedy
Celebrating humor, originality, and comedic craft.
Best Horror
Recognizing the most thrilling and chilling short film of the year.
Best Animation
Showcasing exceptional artistry and technique in animated storytelling.
Best Music Video
Honoring visual creativity and cinematic storytelling through music.
Best Experimental/AI
Recognizing innovation in form, structure, or the use of AI tools in storytelling.
Best Micro Short
Celebrating the strongest film under five minutes in length.
Best Georgia Film
Honoring outstanding work created in Georgia or by Georgia-based filmmakers.
Jury Award
Selected by the judging panel for overall excellence and artistic achievement.
Spotlight Achievement
Awarded to a standout film that defies easy categorization but delivers lasting impact.

What Winners Receive

Winners of the Atlanta Spotlight Film Awards receive:

Custom Crystal Trophy
A beautifully engraved award presented live on stage to each category winner.
Official Winner Laurels
Professionally designed laurels to showcase your achievement across platforms and promotional materials.
Recognition in Press & Media
Winners are highlighted on our website, social channels, and press outreach following the event.
Filmmaker Spotlight Feature
Select winners may be profiled in a post-event spotlight, including interviews or behind-the-scenes promotion.
Long-Term Visibility
Winning films become part of our awards archive, giving lasting recognition among fellow filmmakers, programmers, and audiences.

Winning at the Atlanta Spotlight Film Awards isn’t just a trophy, it’s a mark of excellence, a boost to your credibility, and a moment that can move your career forward.

How Films Are Judged

All submissions are reviewed by a panel of experienced film professionals, including:

Independent filmmakers
Festival programmers
Industry consultants
Critics and past award winners

Films are judged on originality, storytelling, emotional impact, direction, editing, cinematography, sound, and overall artistic merit.

Atlanta Spotlight Film Awards

Join us Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Limelight Theater in Atlanta, Georgia