Atlanta Spotlight Film Festival Submissions

All submissions go through FilmFreeway. It’s the only way we accept entries, and it keeps everything organized for both you and us.

Spotlight is only for short films. Anything 30 minutes or less is eligible. Narrative, documentary, comedy, horror, animation, experimental, micro shorts, student work, music videos, and shorts made in Georgia are all welcome.

No. We don’t require premieres. Your film can screen anywhere before Spotlight.

Yes. Spotlight is an end-of-year showcase for films that currently on or wrapping up a festival run. As long as your film screened, placed, or earned an official selection at a recognized festival during the year, you’re good.

No. Spotlight celebrates films that already proved themselves during the year. Think of it as one last big screen moment and awards presentation before the season ends.

Yes. Every selected film screens in front of a live audience at Limelight Theater in Atlanta.

Yes. Every selected film is automatically nominated for awards in its category. Winners are announced at the live ceremony and receive a custom Spotlight crystal trophy. View our awards

Of course. Attendance is not required. If you win, we’ll ship your trophy. International shipping rates apply.

We can only offer waivers to festival alumni. If you've been a part of Spotlight within the last decade, contact us for a waiver.

Yes. Each film must be submitted separately.

FilmFreeway’s upload system accepts most standard formats. If selected, we will request a high quality MP4 or MOV file for screening.

Yes. Just make sure it includes English subtitles.

Notifications are sent on the date listed on our FilmFreeway page. If your film is selected, we’ll email you with next steps and screening info. We try to notifiy selected filmmakers before the notification date.

Yes. You can upload new versions in FilmFreeway until we begin programming. The final selected film must match the run time listed on your FilmFreeway page.

  If your film isn’t selected, we’ll include your score in the notification email. 

As long as it screened at a recognized festival during the current year, it’s eligible.

A screening in front of a real audience, a filmmaker-centered awards night, strong community energy, and the chance to close out your festival year on a high note.