In recent years, Atlanta has become one of the most significant cities in America for the film industry. Major blockbusters from the Marvel franchise to the Fast and Furious franchise have turned their attention to the city, and the film industry is burgeoning. Atlanta has always been a city filled with incredible artists and film lovers, and it is now becoming one of the eminent American movie cities. One long-running event that showcases Atlanta’s solidified status as a major movie city is the Atlanta Film Festival, which is returning to the city just in time for spring.
The Atlanta Film Festival, or ATLFF, will occur at several theaters across the city. However, its primary location will be at Plaza Theatre, a highly-regarded movie hotspot that is Atlanta’s oldest operating cinema. This year, the film festival will take place from April 21st-May 1st and feature works from incredibly talented rising filmmakers. There will be a large variety of different movies shown, with something for every taste.
The Atlanta Film Festival has gone on for over 45 years, beginning in 1976. It is intended to spotlight diverse creators, with special attention paid to LGBTQ films, Latin American films, Black films, films from female directors, and films from the American Southeast. This tradition of highlighting diversity is very much in-line with the city of Atlanta, a diverse city known for driving social change.
Because of its reputation as an event that highlights creators that may not have a major platform, numerous Hollywood legends have gotten their start at this event. The most prominent creator that can attribute the rise of their career to the ATLFF is Spike Lee, whose first film was first screened at ATLFF and won the jury prize. Other famed Hollywood creators who had their first works played at ATLFF include David O. Russell, Robert Rodriguez, and RuPaul.
The ATLFF will draw in a massive crowd, typically bringing nearly 30,000 people to celebrate the spirit of cinema. It has a wide array of film types, including independent, international, documentaries, animated, shorts, and so much more. It is an Academy Award-qualifying event in three different categories, meaning winners of major categories at this event go on to do big things. It will often feature surprise celebrity guests ranging from Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam to Josh Brolin and Walton Goggins.
There are five primary spotlight tracks where the festival highlights different creators. There is their Noire track, which highlights black filmmakers, the New Maverick track, focused on women and gender non-conforming directors and leads, and the Pink Peach track centered around LGBTQ stories and perspectives. The Cinemás track is focused on Latin American stories and perspectives, and the Georgia track is for homegrown films and filmmakers.
There are several different purchasing options for those looking to attend this event. If you can’t be in Atlanta, there are Virtual passes, including the Virtual Film Access Pass, for $75. There is the Film Badge for in-person attendees, allowing for unlimited access to in-person film screenings, for $250, and the Creative Conference Badge, allowing access to the panels and workshops of the event, for $130. An All-Access Badge can be bought for $350, allowing access to all that the event has to offer.
The ATLFF has more than just screenings. The Creative Conference is a key component of this event, where there are hands-on workshops and educational seminars. There will be important panel discussions held on various topics, and attendees can interface with filmmakers and actors at the Q and A sessions. There will also be various parties and galas, so bring your finest clothing and prepare for a glitzy occasion.
The ATLFF is one of America’s biggest and most highly-regarded film festivals. It is a great occasion with a lot to offer, and movie lovers will rejoice at the unique selection of films screened. There will be something for every taste with such a massive variety of films. If you are someone in the Atlanta area that is a lover of cinema, this event promises to be a special gathering of many top emerging creators. Tickets are on sale right now, so act fast to secure a spot at this exciting Atlanta occasion.
