Atlanta to Host the 49th Annual Film Festival

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Crowd gathering at the Atlanta Film Festival 2025

News Summary

The 49th annual Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) is set to take place from April 24 to May 4, 2025, celebrating cinema at venues including the Plaza Theatre and Tara Theatre. With over 6,000 film submissions, the festival highlights local stories and international talent, featuring special events like the premiere of ‘Color Book’ and the documentary ‘The Games in Black & White’. The Creative Conference will also return, offering 46 educational sessions for filmmakers. Ticket sales begin on March 26, 2025, as excitement builds for this artistic celebration in Atlanta.

Atlanta Buzzes with Excitement for the 49th Annual Film Festival

The vibrant city of Atlanta is gearing up for a cinematic celebration like no other, as the 49th annual Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) prepares to roll out its dynamic lineup from April 24 to May 4, 2025. Screenings will primarily take place at the iconic Plaza Theatre and Tara Theatre, with a flurry of additional events scattered across the city.

A Staggering Array of Films

This year, the festival received an impressive 6,000+ film submissions, showcasing talented filmmakers across the globe. Audiences can expect a diverse selection of 40 films directly tied to Georgia, highlighting local stories and talent, along with a total of films from 35 different countries. This eclectic mix promises to deliver captivating narratives and powerful visuals.

Kickoff with a Local Touch

The festival will kick off with its Opening Night film, “Color Book,” directed by Atlanta native David Fortune. This heartfelt story follows a father and son with Down syndrome on an adventure to an Atlanta Braves game, encapsulating the spirit of local culture.

Expect to see cast members Will Catlett and Jeremiah Alexander Daniels at the event, with Daniels bringing additional buzz as a nominee for an NAACP Image Award for his performance in the film. The spotlight is certainly bright for Fortune, who has earned recognition as one of Variety’s 2025 Directors to Watch.

Documentary Highlights

One of the event’s highlights includes the much-anticipated documentary “The Games in Black & White,” set to premiere on April 26, 2025 at the Rialto Center for the Arts. This documentary delves into the significant legacies of Billy Payne and Andrew Young regarding Atlanta’s successful bid for the 1996 Olympics. Notable figures, including Olympians and former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, will make appearances and are expected to attend the premiere.

Creative Conference Returns

The festival isn’t just about films. The 15th annual Creative Conference will run from April 29 through May 2, 2025, at the Tara Theatre. The conference will offer 46 educational sessions, featuring 36 in-person and 10 virtual panels aimed at enlightening aspiring filmmakers and industry veterans alike.

Mix of Formats for All Movie Lovers

In a nod to evolving viewing habits, most films in the festival lineup will be available for online viewing after their in-person premieres, providing audiences with a unique blend of both in-person and virtual screenings. Individual screening tickets go on sale on March 26, 2025, while festival badges are already available for purchase, allowing film enthusiasts to enjoy the full ATLFF experience.

Stay Updated

Film lovers can get a sneak peek of this year’s offerings by checking the festival’s website, where the complete lineup of selected films is ready for preview. The anticipation builds as Atlanta prepares for a season that promises to be filled with inspiration, creativity, and a celebration of the art of film.