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ATL DOC - Atlanta Documentary Film Festival
atl doc
ATL DOC: The Atlanta Documentary Film Festival
Two Decades of Docs That Matter March 20–22, 2026.
After more than 20 years of showcasing powerful documentaries, Atlanta Docufest is evolving into ATL DOC, a fresh, modern identity that celebrates the future of documentary filmmaking.
Now in its 21st year, ATL DOC continues to honor real stories told with purpose. We celebrate the filmmakers who bring them to life with vision, craft, and heart.
Whether your film uncovers injustice, sparks cultural dialogue, or offers a deeply personal perspective, ATL DOC is built to recognize work that informs, inspires, and stays with audiences long after the credits roll.
Why Submit to ATL DOC
• Live screenings in a vibrant Atlanta venue with passionate, engaged audiences
• Awards in key categories including Best Feature, Best Short, Best Director, and Audience Choice
• Trusted programming focused on powerful stories, unique access, and fresh perspectives
• A filmmaker-first experience with Q&As, promotional support, and opportunities to connect
• 21 years of credibility as a documentary-focused festival presented by the team behind the Atlanta Film Series
We welcome feature and short documentaries from around the world, including investigative, personal, political, artistic, environmental, and experimental work.
Enter Your Doc
Be part of the 21st Annual ATL DOC, March 20–22, 2026. Let your story be heard where stories matter most.
ATL DOC celebrates indie filmmakers
Atlanta DOC Award Categories
ATL DOC honors outstanding documentary films and filmmakers with our signature crystal trophies, awarded in the following core categories:
Best Feature Documentary – Top honor for a feature-length documentary.
Best Short Documentary – Recognizes excellence in a short documentary.
Best Local Documentary – For a standout Georgia-made documentary.
Best Student Documentary – Honors exceptional student work.
Best Director - Feature – For outstanding direction in a feature documentary.
Best Director - Short - For outstanding direction in a short documentary.
Jury Award - Feature – Selected by the festival jury for overall excellence in a feature.
Jury Award - Short – Selected by the festival jury for overall excellence in a short.
Audience Choice Award - Feature – Chosen by festival audiences for favorite feature.
Audience Choice Award - Short – Chosen by festival audiences for favorite short.
Documentary Spirit Award – For a film that embodies the heart of ATL DOC.
Emerging Voice Award – For a rising filmmaker showing strong potential.
Visionary Filmmaker Award – For an original and bold creative vision.
Innovative Filmmaking Award – For creativity and experimentation in form.
Join us for all of our Atlanta Film Festivals
