Atlanta Documentary Film Festival (ATL DOC)
Atlanta Documentary Film Festival
ATL DOC is Georgia’s first documentary film festival, founded in 2006 and held each year in Atlanta, Georgia. The event brings together documentaries of all lengths and styles, from intimate personal stories to bold reporting and experimental nonfiction work. Filmmakers and audiences come to Atlanta for three days of screenings, Q&A sessions and a relaxed space to talk about the craft.
The festival keeps the focus on real storytelling. Each block mixes voices from Atlanta with filmmakers from around the world, giving the program a wide range of subjects and perspectives. It’s a simple setup. Just strong documentaries in front of a real crowd that cares about the work.
If you are looking for a documentary film festival in Atlanta or a place to share your latest project, ATL DOC is one of the most trusted events in the region and part of the larger Atlanta Film Series of festivals held throughout the year.
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.
