ATL EXP - Atlanta Experimental Film Festival
ATL Experimental Fest
ATL EXP – Atlanta Experimental Film Festival
July 10, 2026. Held at 7 Stages Theater in Atlanta
ATL EXP is the Atlanta Experimental Film Festival, a one day event for experimental films, AI filmmaking, digital art and new media. It takes place in Atlanta, Georgia and brings together work that pushes form, tone and technique. The lineup mixes local and international voices, and the whole event has a loose, creative energy that fits the kind of films we show.
We welcome experimental films of all kinds including experimental narrative, unconventional animation, hybrid documentary, mixed media work, abstract films, and projects that are difficult to categorize.
Some films are funny. Some are strange. Some are dark or surreal. If your film takes risks or explores new ideas, it belongs here.
If you want a festival that leans into art, risk and experimentation, ATL EXP is part of the Atlanta Film Series and it’s going to get weird.
2026 Entries
Now accepting experimental work of all kinds. This includes stories that break the rules, genre-bending animation, nonfiction pieces reimagined as art, music videos with heart or a machine in charge, and hybrid creations that don’t fit anywhere else.
Atlanta Experimental celebrates indie filmmakers
Atl EXP Award Categories
AWARDS & PRIZES – ATLANTA EXPERIMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL
ATL EXP honors films and creators who break things on purpose: structure, tools, genres, expectations. These awards recognize the best of experimental cinema in all categories.
Best Short
Top overall honor. Awarded to the most exceptional film with a unique vision, strong execution, and lasting impact.
Best Narrative
For storytelling that hits hard, whether emotional, nonlinear, poetic, or strange.
Innovation Award
Given to the film that pushes the edge with standout use of technology, or experimental techniques.
The Mindbender
Awarded to the film that gets under your skin. Surreal, disorienting, unforgettable.
Creator of the Year
Presented to a standout artist whose work, on screen or across multiple projects, defines the spirit of ATL EXP. Risk-taker. Rule-breaker. Original thinker.
Audience Choice
Voted on by the crowd during the live event.
Each award winner receives a custom crystal trophy - a physical reminder that your strange, rule-breaking film found its place.