The Austin Film Festival (AFF) 2025 runs from October 23-30, 2025, in downtown Austin. It features over 150 screenings, workshops, panels, and networking events focused on storytelling and screenwriting. Here’s a quick overview:
- Key Dates: Opening Ceremony on Oct 23, Closing Ceremony on Oct 30.
- Main Events: Writers’ Conference, script competitions, pitch sessions, and daily screenings.
- Venues: Paramount Theatre, Austin Convention Center, Alamo Drafthouse Ritz, and more.
- Featured Guests: Industry leaders like Jane Doe (screenwriting), John Smith (TV writing), and Sarah Johnson (visual storytelling).
Get your badge, plan your schedule, and enjoy Austin’s vibrant arts scene during the festival. Visit the AFF website for tickets, accommodations, and the full schedule.
Austin Film Festival 2024
About the Festival
The Austin Film Festival (AFF) puts a spotlight on storytelling and screenwriting, prioritizing the art of narrative development over showcasing completed films.
Festival Highlights
Here’s what you can expect at AFF:
- Writers’ Conference: A mix of workshops, panels, and pitch sessions with industry insiders.
- Script Competitions: Contests for feature films, TV pilots, and short screenplays.
- Roundtable Discussions: Intimate conversations with screenwriters, producers, and studio executives.
- Story Development Workshops: Sessions covering character creation, story structure, and dialogue.
Who Should Attend?
AFF caters to a broad audience, including:
- Industry Professionals: Screenwriters, production representatives, and literary agents.
- Emerging Creators: Aspiring writers, indie filmmakers, and students.
- Film Enthusiasts: Movie fans, local attendees, and those curious about the industry.
With various badge options, attendees can craft an AFF experience that fits their interests. Check out the detailed daily schedule to plan sessions that align with your goals.
Schedule
Main Events by Day
Each day offers a mix of screenwriting panels, film screenings, and opportunities to connect with industry insiders.
Here’s a breakdown of AFF’s key events by day:
- Thursday, Oct 23: Opening Ceremony, Keynote Address, Conference registration, Opening Night premiere
- Friday, Oct 24: Writers sessions, Script‑to‑Screen session, evening feature screenings
- Saturday, Oct 25: Pitch finals, industry roundtables, awards gala
- Oct 26–29: Daily highlights include film screenings, panel discussions, and special events
- Thursday, Oct 30: Closing Ceremony, Best of Fest screenings, farewell reception
Featured Guests
Throughout the festival, top industry professionals will lead panels and workshops:
- Jane Doe (Oscar-nominated screenwriter): "Character Arcs in Modern Drama" on Oct 24 at 2 PM
- John Smith (Emmy-winning producer): "Television Writing Master Class" on Oct 25 at 11 AM
- Sarah Johnson (acclaimed director): "Visual Storytelling Workshop" on Oct 26 at 3 PM
- Michael Chen (veteran showrunner): "Writers’ Room Dynamics" on Oct 27 at 1 PM
For the complete event lineup and guest details, check the festival app or website.
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Venues
AFF events take place across six key downtown locations, each offering unique sessions and screenings:
- Austin Convention Center (500 E Cesar Chavez St): The go-to spot for badge pickup, conference sessions, and a networking lounge.
- Paramount Theatre (713 Congress Ave): Home to the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as "Best of Fest" screenings.
- Alamo Drafthouse Ritz (320 E Sixth St): Hosts daily feature films and short film screenings.
- Stateside at the Dobie (2021 Guadalupe St): Focused on story development workshops and roundtables.
- Harry Ransom Center (300 W 21st St): A hub for masterclasses and archival exhibits.
- Bat Theatre (2720 S Lamar Blvd): The venue for pitch finals and indie film screenings.
Check the ‘Main Events by Day’ section to align these venues with specific sessions.
Attendee Guide
Once you’ve picked your venue, it’s time to sort out the details: tickets, transportation, accommodations, and meals.
Tickets and Badges
Grab your badge to access screenings, panels, workshops, and networking events. Badges come in tiers, so check the AFF website for pricing and early-bird discounts.
Getting Around
Most downtown venues are easy to reach. Walk, hop on a Capital Metro bus or rail, use rideshare services, rent a bike, or park in nearby garages.
Where to Stay and Eat
Find discounted hotel rooms through AFF’s partner listings on their website. When it’s time to eat, check out Rainey Street, East Sixth Street, and South Congress for great dining options. Staying longer or relocating? The Austin Local Team can help with real estate services and local market advice.
Austin’s Entertainment Scene
Austin’s Creative Community
Austin isn’t just about AFF; the city thrives with a vibrant arts scene and unique neighborhood hubs. Known as the ‘Live Music Capital of the World,’ Austin blends music, film, and creativity. AFF and production centers like Austin Studios anchor the film industry here, while iconic venues such as ACL Live at The Moody Theater and Stubb’s BBQ host performances by local and international artists.
Living in Austin
If you’re a creative looking to settle in Austin, neighborhoods like South Congress, East Austin, Downtown, and Hyde Park are popular choices. South Congress offers walkable access to venues, East Austin is home to galleries and indie cinemas, Downtown boasts festival venues, and Hyde Park charms with its historic vibe and cultural hotspots.
Housing options include everything from sleek apartments to historic homes. Mixed-use areas like Mueller and Plaza Saltillo combine living spaces, shops, and studios, creating a dynamic environment that supports Austin’s creative spirit. These districts also make it easy to reach AFF venues and enjoy cultural events all year long.
Conclusion
This guide is your go-to resource for making the most of the Austin Film Festival 2025, a gathering spot for filmmakers, writers, and movie fans from all over. Once the festival wraps up and you’re considering settling down in Austin, the Austin Local Team is here to help. They offer personalized agent matchmaking, home searches, and relocation support. Check out their services at localteam.ai or reach out via email at copilot@localteam.ai or phone at (512) 710‑0337.
