Austin Film Fest Sets 78 Finalists Out of 12,500 Submissions
Summary
The 33rd edition of the writer-focused festival kicks off October 29, with 21 writers set to receive bronze typewriters or fellowships at the October 31 Awards Luncheon.
"The Austin Film Festival has named 78 finalists from more than 12,500 submissions to its 2026 script competitions, the festival announced. Finalists compete for the festival's bronze typewriter trophy or an industry fellowship, and 21 writers chosen by industry judges will be honored at the Awards Luncheon on October 31 during the 33rd annual Festival and Writers Conference, which kicks off October 29 in Austin.
Categories include drama, comedy, horror and sci-fi screenplays, fellowships sponsored by companies including Valhalla Entertainment, Enderby Entertainment, Chronology and The Donners' Company, plus teleplay, short screenplay, scripted podcast and stage play competitions. Several scripts reached the finals in more than one category, including Safe Space, Helicopter and Achievement Inc. The festival says semifinalists represent the top 2% of entries and second rounders the top 25%.
Agents, managers and producers can request the festival's Producers Book, which will include finalists' loglines and contact information, in November. Screenwriter Jim Taylor is this year's recipient of the festival's Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting."
