The Atlanta Children’s Film Festival (ACFF) returns for its 18th year, Oct. 10–26, bringing two weeks of screenings, workshops, and panels designed to inspire and empower the next generation of filmmakers. Presented by Kids Video Connection, ACFF showcases youth-made and independent films from around the world while promoting positive, educational, and entertaining programming for children and families.

As the film industry continues to grow in Georgia, educational opportunities like this festival are key to training the next generation of filmmakers. Guests may attend in-person or virtually; Registration for both is available on Eventbrite at: acff25.eventive.org/welcome.

“At ACFF, our programming is all about sparking imagination, teaching media literacy, and giving young people the tools to create and share their own positive stories,” said ACFF Director Alesia Johnson. “What started as a simple idea — to screen uplifting films that inspire youth — has grown into workshops and camps where kids not only dream bigger, but also see real pathways into film, TV, and digital entertainment careers. It’s especially rewarding to see such a diverse group of children discovering their voices as storytellers.”

FILM FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

OPENING DAY | FRI., OCT. 10 (Closed to Public) Partner school will host Film Screenings and a Media Career Fair.

YOUTH VISION SHOWCASE KICK-OFF (Online) | FRI., OCT. 10 ( FREE) A virtual showcase of youth-produced films celebrating the creativity and storytelling of emerging young filmmakers.

INDUSTRY PANEL: DISTRIBUTION WEBINAR | SAT., OCT 18 (Online) An insightful, online event featuring seasoned industry professionals offering independent filmmakers invaluable tips on marketing and distributing their films including essential insights on navigating the complex world of children’s programming. This engaging session will be conducted via Zoom, providing convenient access to expert advice from the comfort of your own home. Don't miss this opportunity.

FILM FESTIVAL FAMILY DAY | OCT. 25 (In-Person) INTRO TO ANIMATION WORKSHOP (Ages 7-17) | 10–11:30 a.m. Students will walk through the animation pipeline and try their hand at animating and voice acting via stop-motion paper cut-out workshops. No previous experience or the ability to draw to is required. (Limit 25 students)

INDUSTRY PANEL: DISTRIBUTION & MARKETING (Adults Only) | 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m. An insightful panel discussion tailored for independent filmmakers. Gain invaluable tips on effective marketing and strategic distribution from industry professionals.

MEDIA CAREER FAIR (Ages 7-17) | 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. During the Media Fair industry professionals will share insights into their careers in film and TV. Presenters will include: Jay Pelisser — As a seasoned production designer. Pelisser is known for his work on major films including Black Panther, Sweet Home, and Fast & Furious. In addition, he has also served as Art Director for HBO and ABC Studios. Darryl Lassiter — Lassiter has directed more than 100 music videos across genres and produced national TV commercials and specials for BET, TLC, Black Enterprise TV, and The Word Network. He is an award-winning producer, director, founder of DDL Entertainment, and winner of the Stellar Award for Best Gospel Video.

FILM SCREENING (All Ages) | 1–2:30 p.m. A showcase of 50 award-winning films curated from nearly 100 submissions, including: “The Curious Incident of Everett Wilder” (USA): Directed by Ben Tobin, this enchanting animated tale follows a boy in 1952 who encounters a jackalope at his birthday party. “City Critters" — Daddy Longlegs Spider” (Denmark): Directed by Emil Nørgaard Munk, this animated adventure invites kids to see urban animals with fresh curiosity and respect. “Ball” (China): The story about a Uyghur father who gifts his son a soccer ball on the same day each year. The story is an emotional tale that begins as a playful ritual and then reveals itself as a quiet homage to a lost promise—as the father who once said he’d give footballs for life, never returned home. Director Fubao Fan said that the film “isn’t just a film about a father. It’s about loss.”

YOUTH VISION SHOWCASE (Online) | OCT. 10–26 A special FREE showcase of films produced by youth. (All Ages)

VIRTUAL FILM SHOWCASE (Online) | OCT. 24–26 A screening of all films online. (All Ages)

For tickets, schedule, and full descriptions, visit: acff25.eventive.org/welcome.