DATE: 1/16/2027 - 1/17/2027
TIME: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
LOCATION: Tara Theatre
INSTRUCTOR: Asad Farooqui
PRICE: STANDARD REGISTRATION BOTH CLASSES: $120 NON MEMBERS (Now until January 16th (Day of first event)
Save $30 if you register by December 28, 2026, 11:59 PM EST with discount code: STANDOUTx2
ATLFS Member discounts applied at checkout
What makes an award-winning short film unforgettable—and what makes a film stand out in the competitive world of film festivals? Join us for a dynamic, two-day short film forum exploring the creative choices behind some of the most compelling short films from around the world. Through curated screenings, lively discussions, and close analysis, we’ll examine how filmmakers tell powerful stories, create memorable characters, build suspense, and leave audiences thinking long after the credits roll.
By comparing and contrasting award-winning shorts across genres, styles, and cultures, participants will discover what distinguishes an effective film from an exceptional one. We’ll also explore what makes short films competitive on the festival circuit: originality of vision, emotional resonance, distinctive filmmaking, thematic relevance, and the ability to connect with audiences and programmers alike. What catches a festival programmer’s attention? How do certain films rise above thousands of submissions? And what can emerging filmmakers learn from shorts that have earned critical acclaim, festival selections, and awards? Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, an experienced creative, or a passionate film enthusiast, this forum offers valuable insight into both the art of filmmaking and the realities of festival recognition.
Students may attend either day independently, but taking both provides a complete, comprehensive overview.
THE SHORT LIST: WHAT MAKES A SHORT FILM STAND OUT? CLASS 1
DATE: 1/16/27
TIME: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
PRICE: STANDARD REGISTRATION SINGLE CLASS: $80 NON MEMBERS — Now until January 16th (Day of event)
Save $20 if you register by December 28, 2026, 11:59 PM EST with discount code: STANDOUTx1
ATLFS Member discounts applied at checkout
Day One focuses on the art of storytelling, exploring character, narrative structure, conflict, and emotional impact.
THE SHORT LIST: WHAT MAKES A SHORT FILM STAND OUT? CLASS 2
DATE: 1/17/27
TIME: 10:00 PM - 2:00 PM
PRICE: STANDARD REGISTRATION SINGLE CLASS: $80 NON MEMBERS — Now until January 17th (Day of event)
Save $20 if you register by December 28, 2026, 11:59 PM EST with discount code: STANDOUTx1
ATLFS Member discounts applied at checkout
Day Two shifts to the language of cinema, examining visual storytelling, cinematography, editing, sound design, performance, and the bold directorial choices that bring a film to life.
Attendees should bring pen and paper.
Refund request must be emailed to boxoffice@atlantafilmsociety.org 7 days prior to the date of event unless specified in the event description.