Austin Film Festival

Austin Film Festival participants include many unknown writers who are trying to make a name for themselves in the entertainment business. Founded in 1994, the renowned Austin Film Industry event is the first of its kind to revolve around the creative force of writers, and various competitions make up part of the festivities. These competitions include screenwriting and teleplay competitions. Wannabe participants are encouraged to submit their works before the festival begins in hopes of getting noticed, and if nothing else, attending one of the networking parties might lead to something big.

While it offers year round events and services, the Austin Film Festival is best known for its main Festival and Conference, which is held in October. This is when the bulk of the parties and competitions take place, and there is plenty for film enthusiasts to enjoy. Numerous Austin Film Festival events combine during the main Festival and Conference, and all of them are open to the public. Many of the events are free, and this only adds to the festival's popularity. It is worth noting that the Austin Film Festival has partnered with numerous organizations and businesses in the area with the goal being to "show off Austin and what the city has to offer." Included among these organizations and businesses are the LBJ Library, the Bob Bullock Museum, and the Long Center for the Performing Arts.

Film and television writers take center stage at the annual Austin Film Industry Festival, and these writers are comprised of both professionals and emerging talents. Many famous writers and actors have participated in the festival over the years, with some of the most recognizable personalities including Dennis Hopper, Oliver Stone, Robert Duvall, Sandra Bullock, and Sydney Pollack. As for the Austin Film Festival events, they include a four-day conference and eight days of film screenings and industry parties.

More than one successful career has been launched at the various Austin Film Festival events, and the community certainly benefits, as it is common for area teachers and students to get special grants for the main Conference. If you can't make any of the Austin Film Festival events, you might try to plan your trip to the Texas Capital when the SXSW Festival is going on. This multifaceted event is held in March and features a renowned film festival of its own, as well as a music festival and an interactive media festival.

The Austin Film Industry events that cost money to enjoy are relatively cheap on the whole, especially when it comes to the movie screenings. Tickets for special parties such as the Annual Film & Food Party can get pricey, so festival patrons can choose accordingly. In addition to attending the various Austin Film Industry events, those who have an interest in the movie business might also plan on dropping by the historic Driskill Hotel for drinks while the festival is in full swing. The hotel's bar is a popular place to congregate for festival participants, and you never know who you might see there enjoying a beverage and some conservation.