Austin, Texas is a known hub of entertainment down south. From its emblematic live music scene to its prosperous local film industry, there’s always something happening for the artsy folk. Always some way to Keep Austin Weird, and this upcoming season is no exception. Continuing in Austin’s tradition of highlighting the local arts and culture scene, there are two major events you have to look forward to. The Austin Film Festival, happening in October, and the 41st Annual Austin Music Awards, being held February 26. Get ready to fill up your calendar, cause I’m about to let you know why you don’t want to miss either of these.
The Austin Film Festival, which is taking place October 26 through November 2, has been a staple of the city for 30 years. Since Barbara Morgan and Marsha Milam decided to take a chance and start it way back in 1993. Now, all these years later, the eight-day film festival and four-day conference is home to some of the most sought-after movie screenings. Last year’s film list included Samuel D. Hunter’s The Whale and Netflix’s Glass Onion. According to their own description, the Austin Film Festival, “furthers the art and craft of storytelling by inspiring and championing the work of writers, filmmakers, and all artists who use written and visual language to tell a story.” The event holds a Film Conference and Festival in tandem thro ughout the eight days. During that time, various panels, premieres, and competitions are available depending on what package you purchase.
Throughout the event, local artists will be able to network, get an exclusive look at how certain films were made, and familiarize themselves with Austin’s local film industry. If you are anyone with even a modicum of interest in either watching films or being a part of their creation, this event is for you. A great way to get your foot in the door is through Austin Film Festivals 6 writing and production competitions, all being held throughout the event. The six competitions; Film Competition, Screenplay & Teleplay Competition, Produced Digital Series Competition, Scripted Digital Series Competition, Fictional Podcast Awards, and Playwright Competition, are all taking up submissions right now.
As for prices, Austin Film Festival offers multiple packages, each garnering different levels of access to the event. Starting at $60 with the Film Pass, this badge gives patrons access to all film screenings for the entire 8 days. Then, comes the $125 Lone Star Badge, which offers everything the previous package does, plus access to the Exhibit Hall and Saturday’s panels. Going up from there is a $275 Weekend Pass, which adds access to Sunday’s panels. Then, perhaps the best package in order to truly enjoy the event, a $395 Conference Badge, which gives access to all four days of panels, and priority entry into theaters. There is also a student discount available, offering the same badge at $250 for those who are able to provide proof of college enrollment.
However, if you are a mega film buff, there is one more badge that you may want to hear about. The Producer Badge offers everything previously stated, plus exclusive access to script readings, advanced panel sign-ups, and early access to the conference sign-ups. All for a whopping $625. These badges are all available for purchase right now. If you love films, are studying films, or hoping to work in the entertainment industry (maybe meet some cool local people in the process) you’re not gonna wanna miss 2023’s Austin Film Festival.
Now to our second exciting event. Music lovers celebrate! As February draws to a close, the 41st Annual Austin Music Awards is just around the corner. If you love the very prominent and rich local music scene in Austin, you are going to love the AMAs. The Austin Chronicle presents a night of music, laughter, and lots of live entertainment. And just who is getting awarded? The winners of The Austin Chronicle Music Poll, of course. A public poll that aims to, “honor the local music community by recognizing Austin artists and industry leaders.” The Austin Chronicle has been hosting the event and connecting Austin’s diverse community to the local music scene for years, and now is your chance to attend.
With special performances from bands like Jackie Venson, Como Las Movies featuring Sabrina Ellis, and Die Spitz, it promises to be an evening you won’t forget. Taking place at the Mohawk Sunday, February 26, at just $20 per ticket. Proceeds will directly benefit the SIMS foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring musicians, music industry professionals, and their family members receive proper mental health and substance use recovery services. Tickets are available for purchase right here. If you’re looking to hear some good music, meet some new bands, and keep the culture alive, Austin Music Awards is the place for you.
Sources:
Austin Film Fesitval: https://austinfilmfestival.com/
41st Annual Austin Music Awards: https://www.austinchronicle.com/austin-music-awards/show/
Austin Film Festival Competitions: https://austinfilmfestival.com/submit/
Austin Film Festival Badges: https://austinfilmfestival.com/product-category/badges-and-film-passes/
The Austin Chronicle: https://www.austinchronicle.com/
Austin Chronicle Music Poll: https://vote.austinchronicle.com/
The Mohawk: https://mohawkaustin.com/AFF 2018,
SIMS foundation: https://simsfoundation.org/
