Austin Film Festival names 21 script and film competition winners

The Austin Film Festival announced the winners of its 2026 script and film contests on Saturday in Austin, Texas. The 33rd edition received over 12,500 entries, and 78 scripts moved to the finalist stage before a panel chose 21 writers and writing teams for the top honors. The awards were presented during an Awards Luncheon held on Saturday. Barbara Morgan, the festival’s executive director, said the contests have celebrated strong writing for more than three decades and that the goal is to give emerging storytellers more than a trophy – new contacts, real industry exposure and chances to grow their careers. The festival connects finalists with agents, managers, producers and other leaders through its Writers Conference and a Producers Book that lists each project and the writer’s contact details. Several of the prizes come with customized fellowships that offer mentorship, access to decision‑makers and career‑building support. Winners in the narrative, documentary and animated short categories also become eligible for Academy Award consideration. A selection panel made up of showrunners and writers whose credits include Widows Bay, The Bear, Succession and Parks and Recreation chose the awardees.

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The competition is a key springboard for new screenwriters, giving them visibility to Hollywood executives and a path toward major awards such as the Oscars.