Atlanta Film Festival to Showcase 130+ Films

News Summary

The Atlanta Film Festival, one of the city’s most anticipated events, will premiere over 130 films, including the opening night feature ‘Color Book’ by local director David Fortune. Running from April 24 to May 4, 2025, the festival will highlight diverse stories, particularly those from the Atlanta area, while fostering local talent. The event is not just about films but also includes showcases from aspiring student filmmakers, celebrating the rich culture and creativity of the Atlanta arts community.

Atlanta Film Festival 2025 to Feature Over 130 Films, Opening with “Color Book” by Local Director David Fortune

In the heart of Atlanta, excitement is brewing as the 49th annual Atlanta Film Festival + Creative Conference (ATLFF) gears up to showcase an impressive lineup of over 130 films, pulled from more than 6,000 submissions. Scheduled to run from April 24 to May 4, 2025, film lovers are in for a treat at this much-anticipated event.

Opening Night Kicks Off with Local Flavor

The festival will kick off with the premiere of “Color Book,” a touching film directed by local talent David Fortune. On opening night, the audience will be drawn into the heartfelt journey of a father and son, both characters navigating the challenges of life with Down syndrome as they make their way to an Atlanta Braves game following a profound family tragedy.

A Celebration of Talent

Fortune, recognized as one of the 2025 Directors to Watch, is set to attend the premiere, along with key cast members Will Catlett and Jeremiah Alexander Daniels, the latter of whom earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for his compelling portrayal in the film.

For the Love of Local Stories

This year’s festival is not just about films; it also features “Reel Connections Spring,” a showcase of works from social media and post-production students from the ATLFF. A total of 132 films will be screened, including 40 that boast strong connections to Georgia, encompassing a wide range of genres from insightful documentaries to delightful animated shorts.

A Story Rich in Local Culture

“Color Book” promises to shine a light on the intimate aspects of life in Atlanta that often escape the cinematic lens. With scenes set in bustling MARTA stations and cozy community spaces, the film dives deep into the realities of navigating grief and joy, emphasizing authentic father-son relationships. The narrative evolved from a short film about teaching baseball to a full-length feature, capturing the journey of a family and the vibrant spirit of Atlanta.

Striking a Universal Chord

Fortune’s vision for “Color Book” aims to normalize the experiences of families with children who have disabilities, steering the focus away from a singular perspective tied to their condition. The excitement of a baseball game serves as a nostalgic climax, a throwback to Fortune’s own childhood love of the sport, particularly the Atlanta Braves.

Inclusive Casting Process

In a bid to authentically represent the narrative, casting involved a nationwide search for young actors with Down syndrome, ultimately resulting in Daniels being paired with Will Catlett during chemistry reads—a decision that brought the characters to life.

Impacting Audiences Globally

“Color Book” has already won hearts internationally, resonating with viewers due to its universal themes of grief, parenthood, and community. This film does not only touch on the experiences of the disability community but is also relatable to diverse audiences, crossing race and cultural boundaries.

Supporting the Atlanta Arts Community

The Atlanta Film Festival continues to champion local creatives and filmmakers, serving as a platform for emerging talent and nurturing the broader arts community in the city. As April approaches, anticipation grows for what promises to be a memorable celebration of storytelling and creativity.

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Additional Resources

• Creative Loafing: Opening Night Atlanta Film Festival 2025
• Atlanta Magazine: The 2025 Atlanta Film Festival Spotlights Local Directors
• 11Alive: Atlanta Olympics Documentary Premiere Film Festival
• Wikipedia: Atlanta Film Festival
• Rough Draft Atlanta: Filmmaker David Fortune Talks Bringing Color Book Home to Atlanta