2020 Atlanta Film Festival Screenplay Competition Winners

The Atlanta Film Festival is proud to announce the winners of the 2020 Atlanta Film Festival Screenplay Competition. Chosen from nearly 1,300 total submissions, 260 quarterfinalists, 130 semifinalists, and 24 finalist scripts, these 5 screenplays represent those who will receive unique mentorship opportunities to help hone their craft and plan the next steps in their careers.

Feature Film Screenplays

BATTLE CRIES - Karen Walker

A powerful coming of age true story tribute of a military veteran who uses her love of the game to rise above tragedy and political pitfalls finding herself leading Marines on the battlefront once again.

THE RAT AND THE BLUEBIRD - T.E. Strong

A western tale set in a high fantasy backdrop. An ex-outlaw turned sheriff must come to terms with the mistakes of his past to unravel the mystery of his daughter's kidnapping and put an end to the madness he created.

THE SCHTICK-UP - Val Bodurtha

A group of young Jewish friends plan a heist on a Swiss Bank to steal back long-lost Nazi gold.

Pilot Screenplay

BIRDSONG - Jennifer Dunn

A mountain witch who fled the secretive world of evangelical faith healing now medicates away the supernatural powers that plague her. But when her beloved Granny and mentor is threatened, she must re-enter the world she so narrowly escaped.

Short Screenplay

DUNKED - John Bickerstaff

A closeted teen takes swimming lessons to prepare for his full-immersion baptism.

Congratulations to these promising screenwriters!

The 2021 Screenplay Competition is currently open for entries and amazingly already has more applications than the total for 2020. Should you like to be considered to serve on the Reading Committee, please email screenplay@atlantafilmfestival.com.