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AUSTIN UNDER THE STARS

2026 AWARDS & NOMINATIONS

Celebrating the filmmakers, screenwriters, and stories
that make Austin Under the Stars unforgettable.

2026 AUSTIN UNDER THE STARS
AWARD NOMINEES

We’re proud to celebrate the filmmakers, screenwriters, performers, and creative teams nominated for awards at the 10th Annual Austin Under the Stars Film Festival.

Explore the 2026 nominees across categories recognizing outstanding independent storytelling, filmmaking, performance, and screenwriting.

  • Film Awards

  • Cast & Crew Awards

  • Screenplay Awards

Audience Choice Awards will be decided live by festival audiences following each screening block, giving moviegoers the opportunity to recognize the films that connected with them most. A festival-wide Audience Choice Award, selected from the entire 2026 program, will be revealed during our Saturday evening Awards Ceremony.

Join us September 25–26 at AFS Cinema as we celebrate the filmmakers, screenwriters, cast, and crew bringing this year’s stories to the big screen in Austin.

Congratulations to all of our 2026 nominees. We can’t wait to celebrate with you under the stars.

TICKETS

AWARD CATEGORIES

FILM AWARDS

  • Best Film

  • Best Feature Film

  • Best Narrative Short

  • Best Comedy

  • Best Horror

  • Best Documentary

  • Best Animation

  • Best Music Video

  • Best Micro-Short

  • Best Student Short

SCREENPLAY AWARDS

  • Best Overall Screenplay

  • Most Original Screenplay

  • Best Twist

  • Best Narrative Screenplay

  • Best Comedy Screenplay

  • Best Horror Screenplay

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For Feature & Short Screenplays

PERFORMANCE AWARDS

  • Best Director

  • Best Actor

  • Best Actress

  • Best Ensemble

  • Rising Star

SPECIAL AWARDS

  • Audience Choice (for each block)

  • Keep AUTS Weird

  • M. Night Shyamalan (Best Twist)

  • Wonder Woman (Outstanding Female Filmmaker) 

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WHAT MAKES OUR AWARDS SPECIAL

Industry Recognition

Your work is recognized by filmmakers and industry professionals.

Celebrating Independent Film

Every category honors creativity, originality, and storytelling.

Live Awards Ceremony

Receive your award in front of fellow filmmakers and audiences.

Winner Recognition

Professional photos, laurels, and lasting recognition.

Community Celebration

Celebrate alongside the filmmakers who made the festival possible.

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More Than a Screening

September 25–26 • AFS Cinema • Austin, Texas

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