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CELEBRATING INDEPENDENT STORYTELLING
From Audience Choice to Best Feature, every Austin Under the Stars award recognizes filmmakers who push boundaries, connect with audiences, and leave a lasting impression. Winners are announced during our live awards ceremony, where filmmakers, cast, crew, and audiences come together to celebrate an unforgettable weekend of independent film.
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Jury Selected & Audience Choice Awards
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Feature Films, Shorts & Screenplays
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Live Awards Ceremony
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Winner Photos & Red Carpet Recognition
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Recognition Before the Festival Audience
AWARD CATEGORIES
FILM AWARDS
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Best Feature Film
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Best Narrative Short
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Best Comedy
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Best Horror
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Best Documentary
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Best Animation
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Best Music Video
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Best Micro-Short
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Best Student Short
SCREENPLAY AWARDS
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Best Overall Screenplay
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Most Original Screenplay
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Best Narrative Screenplay
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Best Comedy Screenplay
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Best Horror Screenplay
For Feature & Short Screenplays
PERFORMANCE AWARDS
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Best Director
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Best Actor
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Best Actress
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Best Ensemble
SPECIAL AWARDS
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Audience Choice
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Best Texas Film
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Keep AUTS Weird
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Most Original Concept
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M. Night Shyamalan
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Wonder Woman
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Superstar (Best Film)
WHAT MAKES AN AUTS AWARD 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.
More Than a Screening
Expect a full festival experience. Red carpet arrivals, live screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and a closing award ceremony that brings the entire community together. This isn’t a passive viewing—it’s an event.
Submit your film or screenplay and join us for the next edition of Austin Under the Stars.