Beyond budgets and industry noise, we seek authentic voices ready for the red carpet and a packed auditorium.
Our Story
Built in Newnan. Built for Independent Film.
The Best Damn Film Awards began in 2022 with a simple idea: create a selective competition that celebrates independent filmmakers and screenwriters without losing the personality and community that make independent film special.
Since our first competition, BDFA has grown through multiple seasons, recognized more than 120 Official Selections, and expanded into live events in the Newnan area. We're filmmakers ourselves, and BDFA continues to grow alongside the independent creators we were built to recognize.
Community
Partners
We are so thankful to these Current and Past Sponsors
LINE CREEK BREWING CO.
Festival Host & Community Partner.
RPM FULL SERVICE
2025 Event Host
Your Questions, Answered
Find clarity on submissions, eligibility, and what to expect when you join the BDFA community.
How do I submit my film or screenplay?
What kind of projects is BDFA looking for?
Is every submission reviewed?
All submissions are accepted exclusively through FilmFreeway. Simply create a FilmFreeway account, upload your project, select the appropriate category, and complete your submission before the deadline. Both films and screenplays are eligible for competition.
We are looking for bold, original, and memorable storytelling. Whether your project is a short film, feature film, documentary, screenplay, experimental work, comedy, horror, drama, science fiction, or something completely unique, we want to see creative voices that take risks and leave an impact. We celebrate exceptional storytelling above all else.
Yes. Every submission receives genuine consideration from our review panel. BDFA is a selective competition, meaning Official Selection status is earned through merit. Projects are evaluated on their strengths in storytelling, creativity, execution, and overall impact.
More Frequently asked questions
What awards does BDFA present?
BDFA recognizes excellence across a wide range of categories for both films and screenplays. Awards may include Best Feature, Best Short Film, Best Script, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Cinematography, Best Story, Best Sound, Best Visual Effects, Champion Award, and many more. Categories may vary from season to season based on submissions received.
Why submit to the BDFA?
Since launching in December 2022, BDFA has reviewed hundreds of submissions, officially selected more than 90 projects, and presented over 180 awards to filmmakers and writers from around the world. In addition to awards recognition, every Official Selection receives a custom promotional quote that can be used on posters, websites, and marketing materials. Our goal is to provide meaningful recognition and celebrate independent creators who deserve to be seen.
How much does it cost?
Our pricing varies depending on if you are submitting a short film or a Screenplay. We currently have $25 Short Film submissions and Screenplays are $25 for Shorts, and $50 for Features. Please visit FilmFreeway for exact or current season prices.
What can filmmakers expect if their film is selected?
Officially Selected films receive more than just a laurel. Every selected filmmaker will be considered for ALL Awards we present that are applicable. Based on the elements that stood out to our panel. We aim to give feedback about what your film does well and provide valuable promotional material you can use on posters, websites, social media, press kits, and future marketing efforts. Our goal is to ensure filmmakers leave BDFA with meaningful recognition.
What can screenwriters expect if their screenplay is selected?
Screenplays selected by BDFA receive personalized recognition from our review panel. EACH AND EVERY SUBMITTED script is given custom feedback discussing its strongest elements, including elements like story, characters, dialogue, structure, concept, or overall execution. These comments are intended to highlight what the judges felt stood out or maybe missed the mark compared to the competition. We provide feedback that we hope can be used to improve the work or even as professional endorsements when promoting your work to producers, agents, contests, and future collaborators. We believe exceptional writing deserves meaningful recognition beyond a simple score or placement.