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Atlanta Children’s Film Festival returns to Emory with workshops and film screenings
Kheyal teaching animation

With the theme “Dreams to Action,” the virtual and in-person Atlanta Children’s Film Festival introduces youth to film and television careers through workshops in acting, filmmaking and more.

Returning as a hybrid event June 9–25, the virtual and in-person Atlanta Children’s Film Festival introduces youth to film and television careers through workshops in acting, filmmaking and more.

Kids Video Connection, Inc. (KVC), an Atlanta-based nonprofit, presents the 16th annual Atlanta Children’s Film Festival (ACFF) from June 9–25. With the theme “Dreams to Action,” this year’s festival features two-and-a-half weeks of virtual and in-person film screenings and workshops for children, teens and industry professionals. Showcasing films produced by youth and adult independent filmmakers from around the world, the festival promotes positive, educational and entertaining children and family-oriented productions.

The 2023 festival will include guest teachers and speakers such as Fran Burst-Terranella, Janlatae Mullin and Kenn Viselman, producer of “Thomas the Tank Engine” and “Teletubbies,” among others.

As the film industry continues to grow in Georgia, educational opportunities like this festival are key to training the next generation of filmmakers.

“The ACFF programming aims to expand children’s imaginations, teach media literacy, guide youth in creating their own positive media content, and introduce youth to careers in film and media,” says Alesia Johnson, ACFF director. “I’m excited that our simple idea to show films that would encourage and inspire youth has grown over the years.”

Emory University will host Film Festival Family Day on Saturday, June 24, with film showcases and hands-on workshops. The workshops include acting, storytelling, creating and communicating through puppets, and a media career fair to introduce youth to potential career paths. This event is co-sponsored by the Emory Department of Film & Media, the Department of Environmental Studies and Emory Climate Talks.

Registration is required and prices vary depending on the event(s) selected.


Film Festival Family Day activities on June 24


Word in Motion Acting Workshop with Kelly Young-Silva

10 a.m. in White Hall; $25 (ages 7–17)

Intro to Animation Workshop

10:30 a.m. in White Hall; $20 (ages 5–17)

KVC Media Career Fair 

Noon in White Hall; $20 (ages 7–17)

Film Screening at Film Festival Family Day

1 p.m. in White Hall; $10 per person or $25 for a family pass (all ages)


For general information about the festival, visit the KVC website. Tickets and a complete festival schedule can be found on the Atlanta Children's Film Festival website.

Students produced and shot their short film during the Media Career Fair at ACFF 2022.


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