After reviewing over 1,200 quarterfinalist scripts from the past five years of the Austin Film Festival (AFF) Screenplay Competition, certain genre trends have emerged. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular genres among these scripts, ranked from most to least popular, along with percentages and estimates of how many scripts fell into each category.

1. Drama - 38% (456 scripts)

Drama dominates the Austin Film Festival’s quarterfinals, representing about 38% of the selected scripts. These narratives often feature deep character development and emotionally engaging stories, resonating with the festival’s focus on the craft of storytelling.

2. Thriller and Mystery - 22% (264 scripts)

Thriller and mystery scripts make up roughly 22% of the quarterfinalists. The festival’s judges show a strong appreciation for suspenseful, plot-driven narratives, reflecting the increasing appeal of tightly woven, high-stakes stories.

3. Comedy (including Dark Comedy) - 17% (204 scripts)

Comedy, including dark comedy, holds a significant place in the AFF, with around 17% of the quarterfinalist scripts. The competition encourages originality in humor, and many comedic scripts find success by mixing wit with emotional or social commentary.

4. Science Fiction and Fantasy - 12% (144 scripts)

Science fiction and fantasy scripts make up about 12% of the quarterfinals, highlighting AFF’s recognition of creative world-building and speculative storytelling. These genres offer fresh perspectives and often push the boundaries of imagination.

5. Horror and Psychological Thrillers - 7% (84 scripts)

Horror and psychological thrillers represent approximately 7% of the selected scripts. These genres are valued for their ability to build suspense and deliver unique, sometimes unsettling, narratives that leave a lasting impact on readers.

6. Biographical and Historical Dramas - 4% (48 scripts)

Biographical and historical dramas make up around 4% of quarterfinalist scripts. These stories often focus on real events or people, providing new insights into history or exploring significant social themes.

This genre breakdown reflects the Austin Film Festival’s diverse taste in screenplays, ranging from heartfelt dramas to tension-filled thrillers and comedies. Drama remains the festival’s most prominent genre, but there’s also significant room for genres like science fiction, fantasy, and horror, reflecting the festival’s broad appeal to different storytelling styles.