The B.E.S.T Film Competition (Black Emerging Screen Talent) is an annual short film showcase created to uplift, celebrate, and amplify the work of Black-identifying filmmakers from Canada and around the world.

The competition provides a professional platform for filmmakers to premiere original short films while engaging audiences through voting, connect with industry professionals in networking events and Viva Sessions, and become part of a growing creative community reshaping the future of cinema. Winning films receive a cash prize and opportunities for further development

Awards & Prizes

Grand Prize: $20,000 CAD prize for the winning short film.

Executive Production Support: Potential development support to expand the winning short into a full-length feature.

Additional Recognition.

Audience Choice Award.

Honorable Mentions.

Rules & Terms

Eligibility & General Rules:
• Open to Black-identifying filmmakers from Canada and internationally.
• Film Type: Short films (typically under 20 minutes)
• Submission Format: MP4 / MOV
• Runtime: Short form
• Confirmation: Entrants must confirm they have read and agree to all rules and guidelines upon submission.
• Entry Fee: Entry fee is detailed on the fee section.

Selection Criteria
• Originality and cultural relevance
• Storytelling quality
• Filmmaking craft and creativity

Terms & Rights
• The filmmaker affirms they own or are authorized to submit the work.
• Submission grants the festival permission to screen the film at official events, promotional screenings, and social media/website showcases.
• All selections and decisions by the festival jury/organizers are final.