1. Eligibility
• CIMFF accepts films created entirely or primarily using mobile devices (smartphones or tablets).
• Films of all genres are eligible, including narrative, documentary, experimental, animation, and hybrid forms.
• Submissions are open to filmmakers based in Canada and internationally.
• Filmmakers must hold all necessary rights to submit the work.
2. Film Length (No Runtime Restriction)
• CIMFF does not impose any minimum or maximum runtime restrictions.
• Short films, mid-length films, and feature-length films are all eligible.
• Final screening selections are subject to programming considerations and scheduling capacity.
3. Submission Platform
• All submissions must be made through FilmFreeway.
• Films must be submitted in a viewable digital format with clear audio and picture quality.
• Non-English films must include English subtitles.
• Multiple submissions from the same filmmaker are allowed; each submission requires a separate entry and fee.
4. Submission Deadlines
CIMFF operates on a tiered deadline system:
• Regular Deadline – Standard submission period
• Extended Deadline – Final opportunity for consideration
• Official / Final Deadline – Absolute last date for submissions
Exact dates and fees are listed on the official FilmFreeway submission page. Submissions received after the final deadline will not be considered.
5. Submission Fee
• A non-refundable submission fee applies to all entries.
• Submission fees support the festival’s curation, jury review process, and operations.
• Payment of a submission fee does not guarantee selection.
6. Selection & Jury Process
• All films are reviewed by the CIMFF programming team and/or appointed jurors.
• Selected films are evaluated across 15 official award categories.
• Jury decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
7. Awards & Recognition
• Selected films are eligible for official CIMFF awards and recognition.
• Award recipients receive official CIMFF laurels, a custom festival trophy, and public recognition.
• Awards focus on creative excellence, storytelling, innovation, and impact in mobile filmmaking.
8. Audience Choice Award & YouTube Exhibition
• Films selected for the Audience Choice Award may be published on CIMFF’s official YouTube channel.
• Audience Choice winners are determined through public engagement and voting metrics.
• Participation in the Audience Choice category grants CIMFF permission to host the film online for the duration of the voting period and festival promotion.
9. Rights & Promotional Use
• Filmmakers retain full ownership and copyright of their submitted works.
• By submitting a film, filmmakers grant CIMFF the right to:
• Screen the film during the festival (in-person, digital, or hybrid)
• Publish the film on CIMFF’s official YouTube channel for Audience Choice consideration
• You are solely responsible for ensuring that all necessary legal rights and clearances for your film (e.g., music, script, images) have been obtained.
• Use excerpts (up to 120 seconds), stills, trailers, and film information for promotional purposes across CIMFF platforms, including social media, website, press, and marketing materials
10. Screening Format
• Selected films may be screened in-person, online, or in a hybrid format.
• Screening format, schedule, and presentation are determined by the festival.
11. Notification
• Filmmakers will be notified of selection status via FilmFreeway or email.
• CIMFF is not responsible for missed notifications due to incorrect or outdated contact information.
12. Acceptance of Terms
• Submission to CIMFF constitutes acceptance of all festival Rules & Terms.
• CIMFF reserves the right to make final decisions regarding programming, scheduling, and eligibility.
13. All submissions must include the following:
Film title
Short synopsis (150–250 words)
Director or Producer biography (brief)
Filmmaker name(s)
Film duration
Country of production.
Mobile device used (smartphone or tablet)
Optional (Recommended):
Editing software or app used
Social Media / Professional Profile (Required):
To support programming and promotion, filmmakers must provide at least one active profile:
Instagram, Facebook, X (Twitter), or LinkedIn
Incomplete submissions may affect eligibility or program inclusion.
