Canadian International Film Festival
"Celebrating Global Diversity in Cinema"

Formerly known as the Canadian Diversity Film Festival, the newly rebranded Canadian International Film Festival is committed to expanding its horizons to showcase exceptional films from around the world. This evolution marks our dedication to bringing diverse voices to the forefront, celebrating storytelling that transcends borders, cultures, and perspectives.

The Canadian International Film Festival serves as a vibrant platform for filmmakers to promote narratives that inspire understanding, equality, social justice, and multiculturalism. Through our comprehensive evaluation process, we select only high-quality films that challenge conventions and champion global stories.

We proudly accept all genres of films from across the globe, creating a space where filmmakers can compete, collaborate, and connect with audiences worldwide. Join us as we continue our journey to inspire, innovate, and illuminate the world of cinema.

Awards & Prizes

At the Canadian International Film Festival, we proudly honor the finest independent filmmakers from around the globe. Our selection process is driven by a commitment to quality, creativity, and storytelling excellence. Every submission undergoes a rigorous evaluation by our panel of industry experts, ensuring that only the best are recognized.

Festival Highlights:
Live Screening & Award Ceremony:
Join us for an unforgettable celebration of cinema during our annual event.

VIP Dinner Gala:
Celebrate in style with celebrities, filmmakers, and industry leaders at our exclusive VIP Dinner Gala during the award ceremony. This elegant evening offers a unique opportunity to network, share stories, and toast to the magic of cinema.

Award Trophy:
Each winner will be presented with a beautifully crafted trophy at the award ceremony, symbolizing their outstanding achievement and contribution to global cinema.

Winner Notification:
All award winners are contacted directly on the official Notification Date.

Genre Submissions:
Films must be submitted to at least one primary genre to qualify for additional categories, expanding their chances to shine.

Rules & Terms

Rules & Terms
Production Date:
All films must have been completed on or after 2024.

Language Requirements:
Films must be in English or have English subtitles.

Work-in-Progress Submissions:
We accept work-in-progress submissions, provided they are clearly labeled as such.

Multiple Submissions:
Filmmakers are welcome to submit multiple entries.

Non-Competitive Entry:
Our entries are evaluated on individual merit and do not compete directly against each other.

Submission Fees:
All entry fees are non-refundable.

Film Length Requirements:

Short Films: Must be under 40 minutes.

Feature Films: Must be 40 minutes or longer.

Category Submission:
Each film must be entered into at least one primary genre to qualify for additional categories.
Films submitted to multiple categories are eligible to win multiple awards.

Premium Status Requirement:
Premium status is not required, but all films must not be available online on any streaming platforms to be eligible for selection.

Filmmaker Attendance:
At least one filmmaker or representative must attend the festival to qualify for official selection and awards.

Dinner Gala & Award Ceremony:
All attendees are required to purchase dinner tickets to attend the VIP Dinner Gala and Award Ceremony.

Online Submission Requirements:
Online screeners and posters must be uploaded directly to FilmFreeway.

Student Films:
All student film submissions must include a valid student ID uploaded during the submission process.
100 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Kimberly Olsen L.

    Lovely festival and very good communication. I was honored to win best shot drama. I couldn’t attend the festival, but hope to next year!

    December 2025
    Helpful
  • Steven Antonuccio

    I was honored that my screenplay "4th and Going Home" was selected as an award winner in the feature screenplay category, I had the pleasure of meeting the festival director Mitesh Patel and he is also a successful film producer. Toronoto is a great city to host this festival and it was the first time I have visited the city. A great festival all around and I was delighted I was able to attend.

    December 2025
    Helpful
  • Michael Gould

    CIFF is a very well-organized, attention to detail, punctual and well-presented festival, staffed by friendly people who invite great, personal communication. It's been a great experience. Thank you for awarding Best Horror Screenplay to my unproduced feature script, Sacred Sun.

    December 2025
    Helpful
  • Stephen Hiemstra

    It is an honor to be recognized at the Canadian International Film Festiival. Canadian films stand out as highlighting the best in human nature and are a tribute to the Canadian spirit. This festival is no different.

    December 2025
    Helpful
  • Jensen Noen

    Even if you win this festival(as I did) don't expect anything from them!
    Do you want a trophy for your award? Pay $186 and get a statue with a crappy awkward sticker(!) with your name on it.
    You'll be ashamed to show this "award" to anyone, trust me! Mine end up in a trash bin.
    Do you want this award to be added to IMDB as they promised? You would need to write them a few times (they ignored me for a long time) and wait a few weeks to find out they can not help you. The only recommendation they give me is to add it to IMDB on my own! How? Read the FAQ section on IMDB.
    AWESOME! Thank you for the suggestion and support!

    Supper crappy festival. I would non recommend it to anyone!

    January 2022
    Helpful