The Canadian Film Fest is a non-profit organization whose mission is to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling by exclusively showcasing Canadian films. The festival unites film-loving audiences with diverse selections of features and shorts from across the country. CFF provides Canadian filmmakers with essential professional development and networking opportunities through its Industry Series and awards. And, of course, the awesome parties.

The Canadian Film Fest is a qualifying festival for the Canadian Academy's Canadian Screen Awards for short films and documentary feature films.

Questions?
Please contact us before submitting.

Awards & Prizes

THE CANADIAN FILM FEST AWARDS

Best Feature
Best Short
Reel Canadian Indie
DGC Ontario Best Director
People's Pick for Best Flick
Canadian Film Fest Best Short Film Producer
Jury Prizes

Rules & Terms

WHAT IS THE CANADIAN FILM FEST LOOKING FOR?
• Films by Canadians
• Films of all genres. Tell us a great story!
• Toronto premieres (at minimum)
• CFF waives the Toronto premiere status for BIPOC filmmakers (directors and producers)
• Films produced within the last two (2) years

WHAT IS THE CANADIAN FILM FEST NOT LOOKING FOR?
• Films from non-Canadian directors
• Films that are available online. Even if your project stars Ryan Reynolds. We'll watch it, but we can't program it.
• Films that have screened in Toronto

ENTRY DETAILS AND FEES:

• REGULAR DEADLINE
$25 short films
$45 feature films

• EXTENDED DEADLINES
$35 short films
$55 feature films

• CFF does not grant waivers except to Canadian BIPOC filmmakers, female and non-binary filmmakers, and high school students. To claim a waiver fee, email: ashleigh@canfilmfest.ca
• Entry fees are non-refundable

RULES AND REGULATIONS:
• Films must be a Toronto premiere. Toronto screenings, whether private (e.g. cast/crew screenings) or at school, automatically disqualify your film.
• CFF waives the Toronto premiere status for BIPOC filmmakers. If a film has screened in Toronto over the past two (2) years, it is eligible for the Canadian Film Fest.
• Short films must not exceed 25 minutes in length, including credits
• Feature films must be at a minimum of 70 minutes in length
• All non-English language films must have English subtitles
• Films must be available in DCP format
• Submissions may not be withdrawn from CFF once invited to screen and confirmed, except at the sole discretion of the Festival
• All selected films may be excerpted for publicity purposes
• A separate entry form and an additional entry fee are required for each film submitted
• CFF does not accept resubmissions
• Films must be completed in the last two (2) years
• By submitting to Canadian Film Fest, you agree to receive communications from the festival (and may unsubscribe at any time)

55 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Scott Cavalheiro

    Bern, Ashleigh, Jen and all of the volunteers make the festival incredible. I've been fortunate to visit the festival both as a patron and filmmaker several times. It's hard to find a venue for indie films -- let alone Canadian indie films -- especially in an industry that seems to champion less and less Canadian content. CFF is a gross exception and praise could not be large enough for them. Kudos to the hard work and love of film. I look forward to the next one...

    April 2026
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  • James R. Cowley

    I don't often rate something a hard 10, but CFF pulled out all the stops. As a Canadian representing a Canadian film at a Canadian festival, it was one of the best on our festival circuit. The networking opportunities were undeniably promising and the way the festival staff conducted themselves just showed a true passion for the medium. Highly recommend.

    April 2026
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  • ADAM REID

    What an inspiring festival. We were honoured to bring our short film VINCE to the Canadian Film Festival for its Toronto premiere. The downtown venue at Scotiabank Theatre was really special. And there's something magical about a festival that is truly passionate about film, specifically Canadian film and filmmakers. Audiences were enthusiastic, and genuinely curious. Bern Euler and Ashleigh Rains (and Zach, Warren, Jennifer and the whole team) were great. I feel like we've made new friends. I would also say it was the best lineup of other short films within our screening block that I have ever experienced (kudos to Ashleigh). I highly recommend this festival and am excited to go back!

    April 2026
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  • Joshua Banman

    Great hosts. Fantastic panels with a ton of value. Really entertaining programming. Grateful to be there and looking forward to my next time!

    June 2025
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  • Beth Evans

    We were thrilled to have our Toronto Premiere of CLEMENTINE at Can Film Fest! A very warm and welcoming environment with an excellent line-up of industry panels in an amazing venue. Saw some incredible films, met fellow filmmakers and networked with industry professionals. I also had the chance to experience the Comedy Igniter for the first time this year. So fun. Highest recommendations for this festival that celebrates Canadian filmmakers!

    May 2025
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