ALERT: WE WILL STILL BE ACCEPTING FILMS FOR THE 2020 ESFF AND HAVE CONTINGENCY PLANS TO STILL PROVIDE A GREAT CELEBRATION EVEN IF COVID19 IS STILL A CONCERN IN OCTOBER! The wonderful thing about being a small festival is that we are VERY nimble!
The Edmonton Short Film Festival (ESFF) is dedicated to the elevation of Independent short film. The ESFF gala event showcases Alberta filmmakers and our Long Shorts program screens both Alberta and Beyond short films considered outside of the “normal” festival market. We feature diverse projects (newly created or “dusted off” favourites) including trailers, music videos, web series, commercials, and any genre short film. The Alberta gala is for films to a maximum of 15 minutes. The Long Shorts is for films to a maximum of 60 minutes.
1. We accept 360/Virtual Reality films that will be showcased before the red carpet gala using state-of-the-art VR headsets (open to ALL filmmakers)
2. For our LONG SHORTS day, we accept submissions up to 60 minutes in length, any creation date, from anywhere in the world.
ALBERTA FILMMAKERS:
The Edmonton Short Film Festival partners with other cultural events to showcase Alberta short films. For only $8 CAD, you will be able to have your film entered for consideration at one or more of these FAMILY events. ALL of these events will pay screening fees for films that are selected. NOTE: To be considered for the gala, Alberta filmmakers still need to submit their films under the appropriate genre category in addition to choosing this add-on bonus.
NEW CATEGORY: Films that address social concerns and injustices may be submitted to the Justice4Reel category. Alberta films under 15 minutes submitted to this category will be considered for screening at the Red Carpet Gala and are eligible for this new award.
FILM MAKERS - ADD-ON FREE WORKSHOP:
Filmmakers will be invited to attend the Filmmaker Skills Workshop AT NO COST ($75 value). A catered lunch to this all-day event is included with your submission. Pre-registration is required (a refundable deposit of $12 plus GST is required - the full amount is refunded upon attending the workshop). Watch for a special email with information about this opportunity!
FILM LOVERS:
Admission to the Gala Event includes a red carpet Hollywood-inspired experience for moviegoers, Alberta indie film screenings, live music, complimentary treats, popcorn and a fun, festive atmosphere. The audience plays a huge role in the success of the evening by choosing their favourite film. The winning filmmaker will be presented the coveted People’s Choice Award and a special cash prize. Doors open at 4:30 PM on October 17, 2020 for the Virtual Reality screenings (5:00-6:30 PM); and the Red Carpet Gala event begins at 7:00 PM.
Sunday, October 18, will feature short films from around the world! Screenings begin at 2:00 PM and continue until 6:00 PM. A concession will be available with snacks and beverages.
Purchase a weekend pass for best value!
ALL films screened will receive a screening fee
AWARDS will be presented in genre categories
PEOPLES' CHOICE CASH AWARD voted by the audience ($250)
