GTA Film Fest is a curated independent film screening experience in the heart of Toronto, bringing together filmmakers, creatives, and audiences for an evening of cinema, connection, and storytelling.

This is more than just a film festival — it’s a space designed to showcase bold voices, celebrate emerging talent, and create real opportunities for filmmakers to present their work on the big screen.

🎥 The Experience

Selected films will be screened in a cinema environment, allowing creators to share their work with a live audience — the way film was meant to be experienced.

The event includes:

Curated short film screenings
A live audience viewing experience
Opportunities to connect with fellow filmmakers and creatives
A community-driven atmosphere focused on collaboration and growth

🤝 Built for Filmmakers

GTA Film Fest is designed with filmmakers in mind.

We encourage creators to invite their audience, build momentum around their work, and be part of a shared experience where storytelling takes center stage.

Whether you're an emerging filmmaker, a student, or an independent creator — this is your opportunity to showcase your vision in Toronto.

🌆 Why GTA Film Fest

Toronto is home to a vibrant and diverse creative community. GTA Film Fest exists to provide a platform that is accessible, exciting, and rooted in community — where filmmakers aren’t just selected, but celebrated.

Awards & Prizes

GTA Film Fest is focused on celebrating filmmakers through recognition, exposure, and community.

🏆 Official Selection
Selected films will be screened at the festival and receive an official GTA Film Fest laurel.

⭐ Audience Choice Award
Awarded to the film that resonates most with the live audience through voting.

🎬 Best Film
Selected by the festival team for outstanding storytelling and execution.

🎓 Emerging Filmmaker
Recognizing new and upcoming voices in filmmaking.

All selected and winning films will receive:

Official laurels
Recognition during the live event
Social media features across GTA Film Fest platforms

Rules & Terms

Eligibility & Submission

GTA Film Fest accepts short films of all genres.
Films must be 30 minutes or less in duration.
Films must be submitted via FilmFreeway.
All submissions must include a working screening link.

Premiere Status

Premiere status is not required.
Films that have been previously screened or released online are eligible.

Selection Process

All submissions will be reviewed by the GTA Film Fest team.
Selected films will be notified via email.
Not all submissions will be selected.
The festival reserves the right to determine final programming.

Screening & Event

Selected films will be screened at GTA Film Fest in Toronto.
Screening schedule and order will be determined by the festival.
Filmmakers are encouraged (but not required) to attend and invite guests.

Revenue Sharing Model

GTA Film Fest operates on a community-driven revenue sharing model.
A portion of ticket revenue (up to 50%) may be distributed among participating filmmakers.
Distribution details are determined by the festival and may be based on factors such as attendance and contribution to audience turnout.
Submission does not guarantee revenue distribution.

Rights & Permissions

Filmmakers retain all rights to their work.
By submitting, filmmakers grant GTA Film Fest permission to:
Screen the film at the event
Use clips, stills, and trailers for promotional purposes
GTA Film Fest will not distribute or sell submitted films.

Technical Requirements

Selected films must be delivered in a high-quality digital format (e.g., MP4 or MOV).
Final screening file requirements will be provided upon selection.

Fees

Submission fees are non-refundable.

General Terms

GTA Film Fest reserves the right to make changes to the event if necessary.
By submitting, you agree to all rules and terms outlined above.