Celebrating and inspiring community through the shared experience of film, the Grand River Film Festival (GRFF) hosts both an annual non-competition festival and year-round film programs dedicated to bringing bold, reflective and inspiring films to Waterloo Region (Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo).

The non-competition festival hosts local, Canadian, and international films, pairing screenings with panels consisting of directors, film professionals, local interest groups and notable guest speakers. GRFF recognizes the power of film to connect people and is thrilled to act as a vehicle for the community to build relationships and host meaningful conversations within the Waterloo Region.

The annual Grand River Film Festival will run May 2025 fully in-person. GRFF will be showing feature films and shorts during this week, and welcome submissions for consideration of both.

Rules & Terms

ELIGIBILITY FOR FEATURE FILM CATEGORIES

- Selection will be based on quality and form
- Films must be in English or in the original language with English subtitles
- Duration: must be more than 65 minutes
- Entries previously submitted and not accepted may not be resubmitted
- Submissions must be making their Waterloo Region premiere at the festival and must be deemed a new release by the programming committee

ELIGIBILITY FOR SHORT FILM CATEGORIES

- Selection will be based on quality and form
- Films must be in English or in the original language with English subtitles
- Duration: must be less than 30 minutes including credits
- Entries previously submitted and not accepted may not be resubmitted
- Submissions must be making their Waterloo Region premiere at the festival and must be deemed a new release by the programming committee

19 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Zachary Chabot

    I couldn't attend in person but the writer and producer made it! Thanks for showing 'Shoes in the City'!

    June 2026
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  • Amir Zargara

    Thanks for having us :)

    May 2026
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  • David Hall

    Unfortunately, I couldn't attend in person. However, everything leading up to the event was incredibly personable, clear and exciting. I really appreciated the selection and inclusion in this grassroots, passionate event. Highly recommend submitting you film if it fits your project. David (Writer/Director of 'SALVAGE'

    June 2025
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  • Lisa Kockeritz

    I loved screening my short, "Treat Day" at the GRFF. The outdoor venue is fun and unique and the programming was wonderful.

    June 2025
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  • Emily Schooley

    GRFF is a warm and welcoming festival that is clearly passionate about supporting independent voices in cinema. Many thanks for programming The Sweetest Goodbye in your 2025 lineup!

    May 2025
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