Toronto Outdoor Picture Show

• The 2026 programme will present a selection of feature films from around the world (including Canada) paired with a shorts programme of Canadian works. All film genres and styles will be considered, though EXCLUSIVELY CANADIAN FILMS MAY BE SUBMITTED.
• In 2026, films will be curated to fit a theme exploring cinematic journeys. This theme may be interpreted broadly, but only films that are in some way related to this theme will be considered for this year's programme.
• Submissions MUST BE CANADIAN FILMS (determined by the director's nationality and/or by Canadian arts council or telefilm funding). Films from other countries will not be considered.
• Both Canadian short films and feature length films will be considered. The festival does not screen mid-length films.
• Short films must be no longer than 20 minutes.
• Feature films must be at least 60 minutes, and cannot exceed 120 minutes.
• Films may be fictional, documentary, animated, live-action or experimental in style or nature.
• Films will be selected on the basis of overall quality, fit to annual theme, fit to series audience, and representation of a broad set of filmmaking voices.
• Films are screened outdoors to people of all ages, and therefore all films must feature content generally suitable for a broad audience.
• Films need not be recent. They may have already been screened theatrically or online. If screened previously at other festivals, please indicate that in your submission. Premiere status is irrelevant to TOPS.
• Rough cuts are acceptable provided that the final version will be ready no later than May 1, 2026.
• Once invited, filmmakers will be required to submit their films as a high-resolution digital file for the purpose of exhibition.

The filmmakers of all selected works will be paid a screening fee (following CARFAC & IMAA guidelines), and will be invited to speak to the audience before the screening.

TOPS welcomes submissions from all filmmakers and is dedicated to showcasing stories deriving from all experiences. TOPS encourages submissions from members of equity-deserving groups, including but not limited to, filmmakers self-identifying as LGBTQ+, Indigenous, POC, women, persons with disabilities, and recent graduates. Waivers will not be offered for submissions from other countries, as only Canadian films are eligible to apply.

If you are a Canadian filmmaker and feel you have a barrier to entry, please be in touch so that we may do our best to accommodate you. Entry fees may be waived for equity-deserving artists who contact ibrown@topictureshow.com by January 14. Please note that emails will not be responded to between December 20 and January 11, so please be patient for a response.