The mission of the Toronto Independent Film Festival is to screen the best of low-budget independent film from around the world. The Toronto Indie is a celebration of talented filmmakers working on shoestring budgets.

The Toronto Indie runs every September and offers a fantastic opportunity for undiscovered filmmakers to showcase their achievements in a space where all the key players of the film industry have gathered.

Film Awards:
Feature Film (budget over $250k USD)
Micro-budget Feature (budget under $250k USD)
No-Budget Feature (budget under $25k USD)
Documentary Feature
Female Director Feature
LGBT film
Short Film
Short Documentary
Animated Short
Experimental Short
Horror / Sci-Fi Short
Short Short (under 5 minutes)
Music Video

Screenplay Award categories:
Feature Screenplay
Sci-Fi / Horror Screenplay

All films and genres made with indepdenent spirit and low budgets

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking

  • Attending the screening of COLORS at the Toronto Independent Film Festival, held at the beautiful Paradise Theatre, was an unforgettable experience. Watching my film on the big screen, surrounded by passionate film lovers, was both exhilarating and deeply moving. The atmosphere was electric, and the festival's dedication to showcasing diverse voices in filmmaking was truly inspiring. Thank you

    September 2024
  • Amanda Keeles

    It was an amazing experience to share the music video "Saving Grace" with everyone! Thank you so much for the award! And congratulations to all the winners as well as the wonderful films that were screened throughout the festival 💕

    September 2024
  • Jaiden Reese

    Thank you so much for playing our short film back in September, the Paradise Theater was a great venue and everyone part of the festival, from notification of acceptance to the day of the premiere had were super friendly and great with communicating. I hope to be a part next year!

    January 2024
  • As rookies producing a first short film, we were elated by Mr. Veale's humorous and encouraging words inviting us to the 2023 edition of the Toronto Independent Film Festival.
    More so, after the trip from Montréal, meeting Steve and being treated to a personal grand tour of the gorgeously renovated Paradise Theatre made us feel right at home and part of the family.
    To see our film on the silver screen in front of a receptive crowd was a moment we will forever cherish, as was taking in the warm wave of kudos and advice from seasoned film makers.
    As if that weren't enough, a last minute cancelation prompted Mr. Veale to present our short on a second occasion!
    Such a class act, one of many highlights to a most wonderful and inspiring time in TO.
    Amour et amitié à toute l'équipe!

    November 2023
  • Henry Hagens

    Participating in the Toronto Independent Film Festival was an amazing experience. It has a great community, and a lot of heart. They communicate with filmmakers every step of the way, making sure everything goes smoothly. The combination of incredible hospitality and the wonderful venue of the Paradise Theatre made it a joy to attend. Thank you to everyone there who made the festival so memorable.

    October 2023