The Vaughan International Film Festival (VFF), located just north of Toronto, is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to securing the future of the short film industry. Since 2012, VFF has evolved into a global platform for both emerging and established filmmakers, offering unparalleled opportunities to showcase their work and connect with the broader film community.

Our Vision

More than just a festival, VFF serves as a dynamic hub for filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles. Our annual festival week, alongside special events and screenings, draws thousands of attendees, providing filmmakers with a powerful platform to share their stories. With over 1,400 film submissions from 65+ countries, VFF continues to expand its international reputation.

MISSION: To illuminate the creative spirit in all of us.
VISION: Creating opportunities through the power of short film.

Fostering Future Filmmakers

Through our Inspiring Future Filmmakers (IFF) initiative, VFF is committed to developing the next generation of filmmakers. This program offers hands-on workshops and seminars in key filmmaking disciplines, providing participants with practical experience led by top industry professionals.

Celebrating Excellence

VFF proudly honours industry trailblazers who have made significant contributions to the film world. Past honourees include Canadian director-producer Ivan Reitman (Ghostbusters), Oscar-winner Tom McCarthy (Dracula), Sony Pictures Post Production VP Kimberly Jimenez, actor/producer/writer Josh Zuckerman (Oppenheimer), actress Laura Vandervoort (Smallville), and actor Enrico Colantoni (Just Shoot Me!). These distinguished figures underscore our commitment to celebrating excellence in film.

Join Us

Submit your short film to VFF and become part of a global community of filmmakers. Join us for VFF26 from July 7-9, 2026.

Awards & Prizes

Best Film
Best Canadian Film
Best Director
Best Cinematography
Best Performance

Rules & Terms

VAUGHAN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (VFF) SUBMISSION TERMS AND CONDITIONS

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS & GENERAL RULES:
• Films must not exceed 20 minutes runtime
• Films must be produced after January 1, 2025
• Entries must be submitted on FilmFreeway.com with a password-protected or private link that remains available until the notification date. Films submitted via public links will not be considered.
• Films can contain any language from any part of the world. Foreign-language films must include English subtitles for accessibility purposes.
• VFF considers films that have already premiered at other festivals. Applicants must include the status of the film’s premiere upon submission. Premiere status (World/North American/Canadian) must be updated no later than May 1, 2026.
• Exclusivity Clause: By submitting your film to VFF, you agree that the film will not be made publicly available online (e.g., Vimeo, YouTube, streaming platforms, or social media) prior to its official VFF screening date. Failure to comply may result in disqualification.
• Films must be wholly original and must not infringe on any copyright or intellectual property unless appropriate permissions or licenses have been secured.
• Generative AI Clause: Filmmakers must disclose if any generative AI technology (e.g., for visuals, dialogue, voice, or music) was used in the creation of the film. VFF reserves the right to assess and potentially disqualify submissions that rely heavily on generative AI, especially when such use is not clearly disclosed or impacts artistic integrity.
• By submitting a film to VFF, the submitter confirms they have obtained all rights and permissions required for exhibition and accepts all festival rules and requirements.

SUBMISSION AGREEMENT:
• Processing fees are non-refundable and payable via FilmFreeway
• VFF reserves the right to disqualify any submission that does not meet eligibility requirements
• By submitting, the applicant grants VFF the rights to:
Use all or parts of the film, stills, and filmmaker information for promotional purposes (e.g., website, program, social media)
• Provide screeners to press and media for review purposes
• Screen the film for educational, press, and official Festival purposes
• Exhibit the film before, during, or after the Festival at VFF’s discretion
• These rights are granted without further compensation
• Applicants must include marketing assets (Trailer, Stills, Press Kit, Cast/Crew info) at time of submission
• VFF will make every effort to accurately list credits but is not liable for errors or omissions
• Festival programming decisions, including award selections, are final
• Screening dates and times may be adjusted with at least two weeks' notice; VFF is not liable for delays or cancellations due to technical or logistical issues

IF SELECTED:
• Accepted filmmakers will be notified by email and must confirm participation by the stated deadline or risk removal from the lineup
• VFF does not provide screening fees or financial compensation for selected films
• Travel expenses are the responsibility of the filmmaker
• Final delivery must include a high-resolution version of the film (ProRes, .MOV, or high-quality H.264 MP4), trailer(s), stills, and press kit by the given deadline
• Attendance is highly encouraged

LEGAL AGREEMENT:
By submitting your film to the Vaughan International Film Festival:

• You confirm that you hold all necessary rights for submission and exhibition
• You release and discharge VFF and all related parties from any liability related to your participation
• You agree to indemnify VFF against any claims related to copyright, trademark, publicity, and content issues

You acknowledge that you have read and accepted all terms, rules, and conditions outlined above.

24 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Travis Jeffery

    Having Dusty premiere in Canada at Vaughan International Film Festival was something really special! You could feel straight away how much heart the team puts into every aspect of the festival, from start to finish - it’s not just a film festival, it’s a community. They care deeply about supporting filmmakers from all over the world and creating a space where stories really matter.

    Every part of the experience was handled so well - communication was clear and warm, the hospitality was incredible, and the team went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. The screenings were beautifully run, and there was a real focus on connecting people, which meant a lot.

    We left feeling proud, inspired, and truly supported. A massive thank you to the entire VFF team for giving Dusty such a meaningful place to be seen. I highly recommend submitting for VFF, we definitely will again soon!

    June 2025
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you Travis for your heart felt words! It was a pleasure having you and Dusty at this year's festival! We look forward to your future projects!

  • Kevin Courtney

    The Vaughn International Film Festival is truly a special festival. I can't say enough good things. The programming is outstanding, the events are amazing, and the preparedness and hospitality of the VFF team is truly some of the best I've ever seen on the festival circuit. Looking forward to coming back to this wonderful festival in the near future.

    June 2025
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you for the words Kevin! It was a pleasure having Goodridge: The Price of Glory screen at this year's festival! We look forward to what you work on next!

  • Vanessa Sandre

    The Vaughan International Film Festival is a unique gem in the world of film festivals. It was an honor to have my film, THE PLEASURE IS ALL MINE, screened at VFF 2024 and to be part of such a high-class experience. The festival is exceptionally well-organized, with every detail carefully planned to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
    One of the standout aspects of VFF is its strong community involvement. The festival is built with the participation and support of the local community, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that sets it apart from other festivals. This community spirit is palpable throughout the event, from the screenings to the awards gala night.
    The passion and dedication of the VFF team are evident in every aspect of the festival.
    The staff and volunteers are fantastic, and the best part is that they watched all the films ahead of time, allowing them to engage in meaningful conversations about the programming. The screenings were sold out, and the audience was highly engaged.
    One of my best memories in my career happened during the Q&A after my film screening this year. A lady took the mic to speak, but as she started, tears began to flow down her face. I started to cry along with her as we shared this unique and touching moment. This shows the ultimate power of film to touch deep in our souls and make us able to share our emotions with others.
    Talking about the film selection, the quality of the programming of the festival was exceptional, featuring an incredible selection of shorts from all over the world. This diverse lineup showcased the best in contemporary filmmaking and provided a rich and varied viewing experience for all attendees. The awards night was a highlight, a beautiful high-class event with filmmakers and community, offering a glamorous and memorable conclusion to the festival.

    I’ve attended many film festivals in my life, and I can assure you this is a very unique festival. Antonio, Sara, and all the crew built this festival with a passion for short films, an incredible commitment to community engagement, and a deep dedication to supporting the next generation of filmmakers.
    I highly recommend the Vaughan International Film Festival, and I can't wait to see it grow more each year!

    July 2024
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  • Aurelie Wijnants

    Such an honor and pride to have won the Best Film Award for my film "Just Married" at the Vaughan International Film Festival! Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the festival but I highly recommend it to every filmmaker who has a film to share. Thank you!

    August 2023
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  • Chen Sing Yap

    We had a great time playing our short film at VFF. Their international shorts selection was very good and they had plenty of sponsors and local attention.

    July 2023
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