Founded in 2003, CUFF is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to programming films that defy convention. Through the screening of contemporary works in various categories that include: feature, documentary, animation and shorts - we bring Calgarians a unique roster of films rarely seen in North American theatres.

We actively look to showcase titles in all genres, from horror, sci-fi and fantasy to comedies, thrillers and music-related films. In addition to finding great films we are committed to introducing you to the people behind the lens, by showcasing local and international indie filmmakers. We are proud to contribute to Calgary's thriving arts community and are thrilled to bring innovative and challenging selections to all film enthusiasts.

Awards & Prizes

Jury Awards:
Best Narrative Feature
Best Documentary Feature
Best Canadian Short Film

Audience Awards:
Best Narrative Feature
Best Documentary Feature
Best Narrative Short
Best Documentary Short

Rules & Terms

CUFF is currently accepting all film/video submissions. Film and Video submissions are accepted in all categories. Please note that for feature films, it must be a Calgary premiere. For short films, Calgary premieres have priority, but it's not a deal breaker.

We encourage local, national and international submissions.

We love all genres, and screen a variety of films from documentary to narrative, animation and occasionally music videos. However we do not screen experimental, non-narrative films. In terms of length, we do not accept mid-length films (30 - 60 minutes).

Note: FilmFreeway payment is in USD only. We do accept submissions through our web site in Canadian Dollars. https://www.calgaryundergroundfilm.org/call-for-submission

Our entry fees are low, with no charges at all for Canadian productions of any length.

GUIDELINES:

1) Features films: must be a Calgary premiere, and not have screened in theatre, local festival or Canadian broadcast before our dates.

2) Short films: Priority is given to films which have not yet screened in Calgary.

3) We do not program films which were finished prior to last years festival.
We are looking for films which are participating in the festival circuit from May 2019 - 2020 onward.

ie. If screening at festivals prior to April 2019 - we do not recommend applying. Please contact if you have any questions: cuff@calgaryundergroundfilm.org
9 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Maxwell Nalevansky

    From incredible programming to even better people, CUFF is the most wonderful festival. Hope to be back very soon!

    May 2019
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  • Zone 6 Films

    Thank you CUFF for showing our film “Tickle My Pickle”. While we could not attend, the festival looked amazing and really showcased a variety of unique films! The website and programming was super flashy and fun too!

    May 2019
    Helpful
  • Mike Hooves

    CUFF has a great venue and the atmosphere and enthusiasm is wonderful. They treat you well and make you feel very welcomed, and are great at following up with communication. It is very apparent they value film and artists and you can see love in everything CUFF does.

    May 2018
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  • Jay Clarke

    I love this festival. They really roll out the red carpet for the filmmakers and instantly make you feel welcome. CUFF has terrific curation and the Globe Cinema is a great place to hang out and watch movies.

    April 2018
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  • Clarissa Jacobson

    Was not able to attend this fest, but had the best experience with how they treated filmmakers - great communication, lots of promo and a nice website and shout out to films.

    April 2018
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