Presented by the Atlantic Filmmakers Cooperative, the Halifax Independent Filmmakers Festival is committed to showcasing bold, boundary-pushing independent cinema. We look for films from new and unique voices that experiment with genre, structure or form. Since its inception, HIFF has showcased the Atlantic region's most innovative works alongside the films of acclaimed visiting artists.

The festival includes feature and shorts screenings, receptions, celluloid installations, daytime masterclasses with visiting filmmakers and one-on-one meetings between local filmmakers and guest programmers from Canadian and international festivals.

The 18th HIFF will take place in June 2024, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

PLEASE NOTE: HIFF only accepts submissions from filmmakers based in Canada.

GENERAL RULES:

1. HIFF accepts film submissions of all genres from Canada-based filmmakers.

2. HIFF only accepts online screeners. We DO NOT accept DVD submissions.

3. All submissions must have been completed after Jan. 1st, 2022.

4. Non-English language films must be presented in English-subtitled versions.

5. Works in Progress are eligible for submission, however films must be completed by print traffic deadline. Please be aware programmers only view the first version of a submitted film and will not accept a revised version of the film later in the submission process.

SELECTION:

1. HIFF shorts are selected by a peer jury of filmmakers.

2. Successful applicants will be notified by April 10, 2024 via email.

3. Due to time constraints our programming team will not be able to respond individually to filmmakers if your film is not accepted.

4. Decisions made by the HIFF programming team are final.

SCREENING:

1. If your film is selected you must send the following to the Festival by April 24, 2024:
• Minimum two high-resolution film stills
• One high-resolution director's headshot photo
• Brief synopsis of the film
• Exhibition copy of the film in high-resolution Quicktime ProRes format
• Online link to film trailer (if available)

2. Filmmakers will be paid a screening fee based on rates set by the Independent Media Arts Alliance (www.imaa.ca).

3. One representative from each film selected to screen will be provided with a pass to all festival events.

4. Your submission of this entry form confirms that:
• You have the legal right to represent and submit this film for consideration to
HIFF.
• The festival is not responsible for any claim involving copyright, trademark, or
royalty infringements related to the work.
• You agree to allow the festival the use of your film and its publicity materials for
promotional purposes.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Lovely people, made me feel very welcome, well presented , organized, friendly, gracious to have been accepted .

    June 2023
  • Jenna Marks

    Halifax Independent Filmmakers Festival is the by far the best festival east of Montreal. It is truly a festival for the filmmakers and those who love auteur film-making. They work hard to bring unique and relevant films to the region and connect their filmmakers to opportunities and artists around the world.

    January 2021
  • Benjamin Stewart

    Had an incredible experience at HIFF this year. The online zoom discussions were great and offered incredible value.. The organizing team worked hard to ensure a memorable experience - extremely grateful for the opportunity to showcase my film!

    November 2020
  • Noah Brown

    Great Festival! Great lineup! Thank you so much!

    November 2020
  • It's always a great experience. Feels like I'm coming home after a long trip!

    June 2019