MOTIONPICTUREMAKER.COM

Atlantic International Film Festival - Open For Submissions
2024-01-08 | Cineplex Cinemas Park Lane, 5657 Spring Garden Rd, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 3R4, Canada
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Canada

ABOUT THE ATLANTIC INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The Atlantic International Film Festival has grown into one of Canada’s premier celebrations of film and filmmaking, an essential platform for our regional industry alongside the best new national and international offerings. Celebrating its 44th year in 2024, the festival began as a tiny, grassroots operation in St. John’s, Newfoundland in 1981, relocating to Halifax the following year. Providing an immersive escape and experience for movie lovers, filmmakers, and industry professionals worldwide, AIFF continues to take place at Cineplex Cinemas Park Lane in the heart of historic downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia.
AIFF carefully curates our selections to bring audiences the best local and international films, while industry programming and special events are chosen with our diverse community in mind.
With our yearly lineup of anticipated film screenings, informative industry panels and glamourous galas, AIFF is dedicated to continuing its legacy as one of Atlantic Canada’s premier celebrations, serving as a key destination for people united by their shared love of film.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 8, 2024
Notification Date
August 7, 2024
Event Date
September 11 – 18, 2024

Earlybird
Regular
Late
Extended

Atlantic Canadian Feature Films
March 22, 2024: $35
May 3, 2024: $45
June 7, 2024: $55
June 14, 2024: $75

Atlantic Canadian Short Films
March 22, 2024: $25
May 3, 2024: $35
June 7, 2024: $45
June 14, 2024: $65

Canadian Feature Films
March 22, 2024: $45
May 3, 2024: $55
June 7, 2024: $65
June 14, 2024: $75

Canadian Short Films
March 22, 2024: $35
May 3, 2024: $45
June 7, 2024: $55
June 14, 2024: $75

International Feature Films
-
May 3, 2024: $65
June 7, 2024: $75
-

International Short Films
March 22, 2024: $45
May 3, 2024: $55
June 7, 2024: $65
-

Visit the Atlantic International Film Festival website for more information.

New Orleans Film Festival - Earlybird Deadline
2024-01-19 | N/A
New Orleans, Louisiana
United States

ABOUT THE NEW ORLEANS FILM FESTIVAL
The New Orleans Film Society is a 501(c)3 whose mission is to discover, cultivate, and amplify diverse voices of filmmakers who tell the stories of our time. We produce the Oscar®-qualifying New Orleans Film Festival annually and invest year-round in building a vibrant film culture in the South to share transformative cinematic experiences with audiences, and connect dynamic filmmakers to career-advancing resources.
NEW ORLEANS FILM SOCIETY VALUES STATEMENT

Start with the art and allow artistic vision, equity, and social impact to guide our search for resources.
Champion filmmakers who have been historically denied access to resources and opportunities within the industry–– including Southern artists, women, people of color, LGBTQIA people, and people with disabilities.
Seek deep audience engagement.
Build a working environment that is fair and fulfilling.
Exhibit dedication and passion and believe that inspired and impactful programs arise from collaboration and mutual respect.

New Orleans shines ever brighter as an epicenter of culture and creativity during the New Orleans Film Festival, with 500+ filmmakers from every corner of the world in attendance at 220+ films. We see our greatest impact in the exchange of ideas that occurs when over 35,000 people gather over the course of 8 days to champion film in New Orleans and engage with visionary films, directors, and other film lovers. NOFF is one of the few film festivals that is Oscar®-qualifying in all three Academy-accredited categories.
Diversity + Discovery:
Paste Magazine praised the festival for offering “a platform to voices that still fight to be heard.” We honor three vital commitments to filmmakers and to audiences hungry for fresh work with perspectives less often represented on the silver screen:

90% of the films in the festival will come from submissions, ensuring New Orleans Film Festival is a place of discovery where all voices have an opportunity to be heard
50% or more of the films will be helmed by women and gender non-conforming filmmakers
55% or more will be helmed by filmmakers of color

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
December 5, 2023
Notification Date
August 9, 2024
Event Date
October 24 - November 3, 2024

Earlybird
Regular
Late
Extended

Narrative/Documentary Feature Films
Jan 19, 2024: $46.50
Mar 15, 2024: $56.50
May 10, 2024: $71.50
June 14, 2024: $81.50

Narrative/Documentary Short Films
Jan 19, 2024: $37
Mar 15, 2024: $47
May 10, 2024: $57
June 14, 2024: $72.50

Animated/Experimental Shots
Jan 19, 2024: $32
Mar 15, 2024: $37.50
May 10, 2024: $47.50
June 14, 2024: $57.50

Visit the New Orleans Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Edinburgh International Film Festival - Open For Submissions
2024-01-23 | N/A
Edinburgh, Scotland
United Kingdom

ABOUT THE EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The original festival. We’re the one that started it all, the igniting spark which established Edinburgh as the world’s Festival City.
Our Origin Story
Founded in 1947, the International Festival was the inspired idea of Rudolf Bing, a cultural pioneer and Jewish refugee of the Nazi regime.
He joined with civic and artistic leaders to create an event that would transcend political boundaries through a global celebration of performing arts in Scotland’s beloved capital city. Over the following 76 years the International Festival has flourished, deepening our commitment to artistic excellence and cultural curiosity. Meanwhile, sister festivals have grown up around us, each of them contributing to the atmosphere of unparalleled excitement that transforms the city every summer.
Our Festival
We welcome the world to Edinburgh to experience our hand-picked programme of the finest performers in dance, opera, music and theatre. Through their artistry we create space for reflection and reconciliation, debate and celebration, bringing people of different cultures and viewpoints together.
Our Impact
Shining far beyond what you see on stage, we aim to be a beacon for the enormous creativity, curiosity and potential held within individuals, communities and our nation. We offer year-round pathways for people of all ages and backgrounds to discover and participate in live performance, and to help shape the future of our Festival. By nurturing the next generation of artists – from inspiring primary schoolchildren to mentoring rising stars – we want this legacy to be felt for years to come.
Our Vision
Our vision is simple: to provide the deepest experience of the highest quality art for the broadest possible audience.
Audience Manifesto

Live performance is most thrilling when audiences and artists are in communion with one another. What we each bring into the room matters.
We invite you to listen, gather, seek, and feel with us. Sometimes we listen so deeply we hear every breath in the room; at other times we gather with a joyful roar! We’ll make sure you know what to expect.
We want you to feel truly welcome at our events. We ask and listen to what you need, aiming to remove barriers through our Access Pass, range of prices, concessions and friendly staff.
There is always something new to discover – we hope our audio introductions, post-show talks and ‘inside out’ concerts will reward your curiosity, whether you’re here for the first time or you’ve been with us through the decades.
There is no singular view on why a symphony matters, what makes opera relatable, or how dance makes us feel. If you seek context and depth, we will connect you with the human stories behind these works of art.
We present you a window to the world. Encounter familiar stories in other languages or from radically different perspectives. Bring an open heart and mind, and we’ll provide specific guidance for those who want to feel more prepared.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 23, 2024
Notification Date
June 30, 2024
Event Date
August 15-21, 2024

Early Bird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
March 8, 2024: $60
March 29, 2024: $70
April 19, 2024: $85

Short Films
March 8, 2024: $25
March 29, 2024: $35
April 19, 2024: $40

Visit the Edinburgh International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Edmonton International Film Festival - Earlybird Deadline
2024-02-01 | N/A
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada

ABOUT THE EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The Edmonton International Film Festival Society’s (EIFFS) mission is to present a film festival in theatres to celebrate diverse cinema for audiences. To achieve this, we showcase high quality cinema from around the world to allow filmmakers to interact in a forum that creates and fosters community, while placing EIFF on the global film festival map.
We present films produced within 20 months of each festival. These films are curated from submissions and solicited from distributors. The festival also presents a generous dose of filmmaker chats, Q&A’s, gala screenings, a local filmmaker spotlight, ‘buzzy’ films that are travelling the festival circuit, shorts with lunch, and more. Films are selected on the basis of story, quality and originality. All films must be EDMONTON premieres.
EIFF IS AN OSCAR QUALIFYING FESTIVAL FOR SHORT FILMS — LIVE ACTION & ANIMATION — AND IS THE FINAL QUALIFYING FESTIVAL EACH CALENDAR YEAR.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
November 15, 2023
Notification Date
August 1, 2024
Event Date
September 26 - October 5, 2024

Earlybird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
Feb 1, 2024: $40
Apr 15, 2024: $50
May 1, 2024: $65

Short Films
Feb 1, 2024: $25
Apr 15, 2024: $35
May 1, 2024: $50

Alberta Films (All Lengths)
Feb 1, 2024: $15
Apr 15, 2024: $25
May 1, 2024: $40

Visit the Edmonton International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Hawaii International Film Festival - Earlybird Deadline
2024-02-16 | N/A
Honolulu, Hawaii
United States

ABOUT THE HAWAII INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
HIFF's MISSION
As the vanguard forum of international cinematic achievement in the Asia-Pacific region, Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) endeavors to recognize new and emerging talent, promote career development and original collaborations through innovative education programs, and facilitate dynamic cultural exchange through the cinema arts.
HIFF started as a project of the East-West Center, an educational and research institution created by U.S. Congress and located on the University of Hawai’i Manoa campus in Honolulu. Jeannette Paulson Hereniko was HIFF’s Founding Director, from 1981 to 1996. In 1981, HIFF’s inaugural year, the program consisted of seven films from six countries which were viewed by an audience of 5,000.
HIFF has become a premiere cinematic event in the Pacific and annually attracts more than 50,000 film enthusiasts from around the state, the nation and throughout the world. It is one of the premier film festivals in the United States and the only festival spread across an archipelago.
HIFF annually presents a series of prizes for established and emerging filmmakers at its annual Awards Gala. In addition to its main competitions, the festival also honors filmmakers for special accomplishments and contributions to cinema culture.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 9, 2024
Notification Date
August 30, 2024
Event Date
October 2 - 13, 2024

Earlybird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
Feb 16, 2024: $55
Apr 26, 2024: $65
June 21, 2024: $75

Short Films
Feb 16, 2024: $45
Apr 26, 2024: $55
June 21, 2024: $65

Pacific Islander Showcase Features/Shorts
Feb 16, 2024: $35
Apr 26, 2024: $35
June 21, 2024: $35

Made in Hawaii Features/Shorts
Feb 16, 2024: $25
Apr 26, 2024: $25
June 21, 2024: $25

Visit the Hawaii International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Calgary International Film Festival - Earlybird Deadline
2024-02-23 | N/A
Calgary, Alberta
Canada

ABOUT THE CALGARY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The Calgary International Film Festival's mission is “to entertain and engage audiences by curating the most innovative and compelling films, and creating remarkable festival experiences.”
Achieving our mission includes hosting a large number of participating filmmakers – both locally and from abroad – and connecting them with the audience through interactive post-screening Q&As, networking, and through panels and film talks open to the general public.
Located in one of North America's 10 Best Cities to Live and Work as a Moviemaker the Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF) has grown to be the biggest film festival in Alberta and the sixth-largest in Canada.
Offering over $40,000 in cash and prizes, the festival awards outstanding films selected by the audience and esteemed juries. Showcasing an average of 200 short and feature-length, multi-genre films, from Canada and around the world, CIFF is a qualifying, accredited festival for the Academy Awards® and the Canadian Screen Awards.
Located on the edge of the world's most dynamic filming locations, the festival is known for its hospitality and has been named one of the “Top 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee” by MovieMaker Magazine in 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2023!

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 8, 2024
Notification Date
August 15, 2024
Event Date
September 19 - 29, 2024

Earlybird
Regular
Extended
Final

Features (Canadian)
Feb 23, 2024: $35
April 16, 2024: $45
May 31, 2024: $55
June 13, 2024: $75

Features (International)
Feb 23, 2024: $45
April 16, 2024: $55
May 31, 2024: $65
June 13, 2024: $85

Short Films
Feb 23, 2024: $30
April 16, 2024: $40
May 31, 2024: $50
June 13, 2024: $70

Student Short Films
Feb 23, 2024: $20
April 16, 2024: $30
May 31, 2024: $40
June 13, 2024: $60

Youth by Youth Short Films (Under 18)
Feb 23, 2024: $10
April 16, 2024: $15
May 31, 2024: $20
June 13, 2024: $30

Visit the Calgary International Film Festival website for more information.

Cinequest Film & VR Festival
2024-03-07 - 2024-03-17 | N/A
San Jose, California
United States

ABOUT THE CINEQUEST FILM & VR FESTIVAL
Cinequest Film & VR Festival was voted Best Film Festival by USA Today Readers. Cinequest programs 90% of its festival from paid submissions annually - one of the highest percentages of the world's most influential film festivals, and has helped discover countless artists including: Edie Falco (The Sopranos, Nurse Jackie); Alejandro González Inñárritu (Amores Perros, 21), Deepa Mehta (Water, Midnights Children); Jason Reitman (Thank You For Smoking, Juno); Bryan Singer (The Usual Suspects, X-Men); Mira Sorvino (Mighty Aphrodite); Michael Imperioli (The Sopranos); Renee Zellweger (Chicago, Jerry MacGuire); and Gavin Hood (Tsotsi, Wolverine), among many others. Click here for additional Cinequest Programming Highlights
Cinequest Film & VR Festival (CQFF) will occur both Live in San Jose / Silicon Valley and Globally via its proprietary Virtual platform. Cinequest has been a leader in building community, audiences, and opportunity for film and filmed media via groundbreaking tech and paradigms for decades and will continue the golden combination of live and online post pandemic.
Organizationally set in the home of the world's most influential media technology companies (Apple, Cisco, Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, LinkedIn, Occulus etc.) CQFF showcases premier films, renowned and emerging artists, and breakthrough technology empowering global connectivity between creators, innovators and audiences. CQFF has led the world in its showcase and implementation of the technologies that have revolutionized film making, exhibition and distribution. CQFF's blend of the artist and innovator gains focus through its Maverick Awards. Its Maverick Spirit Awards recognizes artists (Harrison Ford, Nicolas Cage, Elle Fanning, J.J. Abrams, Tatiana Maslany, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Bill Nighy, Sir Ben Kingsley, Rosario Dawson, Spike Lee, James Franco, Neil Gaiman, and Sir Ian McKellen are among the guest recipients). Its Maverick Innovator Award recognizes technologists (including Martin Cooper, father of the cell phone, and Steve Wozniak, Co-founder of Apple Inc.). A Maverick stands apart from the crowd willing to create and innovate from a place of personal yet global vision.
Cinequest connects artists, innovators, media, and audiences as people converge to experience a potent mix of immersive stories from around the globe and breakthrough technologies. Yet, Cinequest's stellar reputation not only hinges on its knack for creating a powerful line-up, but also for securing distribution for many of its honored filmmakers. Netflix, IFC Films, Amazon, MSNBC Films, Oscilloscope, Sony Pictures, Magnolia Pictures, Kino-Lorber, eOne, Lionsgate, PBS, and HBO are just a few of the many that have signed deals with some of Cinequest's success stories. Cinequest Distribution has also successfully released 85 Film Festival favorites.
Also, as an Academy-qualifying festival for the short film categories, Cinequest is proud to honor the winners of its Best Short Narrative and Best Short Animation prizes with a shot at every filmmaker's dream... Oscar gold.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
May 1, 2023
Notification Date
January 31, 2024
Event Date
March 7 – 17, 2024

Early
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films
Aug 11, 2023: $55
Oct 13, 2023: $65
Nov 10, 2023: $70
Nov 17, 2023: $80

Short Films
Aug 11, 2023: $40
Oct 13, 2023: $50
Nov 10, 2023: $55
Nov 17, 2023: $65

Episodic Content
Aug 11, 2023: $50
Oct 13, 2023: $60
Nov 10, 2023: $65
Nov 17, 2023: $70

Music Video
Aug 11, 2023: $35
Oct 13, 2023: $45
Nov 10, 2023: $50
Nov 17, 2023: $60

Visit the Cinequest Film & VR Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Edinburgh International Film Festival - Early Bird Deadline
2024-03-08 | N/A

Vancouver Asian Film Festival (VAFF) - Open For Submissions
2024-03-15 | Cineplex Odeon International Village Cinemas, 88 W Pender Street, 3rd floor, Vancouver, BC, V6B 6N9, Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada

ABOUT THE VANCOUVER ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL (VAFF)
VAFF is the longest running pan-Asian diaspora film festival in Canada. It was founded in 1995 and debuted in September 1997. Since then, tens of thousands of film lovers have experienced a diverse selection of North American-Asian and international films, in English and in other languages.
Vancouver Asian Film Festival (VAFF) is dedicated to promoting and celebrating the diversity and depth of Asian culture and identity in film and media, and to help North American Asian actors and filmmakers more authentically and more powerfully define and express themselves on screen.
Each year VAFF attracts close to 5,000 audience members over its four-day festival and year-round events. It also reaches many more through word of mouth, pre-festival events, and traditional and social media throughout the year.
Through its annual film festival and many other programs and events hosted in Vancouver, VAFF’s mission is to be the “go-to” forum for the public and the film industry to engage in and support the rise of Asian influence in film and media in the world. VAFF envisions a world where North American Asian actors and filmmakers have the resources and opportunities to shape mainstream culture in a powerful and positive way.
VAFF is entirely organized and produced by a group of dedicated volunteers, and is made possible by generous financial support from corporate sponsors, public funders and private donors.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
March 15, 2024
Notification Date
August 25, 2024
Event Date
November 7 - 17, 2024

Deadline
Early Bird
Regular
Final

Narrative/Documentary Features
Apr 15, 2024: $40
May 15, 2024: $45
June 4, 2024: $50

Narrative/Documentary Shorts
Apr 15, 2024: $35
May 15, 2024: $40
June 4, 2024: $45

Animation Features
Apr 15, 2024: $35
May 15, 2024: $40
June 4, 2024: $45

Animation Shorts
Apr 59, 2024: $30
May 15, 2024: $35
June 4, 2024: $40

Visit the Vancouver Asian Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

New Orleans Film Festival - Regular Deadline
2024-03-15 | N/A

Atlantic International Film Festival - Earlybird Deadline
2024-03-22 | Cineplex Cinemas Park Lane, 5657 Spring Garden Rd, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 3R4, Canada

Ann Arbor Film Festival
2024-03-26 - 2024-03-31 | N/A
ABOUT THE ANN ARBOR FILM FESTIVAL
MISSION
The mission of the Ann Arbor Film Festival is to promote bold, visionary filmmakers through the advancement of film and new media art, and to engage communities with remarkable cinematic experiences.

FOUNDED 1963
The Ann Arbor Film Festival is the oldest avant-garde and experimental film festival in North America, founded by George Manupelli in 1963. Internationally recognized as a premiere forum for independent filmmakers and artists, each year's festival engages audiences with remarkable cinematic experiences. The six-day festival presents 40 programs with more than 180 films from over 20 countries of all lengths and genres, including experimental, animation, documentary, fiction, and performance-based works.
Thousands of influential filmmakers and artists have exhibited early work at the AAFF, including Kenneth Anger, Brian De Palma, Agnes Varda, Andy Warhol, Gus Van Sant, Barbara Hammer, George Lucas, Les Blank, Matthew Buckingham, and James Benning.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
July 1, 2023
Notification Date
February 1, 2024
Event Date
March 26 - 31, 2024

Earlybird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
July 31, 2023: $40
Aug 31, 2023: $55
Sept 30, 2023: $70

Short Films & Music Videos
July 31, 2023: $30
Aug 31, 2023: $45
Sept 30, 2023: $60

Visit the Ann Arbor Film Festival website for more information.

Edinburgh International Film Festival - Regular Deadline
2024-03-29 | N/A

Palm Springs International Film Festival - Open For Submissions
2024-04-02 | N/A
Palm Springs, California
United States

ABOUT THE PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
OUR MISSION
The Palm Springs International Film Festival is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization whose mission is to cultivate and promote the art and science of film through education and cross-cultural awareness.
OUR VISION
Palm Springs International Film Society strives for a world in which enlightenment, knowledge and tolerance prevail. We believe film as an art form has the power to bridge cultures and illuminate the universality of the human experience.
The Palm Springs International Film Society enthusiastically pursues its artistic and public service goals; to enrich, to educate, to entertain, to initiate cultural dialogue and celebrate cinematic excellence in any language. Our principle objectives encompass promoting film to an ever-widening audience as a powerful medium that inspires creativity, encourages introspection and compels exploration. The Society aims for a leadership role in providing an extensive forum for multicultural exchange in the Coachella Valley and beyond.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
April 2, 2024
Notification Date
November 8, 2024
Event Date
January 2-13, 2025

Regular
Final

Narrative & Documentary Feature Films
May 31, 2024: $75
June 30, 2024: $95

Visit the Palm Springs International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Victoria Film Festival - Open for Submissions
2024-04-03 | Vic Theatre, 808 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC, V8W 2B7, Canada
Victoria, British Columbia
Canada

ABOUT THE VICTORIA FILM FESTIVAL
The Victoria Film Festival embodies the spirit of the cinematic arts on Vancouver Island. We worship cult films, practice wine & beer sacrifices, offer a ritual of initiation for emerging filmmakers, and bring unique artistic voices from Canada and around the world to local screens.
VFF is open to all forms of creative media, but it is deathly allergic to clichés. Every February, we roust hibernating Victorians and islanders, roll out the pink carpet for the sheer glam of it, and throw a 10-day film festival across the city.
Mission

The mission of the Victoria Film Festival: Impossible.
Why?
The mission of the Victoria Film Festival is to stimulate critical analysis and inspire individuals to recognize and utilize film as a creative tool.
Nah, you’re right, it’s Impossible – but we’re giving it a go anyway. Wheeeeeeeeee!

Vision
We do not look at the world through pink-coloured glasses, we simply see it as pink as a leaf, as blue as an orange, and as rainbowy as our ideas. Come and see for yourself. Or check out our VFF vision prescription eyewear.
Values

Respect
Integrity
Diversity
Open communication
Collaboration
Unique
Forward-thinking

Who do we like to hang with?
It’s been a long time coming but the world is opening its eyes to the brilliance of diversity. We have always shown it in our films and we strive to do it in our office. We go for all the colours and flavours of the world and welcome everyone’s uniqueness. Thank heaven for her, he, and they, you make the world shine.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
April 3, 2024
Notification Date
December 27, 2024
Event Date
February 7-16, 2025

Early Bird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
June 16, 2024: $25
July 14, 2024: $45
Aug 18, 2024: $55

Short Films
June 16, 2024: $25
July 14, 2024: $45
Aug 18, 2024: $55

Visit the Victoria Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Cleveland International Film Festival
2024-04-03 - 2024-04-13 | Playhouse Square
Cleveland, Ohio
United States

ABOUT THE CLEVELAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The Cleveland International Film Festival promotes artistically and culturally significant film arts through education and exhibition to enrich the life of the community.
In other words, we present the newest and best films from around the world, and we do everything in our power to make sure that our audience learns something along the way - about other cultures, about the topic at hand, about the experience from the filmmakers themselves.
Vision: The Cleveland International Film Festival is a leader in helping the world discover the power of the film arts to educate, entertain, and celebrate an inclusive human experience.

Guiding Principles
In pursuing its mission, the Cleveland International Film Festival will:

Set high standards for diverse quality film education and exhibition, placing artistic and cultural merit above commercial appeal.
Connect and work collaboratively with an array of community partners to raise awareness of how film arts deepens understanding of the world and catalyzes positive change.
Provide the best and most accessible audience experience possible.
Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion while fostering understanding and appreciation of myriad cultures and values.
Cultivate and maintain an innovative and forward-thinking organization.
Embed our work into the fabric of the community.
Promote a work environment among board, staff, and volunteers based on integrity, professionalism, teamwork, trust, and respect.
Ensure the organization’s financial stability and increase its financial self-sufficiency.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
July 3, 2023
Notification Date
March 1, 2024
Event Date
April 3 - 13, 2024

Earlybird
August
September
October
November
December (Final)
Extended

Feature Films
July 31, 2023: $80
Aug 31, 2023: $90
Sept 30, 2023: $100
Oct 31, 2023: $110
Nov 30, 2023: $120
Dec 31, 2023: $140
Jan 5, 2024: $175

Short Films
July 31, 2023: $60
Aug 31, 2023: $70
Sept 30, 2023: $80
Oct 31, 2023: $90
Nov 30, 2023: $100
Dec 31, 2023: $120
Jan 5, 2024: $150

Visit the Cleveland International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Chicago International Film Festival - Earlybird Deadline
2024-04-08 | N/A
Chicago, Illinois
United States

ABOUT THE CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The Chicago International Film Festival is North America’s longest-running competitive film festival, presented by its parent organization, Cinema/Chicago. Filmmaker and graphic artist Michael Kutza founded Cinema/Chicago in 1964 to provide an alternative to the commercial Hollywood movies that dominated the city’s theaters.
The Festival opened in 1965 at the Carnegie Theater, where King Vidor, Bette Davis, and Stanley Kramer were honored for their contributions to American cinema. Since then, the Festival has grown to become a world-renowned annual event. The Festival’s in-person tributes have honored such international luminaries as François Truffaut, Orson Welles, Sophia Loren, Rainer Werner Fassbinder, Satyajit Ray, Howard Hawks, George Cukor, Spike Lee, Lucino Visconti, Faye Dunaway, Clint Eastwood, Steven Spielberg, Quentin Tarantino, Sidney Poitier, Patrice Chéreau, Ron Howard, J.A. Bayona, Viola Davis, Bruce Dern, and Kevin Kline.
Seeking out the best in international cinema, the Festival has discovered new talents and opened windows to a world of film previously or otherwise unavailable in Chicago. Over the years, the Festival has introduced creative new directors like Martin Scorsese, Wim Wenders, Bertrand Tavernier, Margarethe von Trotta, and Krzysztof Kieslowski, among many others, to Chicago. The Festival is also dedicated to showcasing films made by filmmakers from across the state of Illinois.
Proceeds from the Festival benefit Cinema/Chicago’s programs throughout the year, including the Summer Screenings Program (May through October), CineYouth Festival (May), and year-round Education Program and Members Film Screening Series.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 16, 2024
Notification Date
September 13, 2024
Event Date
October 16 - 27, 2024
Earlybird deadline entries must be postmarked/submitted online by April 8, 2024.
Regular deadline entries must be postmarked/submitted online by June 10, 2024.
Late deadline entries must be postmarked/submitted online by July 1, 2024.

Earlybird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
April 8, 2024: $90
June 10, 2024: $100
July 1, 2024: $200

Student Film Feature Length
April 8, 2024: $40
June 10, 2024: $50
July 1, 2024: $80

Short Films
April 8, 2024: $45
June 10, 2024: $60
July 1, 2024: $80

Student Film Shorts
April 8, 2024: $20
June 10, 2024: $30
July 1, 2024: $50

Visit the Chicago International Film Festival website for more information.

Vancouver Asian Film Festival (VAFF) - Early Bird Deadline
2024-04-15 | Cineplex Odeon International Village Cinemas, 88 W Pender Street, 3rd floor, Vancouver, BC, V6B 6N9, Canada

Edmonton International Film Festival - Regular Deadline
2024-04-15 | N/A

Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Contest - Early Bird Deadline
2024-04-15 | N/A
ABOUT THE FINAL DRAFT BIG BREAK SCREENWRITING CONTEST
Final Draft’s Big Break Screenwriting Contest is an annual, international feature film and television screenwriting contest designed to help launch the careers of aspiring writers. Writers who have entered Big Break have had their screenplays optioned, sold, and have secured high-profile representation.
Award Categories
This year we celebrate 11 Category Winners, 2 Grand Prize Winners, and a Short Script Winner. Over 60 past winners have sold scripts, received representation or gone on to professional writing careers.
- Feature Awards

Action/Adventure
Comedy/Rom-Com
Diversity
Drama
Family/Animated
Period/Historical/War
Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Thriller/Horror

- Television Awards

Diversity
Half-Hour Pilot
Hour-Long Pilot

- Short Film Award

Rules & Eligibility
Fees and Deadlines

$35.00 – Early Bird Deadline Shorts Standard Entry April 15, 2024
$75.00 – Early Bird Deadline Shorts Standard Entry + Feedback April 15, 2024
$45.00 – Early Bird Deadline Standard Entry April 15, 2024
$110.00 – Early Bird Deadline Standard Entry + Feedback April 15, 2024
$45.00 – Regular Deadline Shorts Standard Entry May 20, 2024
$85.00 – Regular Deadline Shorts Standard Entry + Feedback May 20, 2024
$65.00 – Regular Deadline Standard Entry May 20, 2024
$130.00 – Regular Deadline Standard Entry + Feedback May 20, 2024
$55.00 – Extended Deadline Shorts Standard Entry June 10, 2024
$95.00 – Extended Deadline Shorts Standard Entry + Feedback June 10, 2024
$75.00 – Extended Deadline Standard Entry June 10, 2024
$140.00 – Extended Deadline Standard Entry + Feedback June 10, 2024
$65.00 – Last Chance Deadline Shorts Standard Entry June 28, 2024
$105.00 – Last Chance Deadline Shorts Standard Entry + Feedback June 28, 2024
$85.00 – Last Chance Deadline Standard Entry June 28, 2024
$150.00 – Last Chance Deadline Standard Entry + Feedback June 28, 2024

Dates reflect deadlines for electronic submission of scripts. All entries must be electronically submitted by midnight (Pacific Time) on their respective deadlines.

Submissions

The Big Break Screenwriting Contest only accepts online entry of feature film, television, and short screenplays (original pilot scripts only – miniseries cannot be accepted).
No printed scripts will be accepted.
To enter your script electronically, you must submit your screenplay in PDF format. You are not required to use Final Draft in order to enter the Contest.
All submissions should consist of: – Full-length screenplays (approximately 80 to 120 pages); – Teleplays (hour-long approximately 40 to 70 pages, half hour approximately 20 to 35 pages); – Short script screenplays (maximum 20 pages).
Any entries over 150 pages WILL BE DISQUALIFIED. For feature and teleplay, entries less than 20 pages that are clearly not a screenplay (comic books, etc.) will also be disqualified.
All necessary information is captured upon entry of digital submissions, so title pages should be removed or contact information must be deleted from the title page. The title of the script will be provided to the reader as part of the file name and in the judging form.
Do NOT include personally identifying information (name, etc.) ANYWHERE in your script as this will result in INSTANT DISQUALIFICATION. This includes: – Writers name, WGA or representation info on the title page; – Writers name on ANY page of the script; – Writers name within the script’s file name.
Entry should consist of a screenplay, teleplay, or short script only. Do not include resumes, pitches, synopses, casting suggestions, letters, or other supporting documentation with your submission. Judges will not receive these materials.
The exception is original hour-long and half-hour TV entries, which may include standard supplementary materials, such as lists of recurring characters and future episodes, as part of the screenplay. This information would need to be included within the same file, at the end of the script.
Entrants who select to receive feedback on their screenplay will be given at least 550 words of assessment from a competition reader. Feedback will be automatically emailed to entrants upon its completion.

Contest Announcement Dates

August 23, 2024 (Quarterfinalists)
September 20, 2024 (Semifinalists)
October 11, 2024 (Finalists)
November 1, 2024 (Category Winners)
December 4, 2024 (Grand Prize Winners)

Eligibility

The Big Break Contest is open to any individual who is 18 years of age or older at the date of entry and has access to the Internet.
Employees, officers, directors, contractors and agents, and their immediate families and household members regardless of where they live, or members of the same households (whether related or not) of Cast & Crew Production Software, dba Final Draft and its respective divisions, affiliates, subsidiaries, agents, Big Break Contest sponsors, and advertising agencies (collectively, the “contest providers”), are not eligible to participate in the Contest or to win any prize.
Screenplays under option at the time of submission are not eligible.
Adaptations are not eligible unless the source material was written by the screenwriter of the entry in question. Scripts are not eligible if the source material has been sold, produced, or is currently under option to any third party.
Grand Prize winners in Features and TV, category winners, and Short Script Award winners are not eligible to re-enter their winning scripts in future Big Break Contests. They are, however, eligible to enter different scripts for consideration. Grand Prize Feature and TV winners, as well as category winners, receive a free entry in the 2024 Big Break Contest as part of their 2023 prize package.

Visit the Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Contest website for more information, including multiple entries, co-writers & prize division, revisions, refunds & resubmissions, prize conditions, ownership and industry releases, and general provisions.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Calgary International Film Festival - Regular Deadline
2024-04-16 | N/A

Edinburgh International Film Festival - Late Deadline
2024-04-19 | N/A

Hawaii International Film Festival - Regular Deadline
2024-04-26 | N/A

ScreenCraft Action & Adventure Screenplay Competition - Early Deadline
2024-04-30 | N/A
ABOUT THE SCREENCRAFT ACTION & ADVENTURE SCREENPLAY COMPETITION
Accepting TV and Feature Scripts
ScreenCraft's Action & Adventure competition has consistently led to writers signing with literary reps at companies including Bellevue Productions, Rascality Entertainment, Kersey Management, Citizen Skull, Greenlit Management and more.
So whether it’s a pressure cooker moment, a ticking clock, or saving the world from destruction, we're looking for scripts that can keep us on the edge of our seats.
We are thrilled to welcome Emmy-nominated screenwriter Joe Robert Cole, co-writer of BLACK PANTHER and BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER, as a VIP Mentor for this year’s competition.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
April 30, 2024
Announcements
Quarterfinalist: July 31, 2024
Semifinalist: August 28, 2024
Finalist: September 25, 2024
Winner: October 16, 2024

Early
Regular
Final

Screenplay Submission Deadline
April 30, 2024: $79.99
May 31, 2024: $79.99
June 30, 2024: $79.99

Visit the ScreenCraft website for information about jury members, prizes and more.

ScreenCraft Film Fund Grant Program - Early Deadline
2024-04-30 | N/A
ABOUT THE SCREENCRAFT FILM FUND GRANT PROGRAM
With $30,000 in grant funds available, this unique grant program is designed to help fund your vision.
We consider a range of projects, from treatments to standalone screenplays, to fully-packaged projects seeking finishing funds and will choose 1 - 4 projects to fund. Grant amounts will vary depending on the scale and merit of each project.
ScreenCraft will offer production grants to talented creators for narrative features, short films, TV pilot series scripts, and documentaries that display originality, vision & exceptional potential.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
TBA

Early
Regular
Final

Submission Deadline
April 30, 2024: $59.99
May 31, 2024: $59.99
June 30, 2024: $59.99

Announcements
Quarterfinalist: July 17, 2024
Semifinalist: August 14, 2024
Finalist: September 11, 2024
Winner: October 2, 2024

Visit the ScreenCraft website for information about jury members, prizes and more.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Edmonton International Film Festival - Late Deadline
2024-05-01 | N/A

DOXA Documentary Film Festival
2024-05-02 - 2024-05-12 | DOXA Box Office, 110 - 750 Hamilton Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 2R5, Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada

ABOUT THE DOXA DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL
Our Mission:
To support a better understanding of the complexity of our times through engaging the public in documentary media as an art form.
We’re Committed To:

Cultivating curiosity and critical thought
Promoting the intersection of actuality and artistic expression
Fostering a local and international community interested in non-fiction media

Our Mandate:
DOXA is presented by The Documentary Media Society, a Vancouver based non-profit, charitable society (incorporated in 1998) devoted to presenting independent and innovative documentaries to Vancouver audiences. The society exists to educate the public about documentary film as an art form through DOXA Documentary Film Festival, a curated and juried festival comprised of public screenings, panel discussions, public forums and educational programs.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
November 1, 2023
Notification Date
April 4, 2024
Event Date
May 2 - 12, 2024

Earlybird
Regular
Late

International Films
Nov 7, 2023: $35
Dec 12, 2023: $55
Dec 20, 2023: $70

Canadian Films
Nov 14, 2023: $25
Dec 12, 2023: $40
Jan 3, 2024: $50

Visit the DOXA Documentary Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Atlantic International Film Festival - Regular Deadline
2024-05-03 | Cineplex Cinemas Park Lane, 5657 Spring Garden Rd, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 3R4, Canada

Slamdance Film Festival - Open For Submissions
2024-05-08 | N/A
Park City, Utah
United States

ABOUT THE SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL
The Slamdance Film Festival is a showcase for raw and innovative filmmaking that lives and bleeds by its mantra: By Filmmakers, For Filmmakers. Slamdance has created a track record for showcasing breakthrough artists that is beyond dispute. Filmmakers who first presented their work at the festival are now amongst the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Alumni who have shown their early short films and debut features at Slamdance include Rian Johnson (Knives Out), Ari Aster (Midsommar), Gina Prince-Bythewood (The Old Guard), The Russo Brothers (Avengers: Endgame), Bong Joon Ho (Parasite), Lena Dunham (Girls), Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians), Lynn Shelton (Little Fires Everywhere) and Christopher Nolan (Dunkirk).
The Slamdance Film Festival accepts films in every genre, on any topic, from every country around the world. We spotlight low-budget Narrative and Documentary Features by first-time directors, Breakout Features from non-first time directors, short films across genres, and episodes. We do not disqualify any films based on premiere status or date of completion.
The festival program is selected entirely from our blind submissions pool and no films are given special treatment based on who made them or who they know. Over 200 Slamdance alumni filmmakers are responsible for the programming and organization of the festival. Comprised of a variety of backgrounds, interests, and talents, but with no individual filmmaker’s vote valued more than any other, Slamdance committees have been able to stay close to its original DIY spirit and continue to champion the bleeding-edge of contemporary filmmaking.
"Of all the Sundance myths that developed over the last 35 years, the biggest fallacy is that of being magically discovered and launching one’s career on a snow-covered January evening in Park City. If anything, when that does happen, it’s across the street at Slamdance” - IndieWire

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
May 8, 2024
Notification Date
December 19, 2024
Event Date
February 20-26, 2025

Early Bird
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films
July 8, 2024 : $65
Aug 12, 2024: $85
Sept 16, 2024: $110
Oct 11, 2024: $125

Short Films
July 8, 2024: $45
Aug 12, 2024: $60
Sept 16, 2024: $70
Oct 11, 2024: $85

Visit the Slamdance Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Seattle International Film Festival
2024-05-09 - 2024-05-19 | SIFF Cinema Egyptian, 805 E Pine St, Seattle, WA, 98122, United States
Seattle, Washington
United States

ABOUT THE SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The 49th annual Seattle International Film Festival returns in person May 11–21, 2023 taking Seattle moviegoers on a cinematic odyssey at venues across the city, followed by a week of select films streaming on the SIFF Channel May 22–28.
We are dedicated to fostering an informed, aware, and vibrant community of film lovers.
SIFF believes in film’s unique power to share original stories, diverse perspectives, and rich emotional journeys. Beginning in 1976 with the annual Seattle International Film Festival, then expanding into year-round programming, and our five-screen SIFF Cinema, we have offered experiences that bring people together to discover extraordinary films from around the world for nearly five decades. Our audiences allow us to take risks, host complex conversations, and truly appreciate film.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
August 3, 2023
Notification Date
April 18, 2024
Event Date
May 9 - 19, 2024

Earlybird Deadline
Regular Deadline
Late Deadline

Features
Oct 5, 2023: $70
Dec 21, 2023: $90
Jan 4, 2024: $100

Shorts
Oct 5, 2023: $50
Dec 21, 2023: $70
Jan 4, 2024: $90

Visit the Seattle International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR
