MOTIONPICTUREMAKER.COM

Atlanta Film Festival Regular Deadline
2025-09-12 | Plaza Theatre, 1049 Ponce De Leon Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA, 30306, United States
Atlanta, Georgia
United States

ABOUT THE ATLANTA FILM FESTIVAL
Now in its fourth decade, the Atlanta Film Festival — one of only two-dozen Academy Award® qualifying festivals in the US — is the area’s preeminent celebration of cinema. The Atlanta Film Festival is one of the largest and longest-running festival in the country, welcoming an audience of over 28,000 to discover hundreds of new independent, international, animated, documentary, and short films, selected from 8000+ submissions from all over the world. It is also the most distinguished event in its class, recognized as Best Film Festival by Creative Loafing, Sunday Paper, 10Best and Atlanta Magazine.
Atlanta Film Festival screenings often include in-person dialog with filmmakers, providing audiences, artists and industry professionals with meaningful opportunities to network, interact and engage. Recent festival guests have included Josh Brolin (NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN), Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam), Michael Ealy (BARBERSHOP), Jasmine Guy (DIFFERENT WORLD), Gary Anthony Williams (MALCOLM IN THE MIDDLE), Pauley Chris Moore (GOOD WILL HUNTING,), Howard Zinn (The Peoples’ History of the United States), Ray McKinnon (THE BLIND SIDE), Walton Goggins (THE SHIELD), Margaret Cho (DROP DEAD DIVA), comedian Jeff Foxworthy, Pauley Perrette (NCIS), Tichina Arnold (EVERYBODY HATES CHRIS), John Sayles (PASSION FISH), Hal Hartley (SIMPLE MEN), Carlos Cauron (RUDO Y CURSI) and Patterson Hood (Drive-By Truckers).
The Atlanta Film Festival is a membership-based 501(c)(3) arts non-profit with a mission to lead the community, both locally and worldwide, in creative and cultural discovery through the moving image. ATLFF presents a diverse slate of year-round offerings for film-lovers, filmmakers, and industry professionals. Year round programs —screenings, parties, panels, workshops, and other educational events –provide a forum for building the community of film lovers and film supporters. By bringing audiences and filmmakers together, the Festival has the opportunity to broaden the perspective of both artists and moviegoers.
Mission Statement
To connect, educate, and engage audiences with the creative industry by supporting artists and providing a platform for their work. We champion cultural discovery, foster artistic growth, and advocate for diverse voices in film and media arts.
History
Positioned at the intersection of art, culture and commerce, the Atlanta Film Festival brings meaning to the moving image by championing the shared community experience, fostering the free exchange of ideas, and nurturing the development of a thriving industry. The organization dates back to its founding as IMAGE Film & Video Center in 1977, an outgrowth of the need for equipment access, networking, information dissemination, and support among Georgia media artists and producers.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
May 4, 2025
Notification Date
February 13, 2026
Event Date
April 23 – May 3, 2026

Hella Early
Early
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films
May 30, 2025: $50
June 26, 2025: $60
Sept 12, 2025: $70
Oct 17, 2025: $85
Nov 7, 2025: $105

Short Films
May 30, 2025: $40
June 26, 2025: $50
Sept 12, 2025: $60
Oct 17, 2025: $70
Nov 7, 2025: $85

Experimental Short Films
May 30, 2025: $15
June 26, 2025: $20
Sept 12, 2025: $25
Oct 17, 2025: $35
Nov 7, 2025: $55

Episodic Content
May 30, 2025: $35
June 26, 2025: $40
Sept 12, 2025: $55
Oct 17, 2025: $60
Nov 7, 2025: $80

Music Video
May 30, 2025: $15
June 26, 2025: $20
Sept 12, 2025: $25
Oct 17, 2025: $35
Nov 7, 2025: $55

Virtual Reality Film
May 30, 2025: $10
June 26, 2025: $15
Sept 12, 2025: $20
Oct 17, 2025: $30
Nov 7, 2025: $40

Visit the Atlanta Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Screen BC Short Film Award Submission Deadline
2025-09-15 | N/A
British Columbia
Canada

SCREEN BC SHORT FILM AWARD SUBMISSION DEADLINE
The Screen BC Short Film Award will provide one emerging filmmaker with an opportunity to further develop his/her/their directing career by realizing a unique creative vision. This program was established to recognize and celebrate the contribution of film and television to the Province of British Columbia.
The successful candidate will receive a $15,000 cash award, plus services “in-kind” valued up to $100,000 from across the industry, enabling the filmmaker to complete his/her/their project with the guidance of experienced industry professionals and support services provided by top supply houses in British Columbia.
Screen BC will assist the winning team to solicit and coordinate substantial donations of “in-kind” services from the membership of Screen BC including production and post production services, equipment and supplies.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
August 25, 2025
Event Date
December 5, 2025

Date

Submission Deadline
September 15, 2025

Visit the Creative BC website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Canadian Film Fest Open For Submissions
2025-09-15 | Scotiabank Theatre Toronto, 259 Richmond St W, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 3M6, Canada
Toronto, Ontario
Canada

ABOUT THE CANADIAN FILM FEST (CFF)
The CFF is a non-profit organization devoted to the celebration, promotion and advancement of Canadian Filmmaking talent
The Canadian Film Fest is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to supporting Canadian independent films and cultivating emerging and established filmmaking talent. Film-loving audiences come to enjoy a diverse selection of 100% Canadian film screenings (features & shorts) and filmmakers flock to the CFF's various industry events to take advantage of essential networking opportunities. CFF's mission is to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling by showcasing Canadian films and filmmakers. By exclusively featuring Canadian films, its goal is to provide filmmakers with valuable showcasing and networking opportunities and to offer the public homegrown productions to view and enjoy.
In addition to film screenings the CFF presents the CFF Industry Series with industry panelists, masterclasses, a screenplay competition with a cash prize and of course awesome parties.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
September 15, 2025
Notification Date
March 2, 2026
Event Date
March 23 - 28, 2026

Regular
Extended

Feature Films
Nov 28, 2025: $45
Dec 12, 2025: $55

Short Films
Nov 28, 2025: $25
Dec 12, 2025: $35

Visit the Canadian Film Fest website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Nashville Film Festival
2025-09-18 - 2025-09-24 | N/A
Nashville, Tennessee
United States

ABOUT THE NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL
The Nashville Film Festival (NashFilm) celebrates innovation, music and the many voices of the human spirit through the art of film. Originally founded in 1969, the Nashville Film Festival is one of the longest-running film festivals in the United States and the first in the South. NashFilm discovers, elevates, and honors filmmakers, screenwriters and musicians from around the world while engaging, connecting and strengthening the community.
NashFilm presents the best in independent film including world cinema, U.S. indies, narratives, documentaries, and numerous short form programs by veteran masters, up-and-coming directors, and first-time filmmakers.
Nashville Film Festival films have won the highest honors in the film world including multiple Academy Award nominees and Oscar awards.
With Academy Award qualifying status and numerous shorts programs, NashFilm has screened many prize-winning narrative, documentary and animated shorts.
Nashville is Music City. NashFilm emphasizes the music in films. Some of the most memorable songs in films have been written and performed by Nashville’s songwriters and artists. In addition to the many films about music and the Music Films in Music City awards, NashFilm presents showcases, workshops, and other events where these songwriters and artists come together with film professionals from Hollywood and around the world to promote collaboration.
With a strong commitment to independent and innovative filmmaking, NashFilm offers some truly unique awards. Filmmakers compete for cash and prizes valued at more than $100,000. Winners of the Short Documentary, Short Narrative and Short Animation competitions qualify for Academy Award consideration.
Filmmakers from across the country and around the world attend the festival every year. Celebrity honorees and participants have included Willem Dafoe, Oprah Winfrey, George Clooney, Susan Sarandon, Matthew Modine, John Turturro, William H. Macy, Al Gore, Nicole Kidman, Danny Glover, Vincent D’Onofrio, Tim Blake Nelson, Joey Lauren Adams, Rob Thomas, Craig Brewer, Harmony Korine, Ashley Judd, Kiefer Sutherland, Joshua Jackson, Brad Paisley, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Patrick Swayze, Christine Vachon, John Waters, Matthew McConaughey, Robert Redford, James Cromwell, Harry Belafonte among many others.

ENTRY GUIDELINES

Entries must not have premiered to the public in-person or virtually before January 1, 2023.
Films that have screened virtually at a Festival prior to the Nashville Film Festival are eligible for submission and competition.
Competition is open to U.S. and International entries. Please check individual categories for additional requirements.
Films submitted in previous years are not eligible for resubmission to the current and open season.
NashFilm will program 1-2 Spotlight sections this year. The films will be out of competition, but contain a highly curated selection of films that share a common theme.
Feature films are 40 minutes in length or longer. Short films are under 40 minutes in length.
Films not in the English language must be subtitled in English.
Entries must be submitted for pre-screening via filmfreeway. If you use a secured link, you are REQUIRED to keep us updated with passwords or your film may be rejected. NO HARD COPIES WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR ENTRIES.
Works-in-progress are accepted but are not encouraged. We can’t promise that we will be able to watch re-edited submissions. Please only submit work-in-progress if you are submitting close to the final deadline.
You may submit multiple entries but must fill out a separate entry form and pay an entry fee for each.
NashFilm employees, including seasonal staff, board members, sponsors, and their immediate families, are not eligible to submit in any category to this competition.
By submitting your work you are giving permission for the Nashville Film Festival to showcase your work at the festival and for promotional purposes.
Any potential prize awards are subject to all relevant federal and/or state laws and are therefore not guaranteed. Prize winners are responsible for providing required documentation in a timely manner and are responsible for any tax liabilities they may incur. Nashville Film Festival is not responsible for providing tax advice.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 1, 2025
Notification Date
August 6, 2025
Event Date
September 18 - 24, 2025

Early Bird
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films
March 5, 2025: $60
May 7, 2025: $70
May 28, 2025: $85
June 13, 2025: $95

Short Films
March 5, 2025: $45
May 7, 2025: $55
May 28, 2025: $70
June 13, 2025: $80

Episodic
March 5, 2025: $45
May 7, 2025: $55
May 28, 2025: $70
June 13, 2025: $80

Visit the Nashville Film Festival website for more information.

Fantastic Fest
2025-09-18 - 2025-09-25 | Alamo Drafthouse Cinema South Lamar, 1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX, 78704, United States
Fantastic Fest Film Festival
Located in the United States, the Fantastic Fest film festival takes place in September in Austin, Texas. It is the largest genre film festival in the US, specializing in horror, fantasy, sci-fi, and action movies. Read on for more information about Fantastic Fest, including the opening submission date, notification date, festival dates, and other important information.
ABOUT FANTASTIC FEST
Fantastic Fest is the largest genre film festival in the US, specializing in horror, fantasy, sci-fi, action and just plain fantastic movies from all around the world. The festival is dedicated to championing challenging and thought-provoking cinema, celebrating new voices and new stories from around the world and supporting new filmmakers. We work with various other festivals, archives, cinematheques and individuals to spotlight lesser-known film regions, luminaries and more in an ongoing effort to expand the general knowledge and appreciation of cinema. We are committed to supporting film in its most provocative, ground-breaking and underseen forms, and giving the audience a chance to find new favorites and future genre classics.
Each year we bring together fans, guests, industry, press and others in an inclusive and fun environment for a weeklong celebration of film in all its forms through carefully curated screenings and events, both in and outside of the theaters.
In years past, Fantastic Fest has been home to world premieres of THE BLACK PHONE, JOHN WICK, FRANKENWEENIE, MACHETE KILLS, RED DAWN, THERE WILL BE BLOOD, APOCALYPTO, ZOMBIELAND, RED, SPLIT, OVERLORD, APOSTLE and THE NIGHT COMES FOR US, while the guest roster has included such talent as Edgar Wright, Julia Ducournau, Noomi Rapace, Bong Joon-Ho, Tim Burton, Nicolas Winding-Refn, Lilly and Lana Wachowski, Robert Rodriguez, Rian Johnson, Bill Murray, Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, Edward Norton, Ryan Reynolds, Patrick Wilson, Matthew Fox, Josh Hartnett, The RZA, Dolph Lundgren, Paul Rudd, Bill Pullman, Paul Thomas Anderson, Kevin Smith, Jon Favreau, George Romero, Darren Aronofsky, Mike Judge, M. Night Shyamalan, James McAvoy, Jonah Hill, Jamie Lee Curtis, Steven Yeun, Danny McBride, Tenacious D and more.
Fantastic Fest has been hailed as one of the “25 coolest film festivals” by MovieMaker Magazine, “the wildest film festival in America” by The Guardian, “a secret weapon for the arthouse market” by Indiewire as well as “the coolest film festival in the world” by IGN.

FANTASTIC FEST DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 13, 2025
Notification Date
August 22, 2025
Event Date
September 18–25, 2025

Earlybird
Regular
Late
Extended Deadline

Feature Films
Feb 14, 2025: $50
April 18, 2025: $60
May 23, 2025: $70
June 13, 2025: $80

Short Films
Feb 14, 2025: $40
April 18, 2025: $45
May 23, 2025: $50
June 13, 2025: $60

Episodic
Feb 14, 2025: $40
April 18, 2025: $45
May 23, 2025: $50
June 13, 2025: $60

Visit the Fantastic Fest website for more information.

Santa Barbara International Film Festival Regular Deadline
2025-09-19 | Riviera Theatre, 2044 Alameda Padre Serra, Santa Barbara, CA, 93103, United States
Santa Barbara, California
United States

ABOUT THE SANTA BARBARA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts and educational organization. Over the past 35 years, SBIFF has become one of the leading film festivals in the United States – attracting 100,000 attendees and offering 11 days of 200+ films, tributes and panels, fulfilling their mission to engage, enrich, and inspire people through the power of film. We celebrate the art of cinema and provide impactful educational experiences for our local, national and global communities.
SBIFF continues its commitment to education and the community through our many free educational programs and events. In June 2016, SBIFF entered a new era with the acquisition of the historic and beloved Riviera Theatre. After a capital campaign and renovation, the theatre is now SBIFF’s new state-of-the-art, year-round home, showing new international and independent films every day. In May 2019, SBIFF opened its own Education Center in downtown Santa Barbara on State Street to serve as a home for its many educational programs and a place for creativity and learning.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
July 1, 2025
Notification Date
January 9, 2026
Event Date
February 4 - 14, 2026

Earlybird
Regular
Late
Final

Feature Films
Aug 8, 2025: $70
Sept 19, 2025: $90
Oct 31, 2025: $115
Dec 3, 2025: $125

Short Films
Aug 8, 2025: $50
Sept 19, 2025: $60
Oct 31, 2025: $70
Dec 3, 2025: $80

Visit the Santa Barbara International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Mountainfilm Festival Open for Submissions
2025-09-22 | N/A
Telluride, Colorado
United States

Mountainfilm Festival Open for Submissions
The Mountainfilm Documentary Festival is now open for submissions! Enter your film now, to be part of this community of filmmakers and change makers, inspiring audiences to create a better world.

ABOUT MOUNTAINFILM DOCUMENTARY FESTIVAL
Celebrating Indomitable Spirit Since 1979
Using the power of film, art and ideas, Mountainfilm inspires audiences to create a better world. Held every Memorial Day weekend, the Mountainfilm festival brings together a community of filmmakers and change makers, showcasing documentary films that celebrate adventure, activism, social justice, environment and indomitable spirit.
Mountainfilm takes place on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded homelands of the Nuchu (Ute) and Pueblo people.
Mountainfilm uses the power of film, art and ideas to inspire audiences to create a better world. Mountainfilm is a multi-dimensional festival that celebrates adventure, activism, social justice, culture, the environment and indomitable spirit. We accept and screen feature and short films on a broad range of subjects. We are always interested in work that focuses on mountains, mountain culture, and mountaineering, but we also showcase films about people who are dedicated to changing the world. See a complete list of films from the previous festival here.
Eligibility Requirements

Mountainfilm is a documentary film festival. If your film is not a documentary, please do not submit.
Feature documentaries are 40 minutes and longer. Shorts are under 40 minutes, including credits.
Film entries may be of any length, from any country, and on any subject in keeping with our mission. Subtitled films should either be in English or include English subtitles.
At this time, we do not accept VR projects.
With very few exceptions, Mountainfilm requires that films have not been screened or broadcast in Colorado prior to the festival. We take other previous screenings, broadcasts, and online availability into consideration when making official selections.
Mountainfilm prefers newer films for inclusion. For the 2024 festival, we are seeking films making their premieres after January of 2023.
We will consider shorts that have had an online presence, though our preference is to highlight work that has not already reached a large audience.

Submission Guidelines

Only complete applications will be considered. This includes full contact information, film synopsis and specs, hi-res production stills, a trailer (features only), a Vimeo screener link and director headshot and bio.
We strongly prefer Vimeo links over FilmFreeway's video uploads.
Your screener link must remain active until June 15, 2024.
Entry fees are non-refundable.
If you are from an LMIC, a BIPOC filmmaker, or a student, please contact us for a submission fee discount/waiver.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
September 22, 2025
Notification Date
April 15, 2026
Event Date
May 21 – 25, 2026

Early
Official
Late

Feature Films
Nov 11, 2025: $50
Dec 16, 2025: $60
Jan 5, 2026: $75

Short Films
Nov 11, 2025: $30
Dec 16, 2025: $40
Jan 5, 2026: $55

Features are defined as 40 minutes and above, shorts as less than 40 minutes.

Visit the Mountainfilm Documentary Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Crazy8s Short Filmmaking Challenge Earlybird Deadline
2025-09-26 | Center for Performing Arts, 777 Homer Street, Vancouver, BC, V2B 2W1, Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada

ABOUT CRAZY8S SHORT FILMMAKING CHALLENGE
Running since 1999, Crazy8s is an annual 8-day short filmmaking challenge that provides support and funding to 6 emerging filmmakers to produce a short film, and provides training opportunities to crew and cast. After a Gala Screening and Afterparty, the films go on to be seen by audiences worldwide at film festivals and on other distribution channels.
Register and submit your short film concept in a 3-minute video pitch, along with the first 3 pages of your script, and you could be one of the 6 winners to make your film through Crazy8s!
Crazy8s accepts all genres of live action, scripted short film pitches including drama, comedy, science fiction, horror, fantasy, musical, etc. We do not accept animation or documentary pitches.
Crazy8s Film Society believes in equality, diversity and community. The program welcomes contributions from all, and is not limited to, people of varied age, culture, ethnicity, gender, gender-identity, language, race, sexual orientation, and religious views.
How Does Crazy8s Work?

Submit a short film concept in a 3-minute video pitch, along with the first 3 pages of your script. A jury of industry professionals and independent film community peers evaluates these submissions.
40 quarterfinalists pitch live, in person, to a separate jury of industry professionals and independent film community peers.
12 semifinalists workshop their full script drafts with professional story editors, and submit a final draft for evaluation by the live pitch jury.
6 finalist winners receive $2,000 each, and an in-kind production package and post-production services worth up to $50,000 provided by sponsors from the local film industry and community.
These 6 teams must complete their short films within the same 8-day timeframe.
The finished films and teams are celebrated at a Gala Screening followed by an Afterparty, the largest single-evening film screening event in Vancouver, attended by members of the independent filmmaking community, industry professionals, and the general public.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
September 5, 2025
Info Session & Pitching Workshop
September 21, 2025
Notification Date
November 12, 2025
Event Date
April 11, 2026

Earlybird
Regular

Short Film Concept
Sept. 26, 2025: $50
Oct. 17, 2025: $60

Visit the Crazy8s Short Filmmaking Challenge website for more information on awards & prizes, eligibility and the pitch.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

New York Film Festival
2025-09-26 - 2025-10-13 | Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, 70 Lincoln Center Plaza #4, New York, New York, 10023, Canada
New York, New York
United States

ABOUT THE NEW YORK FILM FESTIAL
Film at Lincoln Center is devoted to supporting the art and elevating the craft of cinema. The only branch of the world-renowned arts complex Lincoln Center to shine a light on the everlasting yet evolving importance of the moving image, this nonprofit organization was founded in 1969 to celebrate American and international film. Via year-round programming and discussions; its annual New York Film Festival; and its publications, including Film Comment, the U.S.’s premier magazine about films and film culture, Film at Lincoln Center endeavors to make the discussion and appreciation of cinema accessible to a broader audience, as well as to ensure that it will remain an essential art form for years to come.
As an independent constituent of the world’s foremost performing arts center, Film at Lincoln Center presents year-round programming that includes premieres of new films from an international roster of established and emerging directors, major retrospectives, in-depth filmmaker talks, and high profile events. Film at Lincoln Center is one of those rare institutions whose stature is matched by its popularity, each year welcoming an aggregate audience of more than 200,000 film aficionados, filmmakers, and industry leaders of every nationality, age, economic, and ethnic group. The organization has been a pioneer among film institutions and one of the film world’s most respected and influential arbiters of cinematic trends and discoveries. Martin Scorsese, Rainer Werner Fassbinder, Agnès Varda, Wong Kar-Wai, Pedro Almodóvar, Spike Lee, Wes Anderson—over the last four decades there is scarcely a major director who has not been introduced to American audiences by Film at Lincoln Center.
Film at Lincoln Center is best known for two world-class international festivals—the New York Film Festival (the most famous and prestigious in the country), and New Directors/New Films (celebrating new cinematic artists). It runs two state-of-the-art, year-round cinemas, the Walter Reade Theater (268 seats) and the Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center—Francesca Beale Theater (150 seats), Howard Gilman Theater (90 seats), and Amphitheater (75 seats)—and publishes the country’s most respected cinematic journal, Film Comment. Each year the organization presents its annual Chaplin Award Gala Tribute honoring legendary stars and industry leaders of our generation at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall. At various times of the year, Film at Lincoln Center partners with Hollywood studios to present premieres and special live appearances.
Film at Lincoln Center is a proud supporter of the International Federation of Film Archives (FIAF).
DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Date
February 24, 2025
Notification Date
August 15, 2025
Event Date
September 26 – October 13, 2025

Super Early, Early, Earlybird
Early, Early, Earlybird
Early, Earlybird
Earlybird
Regular
Regular Extended
Extended
Late
Extended Late
Final

Feature/Short All Genres
TBA: $40
TBA: $45
TBA: $50
TBA: $60
TBA: $70
TBA: $80
TBA: $90
TBA: $95
TBA: $100
TBA: $110

Visit the New York Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Canadian Screen Awards Call For Entries
2025-10-01 | N/A
Toronto, Ontario
Canada

ABOUT THE CANADIAN SCREEN AWARDS
The Canadian Screen Awards brings together the screen-based industry annually to celebrate the country’s top talent in the film, television and digital sectors at Canadian Screen Week. In 2013, the Canadian Screen Awards were born as the result of a merger of the Academy’s Gemini and Genie Awards, which, respectively, honoured English-language television and film.
Rules and Regulations
Television & Digital Media - Important Dates
Eligibility Period (excluding News & Sports)
September 1, 2024 to November 15, 2025
Eligibility Period (News & Sports)
September 1, 2024 to August 31, 2025
Film - Important Dates
Eligibility Period
January 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026
DEADLINES
Call for Entries
October 1, 2025
Nominee Announcement
March 25, 2026
Event Date
TBA

Early Bird
Final

Television & Digital Media
Oct 24, 2025
Nov 3, 2025

Film
Oct 24, 2025
Nov 3, 2025

Visit the Canadian Screen Awards website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival Regular Deadline
2025-10-01 | The Main Theatre, 115 SE Main Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, United States
Minneapolis, Minnesota
United States

ABOUT THE MINNEAPOLIS ST. PAUL INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (MSPIFF)
Founded in 1962, The Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul (MSP Film) is Minnesota’s foremost film exhibition organization, and a 501(c)(3) non-profit. We bring the best of international and independent cinema to Minnesota audiences through the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival, numerous niche film festivals and series, and daily programming 365-days a year.
We promote the art of film as a medium that fosters cross-cultural understanding, education, entertainment, and exploration. We offer audiences unique opportunities to experience the wealth of international cinema, to engage with and learn from visiting international filmmakers, and to come together and share these experiences as a community.
Our programming serves a growing membership base and diversifying audiences of 85,000+ annually.
MSP Film is best known for the annual centerpiece, the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival (MSPIFF). Presented every April, MSPIFF is the largest international arts event in the region, exhibiting more than 250+ films from some 70 countries each year and drawing growing audiences of nearly 50,000 in 2016.
All films are presented in their original language with English subtitles for non-English dialogue.
OUR MISSION
The Mission of MSP Film is to foster a knowledgeable and vibrant appreciation of the art of film and its power to unite, inform and transform individuals and communities.
Our mission is accomplished through a commitment to exhibiting the very best of new and classic local, domestic and international independent cinema. These notable award-winning films represent many perspectives and experiences and are, for the most part, simply not otherwise available to audiences in the region. And so, through the power of great cinema, we expose our audiences, in a unique way, to a rare mix of cultures, ideas, current affairs and notable filmmaking from around the world.
Our mission is carried out through the annual Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival, regular special themed series, and daily screenings of new releases and classics from around the globe.
DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
July 15, 2025
Notification Date
March 10, 2026
Event Date
April 8 - 19, 2026

Earlybird
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films
Sept 1, 2025: $45 USD
Oct 1, 2025: $60 USD
Nov 1, 2025: $75 USD
Dec 1, 2025: $90 USD

Short Films
Sept 1, 2025: $30 USD
Oct 1, 2025: $45 USD
Nov 1, 2025: $60 USD
Dec 1, 2025: $75 USD

Next Wave
Sept 1, 2025: $0 USD
Oct 1, 2025: $0 USD
Nov 1, 2025: $0 USD
Dec 1, 2025: $0 USD

Visit the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Vancouver International Film Festival
2025-10-02 - 2025-10-12 | VIFF Centre, 1181 Seymour St., Vancouver, BC, V6B 3M7, Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada

ABOUT THE VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (VIFF)
Vancouver International Film Festival is the home of film and film culture in Western Canada.
Driven by passion and curatorial excellence, VIFF encourages understanding of the world’s cultures through the art of cinema. We believe that film has a unique ability to celebrate the complexity of the human condition and that it is our responsibility to steward that power toward creating meaningful change in our world.
Founded in 1982, The Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society is a not-for-profit cultural organization that operates the internationally acclaimed Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) and the year-round programming of the theatres at the VIFF Centre.

Canadian Submission Categories

Canadian Narrative Features
Open to narrative films with runtimes over 25 minutes directed by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident with Canada listed as one of the countries of production OR with 51% or more Canadian financing. Feature length films must not have been broadcast, distributed on VOD/home video, or screened in-person either at another festival or theatrically in the Vancouver area.
Canadian Documentaries
Open to nonfiction films with runtimes over 25 minutes directed by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident with Canada listed as one of the countries of production OR with 51% or more Canadian financing. Feature length films must not have been broadcast, distributed on VOD/home video, or screened in-person either at another festival or theatrically in the Vancouver area.
Canadian Shorts
Open to narrative and nonfiction films (including animation) with runtimes of 25 minutes or less directed by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident with Canada listed as one of the countries of production OR with 51% or more Canadian financing. VIFF will consider short films that have been made available online.

International Submission Categories

International Narrative Features
Open to non-Canadian narrative films with runtimes over 25 minutes. Feature length films must not have been broadcast, distributed on VOD/home video, or screened in-person either at another festival or theatrically in the Vancouver area.
International Documentaries
Open to non-Canadian nonfiction films with runtimes over 25 minutes. Feature length films must not have been broadcast, distributed on VOD/home video, or screened in-person either at another festival or theatrically in the Vancouver area.
International Shorts
Open to non-Canadian narrative and nonfiction films with runtimes of 25 minutes or less. Short films must not have been screened either at another festival or publicly in the Vancouver area. VIFF will consider short films that have been made available online.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 22, 2025
Notification Date
August 15, 2025
Event Date
October 2 – 12, 2025

Deadline
Early
Regular
Late

International Features
Apr 18, 2025: $55
May 16, 2025: $65
June 6, 2025: $75

International Shorts
Apr 18, 2025: $40
May 16, 2025: $45
June 6, 2025: $50

Canadian Features
Apr 18, 2025: $45
May 16, 2025: $50
June 6, 2025: $55

Canadian Shorts
Apr 18, 2025: $30
May 16, 2025: $35
June 6, 2026: $40

Visit the Vancouver International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Heartland Film Festival
2025-10-09 - 2025-10-19 | Living Room Theaters, 745 East 9th Street, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States
Indianapolis, Indiana
United States

ABOUT THE HEARTLAND FILM FESTIVAL
Heartland Film has hosted the annual Heartland Film Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana since 1992. We strive to be the preeminent destination for connecting audiences and filmmakers to experience the transformative power of film. This festival has grown from a four day event with fewer than 20 films to what is now an 11-day celebration that typically showcases 300+ feature film screenings and 200+ filmmakers.
Heartland Film is a nonprofit arts organization that runs the 11-day Heartland International Film Festival in October, the Academy Award®-Qualifying Indy Shorts International Film Festival in July, the Truly Moving Picture Award and other year-round programs.
Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, Heartland Film was founded in 1991 with the mission to curate, promote and celebrate thoughtful and engaging films from diverse perspectives. The films we select and exhibit – whether they inspire conversation, ignite imagination, or shift perspectives – all have one thing in common: they are entertaining films that do more than just entertain.
Over the years, we presented $3.5 million in cash prize – the largest total amount awarded by any film festival in North America – presented 200+ studio films with the Truly Moving Picture Award, and showcased more than 2,000 feature and short films, including eight Oscar®-winning titles. To view our past Festival guidebooks, pictures, films and more check out digital archives section here!
Vision: Heartland Film is the preeminent destination for connecting audiences and filmmakers to experience transformative film.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
November 19, 2024
Notification Date
September 4, 2025
Event Date
October 9 - 19, 2025

Early Bird
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films
Feb 2, 2025: $50
May 18, 2025: $65
June 8, 2025: $85
July 6, 2025: $105

Horror Feature (Specialty showcase)
Feb 2, 2025: Free
May 18, 2025: $32.50
June 8, 2025: $42.50
July 6, 2025: $52.50

Visit the Heartland Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Slamdance Film Festival Extended Deadline
2025-10-13 | N/A
Park City, Utah
United States

SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL EXTENDED DEADLINE
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 14, 2025
Notification Date
December 17, 2025
Event Date
February 19 - 25, 2026

Early Bird
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films
July 7, 2025 : $70
Aug 11, 2025: $90
Sept 15, 2025: $110
Oct 13, 2025: $130

Short Films
July 7, 2025: $50
Aug 11, 2025: $60
Sept 15, 2025: $70
Oct 13, 2025: $90

Visit the Slamdance Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Toronto After Dark Film Festival
2025-10-15 - 2025-10-19 | Scotiabank Theatre Toronto, 259 Richmond St W, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 3M6, Canada
ABOUT THE TORONTO AFTER DARK FILM FESTIVAL
One of the world’s leading showcases of new horror, sci-fi, action and cult films, Toronto After Dark Film Festival has been thrilling audiences for since its establishment in 2006. It is one of the world’s leading showcases of New Horror, Sci-Fi and Action Movies, enjoyed by thousands of attendees each year including film lovers, press, industry and filmmakers. A thrilling cinematic blast for movie fans and filmmakers, Toronto After Dark has been Voted Runner-Up for Best Film Festival in the City by audiences (BlogTO) and One of the Top Genre Film Festivals in the World by filmmakers (MovieMaker). Each year around 1,000 filmmakers from around the world submit films in competition for a coveted screening slot at our October film showcase, packed full of thousands of delighted audience members, seeking new cinematic thrills and chills!
A THRILLING SUCCESS STORY FOR MOVIE FANS & FILMMAKERS!
Inspired by a childhood love of horror, sci-fi and action movies, Festival Director & Founder Adam Lopez gathered up a team of like-minded movie lovers and launched Toronto After Dark October 2006 as a showcase for the latest and greatest new genre films from around the world.
The festival quickly established in the city and by its third edition began selling out of screenings. Many of the current festival team have been with the event since its early years, helping bring the latest and greatest new genre films to movie lovers in the city!
Today, thousands of attendees a year look forward to the thrilling screenings, lively Q&A sessions with visiting filmmaker guests, plus take part in our social events, where fans, press and industry get to mingle with the filmmakers and other guests.
Toronto After Dark audiences have been amongst the first to see some of the most buzzed about genre films of recent years including LET THE RIGHT ONE IN, THE BABADOOK, TRICK ‘R TREAT, TRAIN TO BUSAN, BLACK DYNAMITE, V/H/S, as well as the a recent edition in the popular CHUCKY movie franchise!
Many fan-favourite filmmakers and actors have had new works of theirs screen as part of Toronto After Dark Film Festival including:
Adrian Brody, Alexander Skarsgard, Alyson Hannigan, Angelica Huston, Anna Chumsky, Anna Paquin, Anthony Head, Awkwafina, Bill Mosely, Billy Zane, Brad Dourif, Brian Cox, Chloe Sevigny, Christopher Lloyd, Clancy Brown, Courtney Cox, Crispin Glover, Danny Trejo, Dave Foley , David Arquette, Denis Villeneuve, Dolph Lundgren, Don Mancini, Eli Roth, Elijah Wood, Emma Roberts, Ethan Hawke, Eva Green, J.J.Abrams, Jason Mewes, Jason Statham, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Jeffrey Combs, Jennifer Tilly, Jet Li, Joe Dante, John Landis, John Travolta, John Waters, Kat Dennings, Lance Henriksen, Leelee Sobieski, Liev Schreiber, Lloyd Kaufman, Mark Hamill, Martin Starr, Michael Biehn, Michael Rapaport, Mickey Rourke, Mike Flanagan, Milla Jovovich, Milo Ventimiglia, Natasha Lyonne, Neil Marshall, Ray Harryhausen, Ray Wise, Robert Englund, Ron Perlman, Rosanna Arquette, Sam Neil, Selma Blair, Simon Pegg, Sion Sono, Sonny Chiba, Takashi Miike, Thomas Jane, Ti West, Tom Savini, Tony Todd, Udo Kier, Walter Koenig, William Shatner and Zachary Quinto.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Date
May 8 , 2025
Notification Date
September 30, 2025
Event Date
October 15 - 19, 2025

Early
Regular
Late
Final

Feature Films
May 30, 2025: $75
June 27, 2025: $85
July 4, 2025: $95
July 25, 2025: $105

Short Films
May 30, 2025: $60
June 27, 2025: $70
July 4, 2025: $80
July 25, 2025: $90

Visit the Toronto After Dark Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Philadelphia Film Festival
2025-10-16 - 2025-10-26 | PFS Bourse Theater, 400 Ranstead Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19106, United States
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
United States

ABOUT THE PHILADELPHIA FILM FESTIVAL
Over the past several years, the Philadelphia Film Festival has grown to become not only a local gem that Philadelphians look forward to every year, but also an important festival within the industry as a whole. The quality of the programming has been stellar, known for scouring submissions and Festivals year-round for the perfect lineup for Philadelphia audiences. Past Festivals have featured some of the most highly-anticipated and eventual award-winning films, including Drive My Car, Nomadland, Sound of Metal, One Night in Miami, Jojo Rabbit, Lady Bird, La La Land, and Best Picture Winners Parasite, Moonlight, Birdman (or the Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), 12 Years a Slave, and The Artist.
Mission Statement
Philadelphia Film Society creates opportunities for diverse communities to experience film through initiatives that inspire, educate, challenge and entertain.

About Philadelphia Film Society
Philadelphia Film Society (PFS) is a 501(c)(3) member-supported nonprofit arts organization that creates opportunities for diverse communities to experience film through initiatives that inspire, educate, challenge, and entertain. PFS is the region’s foremost resource for film presentation and education, and is committed to presenting film as a transformative and powerful medium for artistic expression and a catalyst for strengthening community. As the producer of the Philadelphia Film Festival and creative force behind the Philadelphia Film Center, PFS Bourse Theater, and PFS Drive-In at the Navy Yard, PFS raises awareness of film as an important art form in Philadelphia, and serves as a vital piece of the city’s arts and culture community.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
April 16, 2025
Notification Date
September 30, 2025
Event Date
October 16 - 26, 2025

Earlybird
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films (Narrative/Documentary)
May 14, 2025: $50
July 16, 2025: $60
July 30, 2025: $70
August 13, 2025: $85

Short Films
May 14, 2025: $40
July 16, 2025: $45
July 30, 2025: $50
August 13, 2025: $65

Visit the Philadelphia Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Atlanta Film Festival Late Deadline
2025-10-17 | Plaza Theatre, 1049 Ponce De Leon Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA, 30306, United States

Crazy8s Short Filmmaking Challenge Regular Deadline
2025-10-17 | Center for Performing Arts, 777 Homer Street, Vancouver, BC, V2B 2W1, Canada

Hot Docs Early Deadline
2025-10-23 | Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, 506 Bloor St W, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1Y3, Canada
Toronto, Ontario
Canada

HOT DOCS FESTIVAL EARLY DEADLINE
Hot Docs is not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing and celebrating the art of documentary and creating production opportunities for documentary filmmakers. It was founded in 1993 by the Documentary Organization of Canada (formerly the Canadian Independent Film Caucus), a national association of independent documentary filmmakers. In 1996, it became a separately incorporated organization with a mandate to showcase and support the work of Canadian and international documentary filmmakers and to promote excellence in documentary production.
Each year, Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival — North America's largest doc festival, conference and market — presents over 200 cutting edge films from around the world. Year round, it supports the Canadian and international industry with professional development programs and a multi-million-dollar production fund portfolio, and fosters education through documentaries with its popular free program Docs For Schools.
Hot Docs owns and programs the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, a century-old landmark located in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood and the world’s first and largest documentary cinema. During the pandemic, Hot Docs launched the Hot Docs at Home streaming platform to provide audiences across Canada access to first-run documentaries and curated programming and events.
Inspiring change through storytelling
Our mission is to celebrate and advance the art of documentary by bringing outstanding films to our audiences and providing essential programs and opportunities for filmmakers.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
TBA
Notification
Applicants will be notified of programming decisions via email by mid-March.
Event Date
April 23 - May 3, 2026

Early
Regular
Final

Mid-Length - Feature & Episodic
Oct 23, 2025: $70
Dec 4, 2025: $120
Jan 8, 2026: $165

Short (1-40 min)
Oct 23, 2025: $35
Dec 4, 2025: $50
Jan 8, 2026: $70

Visit the Hot Docs website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

New Orleans Film Festival
2025-10-23 - 2025-10-27 | 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 17, 2024
Notification Date
August 15, 2025
Event Date
October 23 - 27, 2025

Earlybird
Regular
Late
Extended

Narrative/Documentary Feature Films
Jan 24, 2025: $46.50
Mar 7, 2025: $56.50
Apr 25, 2025: $71.50
May 30, 2025: $81.50

Narrative/Documentary Short Films
Jan 24, 2025: $37
Mar 7, 2025: $47
Apr 25, 2025: $57
May 30, 2025: $72.50

Animated/Experimental Shots
Jan 24, 2025: $32
Mar 7, 2025: $37.50
Apr 25, 2025: $47.50
May 30, 2025: $57.50

Visit the New Orleans Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Austin Film Festival
2025-10-23 - 2025-10-30 | N/A
Austin, Texas
United States

ABOUT THE AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL
Austin Film Festival furthers the art and craft of storytelling by inspiring and championing the work of writers, filmmakers, and all artists who use written and visual language to tell a story.
Since our inception in 1994, we have used our mission – to further the art and craft of storytelling by inspiring and championing the work of writers, filmmakers, and all artists who use written and visual language to tell a story – as the guiding principle throughout our history and growth. We were the first organization of its kind to focus on the writer’s contribution to film and television, and we pursued this focus with the intention of creating not only a community for writers to engage with one another, but to build a bridge from craft to career. We have been lucky enough to build a family of storytellers from multiple mediums, who come together in both a pursuit and celebration of story.

The AFF Film Competition is here to bring independent filmmakers and their films into the spotlight. Whether your dream is to sign a contract, land an agent, learn from an industry icon, or take home the coveted Bronze Typewriter Award or one of our Audience Awards, it’s simple: you can’t win if you don’t enter.
Moviemaker Magazine once again named AFF one of the 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee! AFF is also proud to remain one of FilmFreeway’s Top 100 Festivals.
AFF’s Film Competition is here to ensure that compelling stories rise above and are given the recognition they deserve.
Most importantly, AFF’s Narrative and Animated Short Jury Winners qualify for consideration for an Academy Award®!
Invest in your career! The value for filmmakers at Austin Film Festival doesn’t stop with our competitions.
Attendees of AFF’s world famous Writers Conference get access to over 175 panels, roundtables, pitch sessions, and workshops, covering every nook and cranny of the art, craft, and business of storytelling through film, television, and digital platforms.
No velvet ropes, no VIP areas. In the words of Ed Solomon “there is no us and them” at AFF. Join AFF in demystifying the festival experience and instead participating in a one of a kind, world class event.
All entrants receive registration discounts regardless of programming status and we urge you to join us in Austin for this year’s Austin Film Festival!

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Date
December 9, 2024
Notification Date
September 23, 2025
Event Date
October 23 – 30, 2025

Earlybird
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films
March 25, 2025: $55
May 20, 2025: $65
June 24, 2025: $80
July 10, 2025: $90

Short Films
March 25, 2025: $55
May 20, 2025: $65
June 24, 2025: $80
July 10, 2025: $90

Visit the Austin Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Canadian Screen Awards Early Bird Deadline
2025-10-24 | N/A

Santa Barbara International Film Festival Late Deadline
2025-10-31 | Riviera Theatre, 2044 Alameda Padre Serra, Santa Barbara, CA, 93103, United States

Miami Film Festival Regular Deadline
2025-11-01 | N/A
Miami, Florida
United States

ABOUT THE MIAMI FILM FESTIVAL
Miami Film Festival is a world-class platform for International, American, and Ibero-American films. The Festival showcases the work of the world’s best emerging and established filmmakers to the diverse cosmopolitan community of Miami. Cash awards totaling more than $100,000 are given in competition categories.
In recent years, the Miami Film Festival has attracted approximately 45,000 people a year, as well as 300 filmmakers, producers, talent and industry professionals from around the world as it showcases more than 100 feature narratives, documentaries and short films of all genres, from 40 different countries. Highlights of recent festivals have included award presentations and exclusive in-depth conversations with film legends Pedro Almodovar, Penelope Cruz, Rita Moreno, Riz Ahmed, Ramin Bahrani, Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Aldis Hodge, Javier Camara, Andra Day, Ari Wegner, Cristobal Tapia de Veer, and Joshua James Richards; and numerous World and International Premieres.
The Festival also hosts dozens of world-class events every year, including the Mercado de Cine Frances y Europeo, which brings together over 40 buyers and sellers from Europe and Latin America; annual events in partnership with VARIETY, including The International Feature Film Award Roundtable; as well as numerous workshops, masterclasses, legendary parties, and industry happy hours.
Historically, the Festival has had the privilege of hosting a noted group of filmmakers and talent, including Barry Jenkins, Isabelle Huppert, Carlos Saura, Richard Gere, Rashida Jones, Sarah Jessica Parker, Lena Olin, Pablo Larrain, Edward James Olmos, Monica Bellucci, Rossy de Palma, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Spike Lee, Andy Garcia, Patricia Clarkson, Stella Meghie, Joe Talbot, Jason Reitman, Lulu Wang and countless more. Simultaneously, it strives to be a beacon of support to local filmmaking talent and has elevated the work of numerous local filmmakers via exciting marquee screenings and generous cash awards like the Knight Made in MIA prize for locally-produced features and shorts.
Major trade publications such as Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Screen and Indiewire attend for coverage and reviews of the films. Miami Film Festival has also made the prestigious “One of the 50 Film Festivals Worth The Entry Fee” list by Moviemaker Magazine in recent years.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
July 1, 2025
Notification Date
February 18, 2026
Event Date
April 9 - 13, 2026

Earlybird
Regular
Late
Extended

All Genres/Lengths
Sept 1, 2025
Nov 1, 2025
Dec 15, 2025
Jan 5, 2026

Visit the Miami Film Festival website for more information.

Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival Late Deadline
2025-11-01 | The Main Theatre, 115 SE Main Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, United States

Canadian Screen Awards Final Deadline
2025-11-03 | N/A

Vancouver Asian Film Festival (VAFF)
2025-11-06 - 2025-11-16 | 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
TBA
Notification Date
TBA
Event Date
November 6- 16, 2025

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

Atlanta Film Festival Extended Deadline
2025-11-07 | Plaza Theatre, 1049 Ponce De Leon Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA, 30306, United States

Dallas International Film Festival Fall Deadline
2025-11-07 | Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Cedars, 1005 Botham Jean Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75215, United States
Dallas, Texas
United States

ABOUT THE DALLAS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (DIFF)
Home of the Filmmakers’ Film Festival
It’s a special time when Dallas and the world come together to celebrate film—and filmmakers. Since 2006, the Dallas International Film Festival (DIFF) has become the place for storytellers and audiences to connect and experience film as a community.
Over the years we’ve contributed more than $1 million in filmmaker awards, hosted more than 1,900 filmmakers, and screened over 2,200 films from more than 50 countries.
Where storytellers and audiences gather
Film is about connection. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to build a community where we can share and experience stories together. With our year-round screenings, education and training, and the largest film festival in North Texas, we bring film home.
State of the Arts
Founded in 2006, we are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization sustained by more than 20,000 supporters, volunteers, corporations, grants and individual donors. We lead multiple educational initiatives to mentor excellence in film, television and digital media. And proudly support filmmakers, theatres and film organizations locally and globally.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
June 1, 2025
Notification Date
March 3, 2026
Event Date
April 23 - 30, 2026

Fall
Regular
Late
Final

Feature Films
Nov 7, 2025: $75
Jan 16, 2026: $85
Feb 6, 2026: $100
Feb 17, 2026: $125

Short Films
Nov 7, 2025: $50
Jan 16, 2026: $50
Feb 6, 2026: $50
Feb 17, 2026: $59

Texas Features
Nov 7, 2025: $50
Jan 16, 2026: $50
Feb 6, 2026: $50
Feb 17, 2026: $50

Visit the Dallas International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Mountainfilm Festival Early Deadline
2025-11-11 | N/A
Telluride, Colorado
United States

Mountainfilm Festival Early Deadline
The Mountainfilm Festival Early Deadline starts now! Enter your film now, to be part of this community of filmmakers and change makers, inspiring audiences to create a better world.

ABOUT MOUNTAINFILM DOCUMENTARY FESTIVAL
Celebrating Indomitable Spirit Since 1979
Using the power of film, art and ideas, Mountainfilm inspires audiences to create a better world. Held every Memorial Day weekend, the Mountainfilm festival brings together a community of filmmakers and change makers, showcasing documentary films that celebrate adventure, activism, social justice, environment and indomitable spirit.
Mountainfilm takes place on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded homelands of the Nuchu (Ute) and Pueblo people.
Mountainfilm uses the power of film, art and ideas to inspire audiences to create a better world. Mountainfilm is a multi-dimensional festival that celebrates adventure, activism, social justice, culture, the environment and indomitable spirit. We accept and screen feature and short films on a broad range of subjects. We are always interested in work that focuses on mountains, mountain culture, and mountaineering, but we also showcase films about people who are dedicated to changing the world. See a complete list of films from the previous festival here.
Eligibility Requirements

Mountainfilm is a documentary film festival. If your film is not a documentary, please do not submit.
Feature documentaries are 40 minutes and longer. Shorts are under 40 minutes, including credits.
Film entries may be of any length, from any country, and on any subject in keeping with our mission. Subtitled films should either be in English or include English subtitles.
At this time, we do not accept VR projects.
With very few exceptions, Mountainfilm requires that films have not been screened or broadcast in Colorado prior to the festival. We take other previous screenings, broadcasts, and online availability into consideration when making official selections.
Mountainfilm prefers newer films for inclusion. For the 2024 festival, we are seeking films making their premieres after January of 2023.
We will consider shorts that have had an online presence, though our preference is to highlight work that has not already reached a large audience.

Submission Guidelines

Only complete applications will be considered. This includes full contact information, film synopsis and specs, hi-res production stills, a trailer (features only), a Vimeo screener link and director headshot and bio.
We strongly prefer Vimeo links over FilmFreeway's video uploads.
Your screener link must remain active until June 15, 2024.
Entry fees are non-refundable.
If you are from an LMIC, a BIPOC filmmaker, or a student, please contact us for a submission fee discount/waiver.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
September 22, 2025
Notification Date
April 15, 2026
Event Date
May 21 – 25, 2026

Early
Official
Late

Feature Films
Nov 11, 2025: $50
Dec 16, 2025: $60
Jan 5, 2026: $75

Short Films
Nov 11, 2025: $30
Dec 16, 2025: $40
Jan 5, 2026: $55

Features are defined as 40 minutes and above, shorts as less than 40 minutes.

Visit the Mountainfilm Documentary Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR
