Krakow Film Festival
2025-05-25 08:00 - 2025-06-01 17:00 (America/New_York) | KRAKOW FILM FESTIVAL, ul. Basztowa 15/8a, 31-143 Kraków, Poland
About Krakow Film Festival
The Krakow Film Festival is one of Europe’s longest-running events dedicated to documentary, animated, and short fiction films. Held over seven exciting days, the festival screens around 250 films from Poland and around the world. These films are showcased across competitive sections and curated programs such as retrospectives, thematic series, and archival screenings.
Beyond film, the festival offers a vibrant cultural experience with exhibitions, concerts, open-air screenings, and filmmaker Q&As. Each year, Krakow welcomes over 500 industry guests—including directors, producers, and festival programmers—as well as a large and enthusiastic local audience.
Awards
International Documentary Competition

Golden Horn – Best film director
Silver Horn – Best medium-length documentary director
Silver Horn – Best feature-length documentary director

International Short Film Competition

Golden Dragon – Best film director
Silver Dragon – Best documentary director
Silver Dragon – Best animated film director
Silver Dragon – Best fiction film director

International DocFilmMusic Competition

Golden Heynal – Best music documentary director

National Competition

Golden Hobby Horse – Best film director
Silver Hobby Horse – Best documentary director
Silver Hobby Horse – Best animated film director
Silver Hobby Horse – Best fiction film director

Additional Honors

Audience Award – Voted best competition film by festivalgoers
Dragon of Dragons Special Award – Lifetime achievement in documentary or animation, awarded by the Krakow Film Foundation
Other special awards presented by partner institutions, associations, or sponsors

Submission Rules

Eligible films must be international productions made in 2023 or 2024, and not publicly screened before June 1, 2023.
To qualify for international competitions, a film must be a Polish premiere; world premieres are preferred.

Accepted Screener Formats

Public or private streaming links (e.g., Vimeo, YouTube) with no expiration
Direct file upload via the official website (formats: MP4, MOV)

Governors Ball Music Festival
2025-06-06 - 2025-06-08 | Flushing Meadows Corona Park, P5R5+2P, Queens, NY, 11354
The Governors Ball Music Festival celebrates music, culture, and community in the heart of New York City. It brings together fans from all over to enjoy:

Diverse musical talent across genres like pop, hip-hop, indie, rock, electronic, and more.
NYC’s cultural energy, with local food vendors, art installations, and brand activations that reflect the city’s creativity.
Community vibes, offering a safe, inclusive space for people to connect, dance, and share memorable experiences.

Since its launch in 2011, the festival has grown into one of NYC’s most iconic summer events, celebrating not just music, but the spirit of New York itself.
2025 Headliners

Friday, June 6: Tyler, the Creator, Benson Boone
Saturday, June 7: Olivia Rodrigo, Feid
Sunday, June 8: Hozier, Glass Animals

Additional performers include Clairo, T-Pain, Tyla, Conan Gray, Mt. Joy, JPEGMAFIA, Mannequin Pussy, The Backseat Lovers, Car Seat Headrest, Royel Otis, and Amaarae, among others.
Ticket Information
As of May 22, 2025, 3-Day and Saturday tickets are sold out. Limited Friday and Sunday tickets remain available. Ticket tiers include:

General Admission (GA): Starting at $359 for 3-day passes (sold out)
GA+: Starting at $575 for 3-day passes (sold out)
VIP: Starting at $899 for 3-day passes (sold out)
Pit Viewing: Starting at $1,499 for 3-day passes (sold out)

Tickets are mobile entry only and can be accessed via the Ticketmaster app or added to your mobile wallet.
Venue & Amenities
The festival will be held at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, offering:

Multiple stages with diverse performances
A variety of food options, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices
Official merchandise and brand experiences
Bars, concessions, and specialty cocktail lounges
Free water refill stations
Secure lockers with charging capabilities (available for rent)

Children 8 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult.
For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the official Governors Ball website.

Berlin Short Film Festival
2025-08-08 - 2025-08-10 | Babylon Cinema, Rosa-Luxemburg-Straße 30,, Berlin, 10178, Germany
About the Berlin Short Film Festival
The Annual Berlin Short Film Festival showcases bold storytelling, emerging talent, and global perspectives in short filmmaking. Positioned as one of Europe’s top platforms for short-form cinema, the festival brings together creative voices from around the world and invites Berlin audiences to experience the next wave of cinematic innovation.
Held in Germany’s cultural capital, the festival celebrates the power of short films across all genres—giving independent creators the visibility they deserve while embracing experimentation, new techniques, and diverse narratives.
Award Categories
A professional jury selects winners in the following categories:

Best Short Film
Best Short Documentary
Best Short Short Film
Best Sci-Fi Short
Best Horror Short
Best Experimental Short
Best Comedy Short
Best LGBT Short
Best Animated Short
Best Short Feature
Best Music Video

Eligibility & Submission Rules

Open to all genres of short films with a total runtime of under 50 minutes
Special attention is given to low-budget, independent, and emerging voices
Only digital submissions are accepted; no hard copies
Films must include English subtitles if not in English
Submit via FilmFreeway, Click for Festivals, or Festhome

Premiere Policy
There are no premiere restrictions—films screened elsewhere are still welcome.
Festival Director
Claudine Biswas
Official Website: berlinshort.com

Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
2025-09-04 - 2025-09-14 | Various venues
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is one of the world’s most prestigious and publicly attended film festivals. Established in 1976, TIFF takes place annually in early September in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
About TIFF
TIFF showcases a diverse selection of films from around the globe, including features, documentaries, and shorts. The festival is renowned for its role in launching Oscar campaigns, with many People’s Choice Award winners going on to receive Academy Award nominations and wins.
Awards
TIFF presents several awards, both audience-voted and juried:

People’s Choice Award: Voted by festival audiences; a strong indicator of future awards success.
Platform Prize: Awarded by an international jury to a film of high artistic merit and strong directorial vision.
Amplify Voices Awards: Recognizes Canadian films and filmmakers from underrepresented communities.

2025 Festival Details

Dates: September 4–14, 2025
Edition: 50th annual festival
Location: Various venues across Toronto, including the TIFF Lightbox
Website: tiff.net

Preparations for the 2025 festival include the renewal of a sponsorship deal with Rogers Communications and the announcement of an inaugural advisory committee for a planned film market launch in 2026.
Festival Experience
TIFF offers a hybrid festival experience, with screenings and events taking place in cinemas across Toronto and online via digital platforms. The festival’s program includes Gala Presentations, Special Presentations, and various thematic sections, providing audiences with a wide array of cinematic experiences.
For more information and updates, visit the official TIFF website.

Toronto Independent Film Festival
2025-09-10 - 2025-09-15 | Paradise Cinema, 1021 Queen Street West, Toronto
The Toronto Independent Film Festival (Toronto Indie) is an annual event dedicated to showcasing the best in micro-budget and no-budget filmmaking from around the globe. Held each September in Toronto, Ontario, the festival serves as a vital platform for emerging and undiscovered filmmakers to present their work to audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors.
About the Festival
Founded to celebrate true independent cinema, Toronto Indie focuses on films produced with limited resources, emphasizing creativity and storytelling over high production costs. The festival screens a diverse array of features and shorts, providing a space where filmmakers can connect with peers, audiences, and industry insiders.
Screenings take place at the Paradise Cinema, one of Toronto’s cherished venues for independent film, offering an intimate setting that fosters community engagement and appreciation for indie filmmaking.
Awards & Recognition
Toronto Indie honors excellence in various categories, reflecting the diversity and innovation of independent cinema. Awards include:

Best Feature Film
Best Short Film (Jury Award)
Best Short Film (Audience Award)
Best Animated Short
Best Documentary Feature
Best Sci-Fi/Horror Short
Best Experimental Short
Best Music Video
Best Screenplay

These accolades aim to recognize and encourage filmmakers who push the boundaries of storytelling and cinematic expression.
Festival Details

Dates: Annually in September
Location: Paradise Cinema, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Website: film-fest.ca

The festival’s schedule typically includes multiple days of screenings, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and networking events, creating a comprehensive experience for attendees and participants alike.
Submission Guidelines

Eligibility: Open to international filmmakers; submissions must be independent productions, typically with micro or no budgets.
Categories: Features, shorts, documentaries, animations, experimental films, music videos, and screenplays.
Submission Platform: FilmFreeway – Toronto Indie
Deadlines: Vary each year; check the official website or FilmFreeway for current details.

Toronto Indie is committed to providing a platform for filmmakers who operate outside the traditional studio system, offering them an opportunity to reach new audiences and gain industry recognition.

Saratov Sufferings International Film Festival of Documentary Drama
2025-09-25 - 2025-09-30 | Dom Kino (House of Cinema), Russia 410031, Saratov, Oktyabrskaya st., 43, Russian Federation
About Saratov Sufferings International Film Festival of Documentary Drama
The Saratov Sufferings International Film Festival is the world’s only film festival dedicated exclusively to the genre of documentary drama. Held every September in Saratov, Russia, the festival was founded over 15 years ago and continues to spotlight theatrical-style documentaries from around the globe.
Saratov has a deep-rooted cinema tradition. Notably, legendary war cinematographer Vladislav Mikosha began his career here at the Lower-Volga Newsreel Studio, the oldest film studio in Russia, established in 1927. Today, this studio operates as a cinema theater and serves as the festival’s main venue.
The festival’s name, Saratov Sufferings, is inspired by an old local folk music genre called “suffering”, known for its emotional refrains and expressive style. Although it is a low-budget festival and does not offer screening fees, participants are rewarded with a welcoming atmosphere, strong community engagement, and a chance to screen their films alongside some of the best in international documentary cinema.
Renowned filmmakers such as Helena Třeštíková, Maria Kravchenko, Alexander Nanau, Kim Longinotto, David Kinsella, and many others have participated in previous editions.
Festival Focus and Requirements
Saratov Sufferings seeks independent, theatrical-style documentary films. It does not accept television-style documentaries or journalistic reports.
This year’s special theme is Volunteering and Civic Activism. The festival welcomes films of any length that explore social transformation and highlight individuals making a difference in their communities.
Awards

Jury Grand Prix
Jury Award for Best Documentary – 1st Prize
Jury Award for Best Documentary – 2nd Prize
Jury Award for Best Documentary – 3rd Prize
Best Cinematography Award (named after Vladislav Mikosha)
Best Debut Award
Special Jury Award
Audience Award for Best Documentary

Submission Rules

Eligible films must be completed after January 1, 2021 (preference for those premiering after January 1, 2022).
Premiere status is not required, though preference is given to films with an open Russian premiere.
Feature-length films that have been theatrically released, broadcast on national TV, or made available on DVD/VOD before the festival are ineligible for competition, unless approved for special screening.
Films not in English must include English subtitles (.srt format).
Submissions are accepted via FilmFreeway.

69th BFI London Film Festival (LFF)
2025-10-08 - 2025-10-19 | Various venues
The 69th BFI London Film Festival (LFF), in partnership with American Express, is set to take place from 8 to 19 October 2025. The event will showcase an array of films, series, and storytelling experiences across London and the UK.
About the Festival
Organized by the British Film Institute, the LFF is the UK’s largest public film event, screening over 300 features, documentaries, and shorts from nearly 50 countries. The festival celebrates creativity, originality, vision, and imagination, presenting the finest contemporary international cinema from both established and emerging filmmakers. Set in the autumn, the festival hosts high-profile awards contenders, screens recently restored archive films, champions new discoveries, and combines curatorial strength with red carpet glamour. It also provides an extensive program of industry events, public forums, education events, lectures, masterclasses, and Q&As with filmmakers and film talent.
Awards
The festival recognizes excellence through several prestigious awards:

Best Film Award (sponsored by American Express)
Grierson Award for Best Documentary
Sutherland Award for Best First Feature Film
Short Film Award

All films selected for the festival are automatically considered for the awards they are eligible for.
Submission Deadlines & Fees
Final deadline for UK and Ireland films:

Friday 23 May 2025, 17:00 BST

Submission fees:

Feature Films (over 50 mins):

Early Bird (by 26 March): £35
Regular (27 March – 7 May): £45
Late (8 May – 23 May): £75

Short and Mid-length Films (up to 50 mins):

Early Bird (by 26 March): £18
Regular (27 March – 7 May): £24
Late (8 May – 23 May): £40

For detailed submission guidelines and to submit your film, please visit the BFI London Film Festival Submissions Page.
Premiere Requirements

Feature Films: Must be UK premieres. Preference is given to films that are World, International, or European premieres.
Short Films: No premiere requirement.

Festival Experience
The LFF offers a hybrid festival experience, with screenings and events taking place in cinemas across London and the UK, as well as online via BFI Player. The festival’s program includes Opening and Closing Night Galas, thematic strands such as Love, Debate, Laugh, Dare, and Experimental, as well as special presentations and restored classics. Additionally, the festival hosts an extensive industry program, providing networking opportunities, panel discussions, and masterclasses for film professionals.
For more information and updates, visit the official BFI London Film Festival website.

Cambridge Film Festival
2025-10-23 - 2025-10-30 | Cambridge Film Trust, 38-39 St. Andrew's Street, Cambridge, CB2 3AR
About the Cambridge Film Festival
Launched in 1977, the Cambridge Film Festival (CFF) is one of the UK’s longest-running and most respected celebrations of independent cinema. The festival presents a mix of local and international stories, spotlighting both rising voices and established filmmakers from around the world.
CFF also embraces the future of storytelling—welcoming innovative formats and supporting global creators through an open submission process. The festival continues to champion filmmakers during a time of change in the industry, providing space for their work to connect with audiences and gain recognition.
Awards
The festival’s unique connection to the city is reflected in its signature “Punt” awards—named after Cambridge’s iconic flat-bottomed boats. Films that premiere in the UK at the festival are eligible for the following audience and jury prizes:

Golden Punt – Audience Award for Best Feature Film
Silver Punt – Audience Award for Best Documentary
Crystal Punt – Audience Award for Best Short Film
Youth Lab Jury Award – Selected by young cinema lovers
Family Film Festival Audience Award

All eligible entries are automatically considered for the relevant awards.
CFF is a BAFTA-qualifying festival.
Submission Guidelines

Eligibility

Feature-length fiction and documentaries must not have been released in the UK, either theatrically, online, or on TV.
Shorts should ideally be UK premieres, but this is not strictly required. They must not be publicly available online in the UK before their CFF screening.
Only films completed within the past 18 months are eligible.
English subtitles are mandatory for all non-English language films. Subtitling costs are the responsibility of the filmmaker.

Fees & Waivers
Submission fees help cover administrative costs and are non-refundable.
Waivers and discounts are available for:

Filmmakers based in Cambridgeshire (proof of address required)
Returning directors or producers who have screened at CFF
Black and ethnic minority directors, who may request a 25% fee reduction
Email subject line should include your film title and the appropriate waiver/discount tag (e.g., “FILM TITLE – WAIVER”)

How to Submit

Films must be submitted via a secure online screener
Filmmakers are encouraged to include pronouns in bios (e.g., “Jane Doe, She/Her”)
Please do not send press materials until requested after official selection
Deadlines and submission windows may close earlier than published

Selection Process

Final selections are made by the CFF programming team
The festival does not provide feedback or enter into discussions about selection decisions
All selected films will be announced on the festival’s website

Screenings & Format Requirements

The festival will operate in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online screenings
All selected films may be shown in cinemas, online, or both
In-person screenings require DCP format
A 1920x1080p digital file with closed captions (.SRT or .VTT) is required for online presentation
Films must remain in the festival once confirmed and should not be withdrawn or screened elsewhere in the UK prior to CFF without approval

Premiere Policy
While premieres are not mandatory, preference is given to UK premieres.
Organized by:
Cambridge Film Trust (Registered Charity No. 1120059)

Toronto Short Film Festival
2026-03-18 - 2026-03-21 | Paradise Theatre, 1006c Bloor St W, Toronto
Toronto Short Film Festival
The Toronto Short Film Festival is a premier event celebrating short-form cinema, held annually in Toronto, Ontario. Showcasing over 100 short films each year, it stands as the city’s largest short film festival, providing a platform for both local and international filmmakers to present their work to enthusiastic audiences.
Festival Highlights

Diverse Programming: The festival features a wide range of genres, including drama, comedy, documentary, animation, horror, sci-fi, experimental, and music videos.
Venue: Screenings are held at the Paradise Cinema, offering an intimate setting for film enthusiasts to engage with the showcased works.
Community Engagement: The festival serves as a hub for filmmakers to celebrate premieres, connect with audiences, and network with peers, fostering a vibrant film community.

Awards
The Toronto Short Film Festival recognizes excellence in short filmmaking with awards in various categories:

Best Short Film
Best Short Documentary
Best LGBT Short
Best Experimental Short
Best Horror Short
Best Sci-Fi Short
Best Animated Short
Best Short Feature
Best Short Short
Best Music Video

These awards highlight outstanding achievements and contribute to the recognition of emerging talents in the film industry.
Submission Guidelines

Eligibility: Open to short films from any country, with a runtime under 50 minutes.
Submission Platforms: Entries are accepted exclusively through digital submissions via FilmFreeway.
Language: Films not in English must include English subtitles.
Premiere Status: There are no premiere requirements; films that have been previously screened or are available online are still eligible.

Contact and More Information
For detailed submission guidelines, deadlines, and updates, please visit the official Toronto Short Film Festival website.
Note: The information provided is based on available sources as of the latest festival edition. For the most current details, please refer to the festival’s official communications.

The 66th Krakow Film Festival
2026-05-31 08:00 - 2026-06-07 17:00 | KRAKOW FILM FESTIVAL, ul. Basztowa 15/8a, 31-143 Kraków, Poland
About Krakow Film Festival
The Krakow Film Festival is one of Europe’s longest-running events dedicated to documentary, animated, and short fiction films. The 66th edition will be held in a hybrid format, with cinema screenings from 31 May to 7 June 2026 and online screenings from 5 to 19 June 2026 via the KFF VOD platform.
Held over seven exciting days, the festival presents films from Poland and around the world across competitive and non-competitive sections. In addition to the main competitions, selected films are showcased through curated programmes and special screenings.
Beyond film screenings, the festival offers a vibrant cultural experience featuring industry events, filmmaker meetings, and opportunities for international collaboration. Each year, Krakow welcomes hundreds of industry guests — including directors, producers, and festival programmers — alongside a large and enthusiastic local audience.
Awards
International Documentary Competition

Golden Horn – Best film director
Silver Horn – Director of a film of outstanding artistic value
Silver Horn – Director of a film focusing on social issues

International Short Film Competition

Golden Dragon – Best film director
Silver Dragon – Best documentary film director
Silver Dragon – Best animated film director
Silver Dragon – Best fiction film director

International DocFilmMusic Competition

Golden Heynal – Best music documentary director

National Competition (Polish Films Only)

Golden Hobby Horse – Best documentary (over 30 minutes)
Golden Hobby Horse – Best documentary (up to 30 minutes)
Golden Hobby Horse – Best animated film
Golden Hobby Horse – Best fiction film

Additional Honors

Audience Award – Best film selected by festival audiences
Dragon of Dragons Special Award – Lifetime achievement in documentary or animation, granted by the Programme Council of the Krakow Film Foundation
Other special awards presented by partner institutions, associations, or sponsors.

Submission Rules
Eligibility

Foreign films made in 2025 or 2026 that have not been publicly screened before 2 June 2025 may be eligible for international competitions.
Polish films made in 2025 and 2026 are eligible for the National Competition.
Films submitted to previous editions are not eligible.

Competition Categories

International Documentary Competition – Documentary films, 50 minutes or longer
International Short Film Competition – Documentary, animation, or fiction films up to 30 minutes
International DocFilmMusic Competition – Music documentaries, 50 minutes or longer
National Competition – Polish films only

Premiere Requirements

To qualify for international competitions, films must be Polish premieres, with world premieres preferred.
Films must not have been screened at festivals, released theatrically, broadcast on TV, or streamed online in Poland prior to the festival.
Polish premieres are also required for the National Competition.

Language Requirements

Preview and screening copies must include English subtitles, unless English is the original language.

Submission Deadlines
International Competitions

30 November 2025 – Films completed before 31 October 2025
31 January 2026 – Films completed after 31 October 2025

National Competition

30 November 2025 – Films completed before 31 October 2025
15 February 2026 – Films completed after 31 October 2025

Entry Fees

EUR 15 – Films up to 30 minutes
EUR 30 – Films over 30 minutes

Entry fees must be paid within seven days of registration.
Please note:

Polish films are exempt from entry fees.
Selected countries may also qualify for fee exemptions.

Accepted Screener Formats
Films must be submitted by:

Completing the online entry form via the official festival website
Providing a non-public streaming link (e.g., Vimeo or YouTube) with unlimited access and no time or territory restrictions

Links requiring file downloads (such as WeTransfer) are not accepted.

Festival Screenings & Format Requirements

Screenings take place both in cinemas and online via KFF VOD.
Online screenings are geo-blocked and available only within Poland.
Films selected for the festival may be included in the KFF Video Library for accredited industry participants.
Only DCP format is accepted for cinema screenings.
Screening copies must be delivered or uploaded by 30 April 2026.

Additional Information

Selected filmmakers will be informed by email at least 30 days before the festival starts.
Once accepted, films cannot be withdrawn from the programme.
Submission of a film confirms acceptance of the festival’s rules and regulations.

Cambridge Short Film Festival
2026-07-11 | Cambridge Junction, Clifton Way England, CB1 7GX, United Kingdom
The Cambridge Short Film Festival is an international event dedicated to celebrating short-form cinema from around the world. It provides a welcoming and inclusive platform for both emerging and experienced filmmakers to present bold, original short films to audiences, peers, and industry professionals. The festival takes place in Cambridge, UK, with screenings hosted at the Cambridge Junction, a vibrant arts venue known for its creative and community-focused programming.
About the Festival
The festival’s mission is to discover and promote exceptional short films while supporting filmmakers at all stages of their careers. It highlights imaginative storytelling and diverse voices, fostering connections between creators and audiences. Filmmakers from all backgrounds and levels of experience are invited to submit their work.
The next edition of the festival is scheduled for July 11, 2026, continuing its tradition of showcasing ambitious and innovative short films in the historic and culturally rich city of Cambridge.
Award Categories
The Cambridge Short Film Festival honors outstanding short films across a variety of categories, which may include:

Best Short Film
Best Feature Film
Best Documentary Short
Best Indie Short (low budget)
Best Animation
Best Comedy
Best Drama
Best Romance
Best LGBTQ Film
Best Horror
Best Thriller
Best Action
Best Sci‑Fi
Best Fantasy
Best Experimental
Best Actor
Best Actress
Best Music Video

These awards recognize creative excellence and help raise the profile of filmmakers in the industry.
Submission Rules

Films that are not in English must include English subtitles.
There are no fee waivers; all submission fees are non‑refundable.
Multiple entries from the same filmmaker are accepted, but each entry requires a separate submission and fee.
Submitted films must be the original work of the entrant and must not infringe on any third‑party rights.
The festival may retain copies of submitted films for its own library and promotional use, including broadcast or online exhibition.
Organizers reserve the right to change dates, venues, awards, and categories without prior notice.

How to Submit
Filmmakers can submit their work through the festival’s online submission platform on FilmFreeway. Check the official festival page for the most up‑to‑date deadlines and entry details.
For more information, visit the official Cambridge Short Film Festival website or its FilmFreeway profile.

Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
2026-09-10 - 2026-09-20 | Various venues
About the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is one of the world’s most prestigious and widely attended film festivals. Established in 1976, TIFF takes place annually in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and is recognized as one of the most important cultural events celebrating new cinema from around the world.
The 2026 Toronto International Film Festival presented by Rogers will run from September 10–20, 2026, bringing together film lovers, filmmakers, industry professionals, and media for eleven days of screenings, premieres, and industry events.

About TIFF
TIFF showcases a diverse selection of films from around the globe, including feature films, documentaries, shorts, and series. Known for its bold programming and strong audience engagement, the festival highlights both established auteurs and emerging talent.
The festival is widely regarded as a key launchpad for awards season, with many People’s Choice Award winners going on to receive Academy Award nominations and wins.
As one of the world’s most influential film events, TIFF continues to set the standard for excellence in film programming while fostering cultural discovery through cinema.

Awards
TIFF presents several awards, including audience-voted and juried honours:

People’s Choice Award – Voted by festival audiences and often seen as a strong indicator of future awards success.
Platform Prize – Awarded by an international jury to a film demonstrating strong artistic merit and directorial vision.
Amplify Voices Awards – Recognizes Canadian films and filmmakers from underrepresented communities.

2026 Festival Details

Dates: September 10–20, 2026
Location: Various venues across Toronto, including TIFF Lightbox
Website: tiff.net

2025 Festival Highlights

216 feature films, 66 short films, and 10 series screened from 79 countries
More than 760,000 attendees
5,000 accredited industry delegates
Over 1,900 accredited journalists
Five-day Industry Conference featuring 45+ panels and 160+ speakers
More than 480,000 visitors on Festival Street
Over 9,000 international and Canadian submissions

Submission Deadlines & Fees (2026)
Key Dates

Submissions Open: February 27, 2026
Early-Bird Deadline: March 27, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)
Standard Deadline: May 8, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)

TIFF Industry Members receive a 15% discount on submission fees.
Early-Bird Submission Fees (CAD)

Canadian Features: $90
Canadian Documentary Features: $90
Canadian Shorts: $50
International Features: $120
International Documentary Features: $120
International Shorts: $75
Primetime: $75

Standard Submission Fees (CAD)

Canadian Features: $155
Canadian Documentary Features: $155
Canadian Shorts: $75
International Features: $155
International Documentary Features: $155
International Shorts: $95
Primetime: $100

Please note: The Wavelengths category is invitation-only by the TIFF programming team.

Festival Experience
TIFF offers a dynamic festival experience with screenings and events taking place across cinemas in Toronto, alongside industry programming and public engagement activities.
The programme typically includes:

Gala Presentations
Special Presentations
Platform and Discovery sections
Industry Conference panels and networking events
Festival Street public events and activations

TIFF continues to serve as a major hub for global cinema, bringing together audiences and industry professionals while showcasing some of the year’s most anticipated films.

Additional Information
TIFF is a festival accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). For more information, submission details, and updates, visit the official TIFF website.

70th BFI London Film Festival (LFF)
2026-10-07 - 2026-10-18 | Various venues
The 70th BFI London Film Festival (LFF)
The 70th BFI London Film Festival (LFF), presented by the British Film Institute in partnership with American Express, is scheduled to take place in October 2026. The festival will showcase an exciting range of films and storytelling experiences across London and the UK.

About the Festival
Organized by the British Film Institute, the LFF is the UK’s largest public film event, screening hundreds of features, documentaries, and short films from around the world. The festival celebrates creativity, originality, vision, and imagination, presenting outstanding contemporary international cinema from both established and emerging filmmakers.
Held each autumn, the festival brings together high-profile awards contenders, newly restored archive titles, and bold new discoveries. It combines strong curatorial vision with red-carpet premieres while offering an extensive programme of industry events, public forums, education events, lectures, masterclasses, and Q&As with filmmakers and film talent.
The festival runs for approximately 12 days, with films screened across BFI Southbank, central London venues, and online via BFI Player where applicable.

Awards
The festival recognises excellence through several prestigious awards:

Best Film Award (sponsored by American Express)
Grierson Award for Best Documentary
Sutherland Award for Best First Feature Film
Short Film Award

All films selected for the festival are automatically considered for the awards for which they are eligible.

Submission Deadlines & Fees
Final Deadline (UK & Ireland Films)
Friday 22 May 2026 — 17:00 BST(Deadlines are strictly based on British Summer Time.
Submission Fees
Feature Films (UK & Ireland – over 36 mins):

Early Bird (by 25 March 2026): £36
Regular (25 March – 6 May 2026): £47
Late (6 May – 22 May 2026): £82

Short Films (UK & Ireland – 35 mins or less):

Early Bird (by 25 March 2026): £19
Regular (25 March – 6 May 2026): £26
Late (6 May – 22 May 2026): £47
Please note:
The festival is currently accepting UK & Ireland productions only through open submissions.
International open submissions are not currently accepted, though filmmakers from underrepresented regions may contact the festival directly.

Submission Process
Films must be submitted via the official online submission form and payment system.
A secure online screener link with password is required.
FilmFreeway is not used for submissions.
Downloadable files or email submissions are not accepted.
Screeners must remain active through the end of August.

Premiere Requirements
Feature Films
Must be UK premieres.
Prior public screenings, online release, TV broadcasts, or UK festival screenings make films ineligible.
Preference is given to World, International, or European premieres in competition sections.
Short Films
No premiere requirement.
Shorts may have screened publicly anywhere in the world and remain eligible.
UK, European, and World premieres are prioritised for the Short Film Competition.

Eligibility Requirements
Feature and short films must have been produced within 12 months prior to the festival start date.
Films that screened before the previous edition of the festival may be ineligible.
Only UK and Irish productions are eligible for open submission.
Non-English language films must include English subtitles.

Festival Experience
The LFF offers a hybrid festival experience, with screenings and events taking place in cinemas across London and, where applicable, online through BFI Player.
The programme typically includes:

Opening and Closing Night Galas

Competition sections and special presentations

Thematic strands and curated programmes

Restored classics and archive cinema

Industry networking events, panels, and masterclasses

The festival also welcomes accredited national and international press, distributors, and film buyers, making it a key industry event as well as a public celebration of cinema.

Official Selection & Delivery
Programming decisions are made by the Artistic Director and programming team.
Selected films must supply a fully compliant DCP.
The festival may assist with DCP creation at additional cost if needed.
Exhibition materials are insured by the festival while in its possession.
Submission fees are non-refundable, and no feedback is provided for non-selected films.

Additional Information
For detailed submission guidelines and official updates, filmmakers should refer to the official BFI London Film Festival website.

Cambridge Film Festival
2026-10-22 - 2026-11-01 | Cambridge Film Trust, 38-39 St. Andrew's Street, Cambridge, CB2 3AR
About the Cambridge Film Festival
Founded in 1977, the Cambridge Film Festival (CFF) is the UK’s third-longest-running film festival and one of the country’s most respected celebrations of independent cinema. As a BAFTA and BIFA-qualifying event, the festival showcases bold and imaginative filmmaking in all its forms — from international discoveries and UK premieres to artist cinema, restored classics, and emerging voices.
Now entering its 45th edition, CFF continues to spotlight fresh perspectives, challenge cinematic boundaries, and connect audiences with powerful stories from around the world. Whether you are a debut filmmaker or an established director, the festival offers a supportive and high-profile platform for your work.
CFF also embraces the future of storytelling, welcoming innovative formats and supporting global creators through an open submission process. With a strong commitment to accessibility, representation, and filmmaker development, the festival remains dedicated to creating meaningful connections between artists and audiences.

What Sets CFF Apart

Industry Day – A hub for filmmaker development featuring talks, panels, and workshops led by respected industry figures. It provides opportunities for filmmakers at all career stages to learn, grow, and connect.

CFF Youth Lab – Led by young programmers aged 16–24, Youth Lab empowers the next generation through workshops, mentoring, and active participation in the festival, including selection of the Youth Lab Jury Award.

A Culture of Inclusion – CFF champions underrepresented voices both on and off screen. Many screenings include relaxed formats, descriptive subtitles, and BSL interpretation to improve accessibility.

With a rich legacy of showcasing groundbreaking cinema and a reputation for warm hospitality, CFF continues to be a welcoming space for filmmakers worldwide.

Awards & Prizes
CFF presents a range of jury and audience awards to celebrate outstanding filmmaking.
Golden Punt Jury Award – Best Discovery Feature Film
Named after Cambridge’s iconic river punts, this is the festival’s highest honour. The award recognises an outstanding discovery feature film selected by an invited jury of critics, curators, and filmmakers.
Audience Awards
All UK premieres are eligible for audience-voted awards:

Best Fiction Feature

Best Documentary Feature

Best Short Film

Youth Lab Jury Award
Presented by the CFF Youth Lab — a team of young film lovers and emerging programmers who participate fully in the festival experience.
Outstanding Contribution to Cinema Award
Presented to a filmmaker or industry figure whose work has made a lasting impact on film culture.
Cambridge Film Festival is a BAFTA and BIFA-qualifying festival.

Submission Guidelines
Eligibility
Feature Films (60+ minutes)

Must not have been released in the UK in any format, including online.

UK premiere required.

Exceptions may be made for films of exceptional quality or those premiering at the London Film Festival, at the discretion of festival staff.

Short Films (under 30 minutes)

No premiere requirement, but films must not be publicly available online in the UK.

UK premieres are eligible for Audience Awards.

General Requirements

Films must have been completed within 18 months of the festival start date.

Non-English language films must include embedded English subtitles.

Closed captions are encouraged for accessibility.

Films previously submitted to CFF will only be considered if significantly reworked.

All rights, permissions, and clearances must be secured before submission. Submission fees are non-refundable.

A.I. & Machine Learning
CFF requires filmmakers to declare any significant use of AI, including:

AI-generated imagery, dialogue, or sound design

AI-simulated performances

AI tools used in scripting, editing, or post-production

The festival does not accept submissions that:

Replicate or simulate real individuals without explicit consent

Use AI-generated material that violates copyright, licensing, or data protection laws

Films using AI will not be judged more or less favourably based solely on AI use. Selection continues to prioritise originality, storytelling, technical quality, and emotional impact.

Submission Platform

All films must be submitted via FilmFreeway as a secure online screener.

Filmmakers are encouraged to include pronouns in their bios (e.g., “Elle Haywood (She/Her)”).

The festival reserves the right to adjust deadlines or close submissions early.

Selection & Communication

Submissions are reviewed by the CFF programming team.

Individual feedback cannot be provided.

All selected filmmakers will be contacted by 16 September 2026.

Filmmakers should remain contactable during August–September.

Selected films will be announced publicly as part of the full festival programme.

Press materials should only be sent after official selection.

Screening Format & Delivery

Screenings take place at the festival’s discretion, and schedules may change without liability.

Selected films cannot be withdrawn once confirmed and must not screen elsewhere before CFF without approval.

Films must be available in DCP format for cinema presentation.

DCPs must be delivered at least one month before the festival.

The festival cannot cover format transfer or subtitling costs.

The Cambridge Film Trust accepts responsibility only for technical damage while materials are in festival possession; filmmakers should ensure adequate insurance during transit.

Submission Fees & Waivers
CFF is a non-profit charity (Registered Charity No. 1120059), and submission fees help support the reviewing process.
Waivers and discounts include:

Free submissions for filmmakers based in Cambridgeshire (proof required)

Free submissions for directors or producers who have previously screened at CFF

25% discount for Global Majority directors

To request a waiver:
Email: su*********@***********************rg.ukSubject line: (FILM TITLE) – (DISCOUNT/WAIVER)
Include one of the following:

Proof of address

Film name and year previously screened at CFF

A note requesting the Global Majority director discount

Please note: no other waivers are available, and submission fees are non-refundable.

Organized by:Cambridge Film Trust (Registered Charity No. 1120059)
