SUBMISSION rules

Submissions are accepted only through electronic submission via Film Freeway.

More than one entry may be submitted. However, each entry must be accompanied by a separate entry form and entry fee.

Films not in English must have English subtitles.

Entries must be received on or before the deadlines and submission fee payment must be made in full at time of the submission. All entry fees are non-refundable.

Entrants are responsible for obtaining any necessary licenses, royalties, release forms, clearances and permits necessary to present their work. The First City Film Festival is not responsible for any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits or royalty infringement related to the work.

The following must be source referenced in credits at the end of the production:

  1. All music, sound effects, pictures and reference footage, whether original and/or non-original

  2. Original third party music, sound effects, pictures and reference footage may be used if permission by the owner/author is documented in writing and sent in with entry form

  3. Music, sound effects, pictures, and video clips purchased or available through filming or editing software is acceptable and must be referenced in the credits

All film entries selected for the festival grant the First City Film Festival the rights to use footage, stills, titles and information from the film for promotional purposes.

All filmmakers will be notified via email regarding their acceptance into the Festival.

All genres are welcome. For screenings festival staff will place your film in the appropriate category. (See Categories here)

  • Early bird deadline - September 30, 2023

  • Regular deadline - October 31, 2023

  • Late deadline - November 30, 2023

  • Extended deadline - December 31, 2023

  • Heartland Student Short Deadline - February 5, 2024

Works in Progress are accepted for extended deadlines only. WiP's should be clearly marked on the submission disc “Work in Progress” or “Rough Cut” and also indicate when exactly the final edited version will be available.

  • Early deadline shorts $20 Features $30

  • Regular deadline shorts $25 Features $35

  • Late deadline shorts $35 Features $45

  • Extended deadline Shorts $45 Features $55

    Payment must be made through Film Freeway

Submitted materials will not be returned and there are no refunds.

Multiple Submissions: When sending in more than one project, each one must have its own submission material. Submission fees apply to each individual entry and category.

Official selections will be will be made by January 7, 2024 and notifications will be sent via email (except student shorts). Those not selected will also be notified via email.

The selection committees’, jury’s and festival director’s decisions are final.

Once selected as a part of the official festival, a film may not pull out of the festival or withdraw its submission.

If your project is selected, you are responsible for delivery of the exhibition video to our office by the designated date.

Each category within the festival will usually host a juried competition for "Best of...". Additional awards may be given within each category at the judgment of the jury (i.e. best actor, cinematographer, editing, sound, etc.). If a category has less than three submissions, it is judges discretion on awarding a “Best of” in that category.

Award winning filmmakers will receive a physical award and possibly a small cash award. Additional awards might be added and announced at a later date based on festival sponsors and donations.

Filmmakers who have their films selected for the festival will receive an admissions package to the festival. The admissions package will include instructions for delivering exhibition video.

If you have questions regarding the submissions process, please email: firstcityfilm@gmail.com