Looking for short films across Canada
Deadline to apply is Friday, March 20, 2026
shortfilmfaceoff.ca
Show host Amanda Parris
photo credit: Brianna Roye
(Halifax, NS) – Short Film Face Off is calling for submissions from filmmakers across Canada to be part of a national broadcast on CBC and CBC GEM.
Halifax-produced CBC and CBC GEM long-running series, Short Film Face Off will be back in 4 x 1-hour episodes in August and September 2026 for its 19th season.
“Our aim is to discover and promote emerging Canadian filmmakers,” says series producer, Bill Niven. “This program is one of the highest profile showcases in the country for short films.”
To further support our filmmakers, Telefilm Canada provides a $30,000 cash award to the top filmmaker as voted on by home audiences.
Submissions are FREE. Films must be no longer than 12 minutes and must be dramas or comedies. Applicants must be at least 19 years of age and Canadian citizens. The content must be suitable for a family audience in the 7:00 pm timeslot at the discretion of CBC. Deadline to apply is Friday, March 20, 2026.
Apply HERE.
Hosting the show, again this year, is nationally acclaimed writer and broadcaster, Amanda Parris. Returning panelists include, cultural commentator, Eli Glasner, content curator, Mohit Rajhans, and new to the show this year, NSI Manager of Programs and Development, Jessica Gibson.
About Short Film Face Off
Short Film Face Off Ltd is a division of Halifax-based, Idlewild Films Ltd in association with CBC. Idlewild was established by Bill Niven in 2001 to develop and produce critically and commercially oriented film and television programming for Canadian and international markets.
Follow Short Film Face Off on Instagram at: cbcshortfilm.
To see previous seasons, visit: gem.cbc.ca/short-film-face-off.
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