By contributor Johnny Blakeborough
The longest-running short film festival on Vancouver Island, the Vancouver Island Short Film Festival (VISFF), is now accepting submissions for this year’s event—to be screened at Vancouver Island University’s Malaspina Theatre in Nanaimo—for three shows on February 6 and 7, 2015.
The submission deadline is November 1. Films in all genres with a run time of 12 minutes or less (including credits) are accepted. Filmmakers with all levels of experience are encouraged to enter.
The VISFF is an annual event that brings filmmakers and filmgoers together with films from around the world. It has been growing every year, both in attendance and number of entries.
“The VISFF has been so successful because we show films for every type of filmgoer, made by every type of filmmaker. We are looking for young and old, rookies and veterans—we are looking for filmmakers with diverse backgrounds and interests who will create well-told stories to delight and engage our audience,” said Zachary Tannar, VISFF Submission Coordinator.
Last year’s submissions included films from all over Canada and as far away as France. Both shows were nearly sold out, and volunteers expect an even larger turnout to the three shows in 2015 thanks to increasing popularity among filmgoers from Nanaimo and across Vancouver Island.
Filmmakers may submit multiple entries, but each film requires a separate entry form and fee, and each film must be submitted separately. No filmmaker shall have more than two films selected.
To encourage local filmmaking, the entry fee for local filmmakers will be waived this year. To qualify, local filmmakers need to submit their film and completed entry form in person to the Film Festival office via the Nanaimo Arts Council in Nanaimo North Town Centre by November 1.
The VISFF is a juried event, and filmmakers receiving the distinction of official selection are entitled to receive these fees. Tannar is proud that filmmakers receive artist fees and also have a chance at cash prizes.
“The Festival has a commitment to rewarding filmmakers that produce outstanding work. Cash awards will be given out in several categories, including Best Film. Thanks to the continued support of the Nanaimo Arts Council and its members, this year promises to be the best yet.”
To streamline the submission process, the Festival has moved to an online submission system. The online fee (for non-local filmmakers) is $25 per entry. No submissions will be accepted through mail. Entry forms and Festival guidelines are available here. For more information, visit the website, call 250-729-3947, or click here to email.
