*2020 Call For Submissions are now CLOSED*
Reel Asian hosts Canada’s largest pan-Asian film festival and showcases 50 to 80 films each year from Canada and around the world. We are always exploring new platforms to make the festival experience more accessible. Whether it is in-person or online, we look forward to welcoming everyone to the 24th
Edition of the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival
this November.
Don’t miss out on being a part of Canada’s largest Pan-Asian film festival!
Early Deadline (No Submission Fee): April 10, 2020
Regular Deadline ($20 short films • $35 feature films): June 15, 2020
Late Deadline: ($40 short films • $60 feature films): July 5, 2020
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the eligibility requirements for Reel Asian submissions?
A: Reel Asian accepts submissions from across Canada and around the world. We are proud to be a platform for Asian creatives. With a commitment to our mandate, submissions must have an East/South/Southeast Asian or Asian diaspora artist in a key creative role (behind the camera and/or on screen).
For all submissions, we strongly encourage and prioritize works completed in the last year. If your work was completed before 2019, please contact us (programming@reelasian.com) before submitting.
Q: What genres do you accept?
A: We welcome films and videos of all genres, including but not limited to: narrative, documentary, short, animation, experimental, etc. Short films have a max running time of 40 minutes.
Q: Can I submit my film if it isn’t finished yet?
A: Incomplete applications will not be considered. If you are submitting a rough cut and update your submission later, we cannot guarantee that the updated version will be reviewed.
Q: What are the programming sections and what do they mean?
A: For feature films we have two sections: MARQUEE which includes Galas and high profile films. VISTA features exciting work from emerging filmmakers. Other programming sections include REEL ASIAN X which showcases non traditional screen based work and our CANADIAN SPOTLIGHT ARTIST to highlight the important work of Canadian artists.
Our PULSE Short film programs include themed short film collections, and we have a special program called WEE ASIAN which is dedicated to families and younger audience members. We will consider submissions that align with the programming intention of WEE ASIAN.
From year to year there may be themes and/or special programs that emerge as we attempt to respond to the changing world around us.
Q: How does the submissions process/selection work?
A: All eligible submissions will be subject to review by our Programming Department and dedicated programming committee members. Our programming team is committed to review all eligible submissions with care and respect.
Q: Does my film require a premiere status?
A: For feature films we ask for at least a Toronto premiere. Feature films that are available on streaming platforms far in advance of the festival dates are ineligible. However, in some circumstances exceptions may be considered.
Short film submissions do not require any premiere status to be selected. However, we do prioritize films that are completed within the year of the festival!
Q: When will I hear back?
A: All submissions will receive a final response by October 1, 2020.
Please visit Film Freeway for complete guidelines and submission application. Did we miss something? Please get in touch by email at programming@reelasian.com.