Submission Guidelines

Making the world a better place together

Submit Film

Rules & Terms

Categories & Fees

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December 2025 Festival

You may now submit your films on FilmFreeway for review.

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Do you have a film that can inspire audiences worldwide? A story that sheds light on diverse environmental issues and solutions? If so, BCEFF is the perfect platform for your work!

At BCEFF, we aim to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the film industry, fostering a culture where films are celebrated for both their artistic value and scientific accuracy. Every year, we bring vital stories to life, exploring the profound connection between humans and the environment through the art of filmmaking.

We welcome films across diverse genres and subjects, focusing on ecological themes and the broader “natural world.” We also highlight the social environment, examining how environmental changes impact communities.

Topics of Interest::

  • Geopolitical issues linked to the environment, overpopulation, energy, famine, and war.
  • Ecological topics like pollution, climate change, and biodiversity, with a focus on challenges or solutions.
  • Stories crafted to engage and inspire children with environmental themes.
  • Narratives that foster hope and present solutions for a sustainable future.

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Please contact us if you have any questions whether your film would qualify under this broad definition

Rules & Terms

For the 2025 festival, we will consider films that are:

  • Short or feature length
  • Documentary or narrative
  • Produced anywhere in the world

VENUE:

Online Event

AWARDS & PRIZES:

Each year we will spotlight a different aspect of our environment and have a special award.
Film Awards:

  • Best International Documentary
  • Best Canadian Documentary
  • Best International Short
  • Best Canadian Short
  • Best Children’s Film
  • Best Feature
  • Viewer’s Choice Award

RULES & TERMS:

Eligibility:

We accept films of any genre that explore themes of the natural and built environment, as well as social and cultural realities related to ecological changes. Premieres are highly encouraged, though not required.

Submissions:

Films with a completion date of October 2025 are eligible.
Non-English films must include English subtitles; closed captions are required for virtual screenings.

Submissions must be uploaded through FilmFreeway, with screener links valid until at least December 31, 2025

Selection Status:

Filmmakers will be notified of their selection status by November 2025 via FilmFreeway.

Rights & Releases:

By submitting, you confirm ownership or authorization to submit the film and grant BCEFF rights to use promotional materials for non-commercial purposes. BCEFF and its partners are held harmless from any claims related to the film.

Why Submit to BCEFF:

Participating in BCEFF means joining a community of filmmakers and changemakers dedicated to raising awareness and inspiring action. With international recognition, diverse awards, and a platform to showcase your work, BCEFF is where impactful stories find their voice.

 

CATEGORIES & FEES

Featured Films
Includes films with running times greater than 40 minutes.
 

Earlybird Deadline

  • Standard: $50
  • Student: $40
  • Gold Members: $40

Regular Deadline

  • Standard: $65
  • Student: $55
  • Gold Members: $55

Late Deadline

  • Standard: $85
  • Student: $75
  • Gold Members: $75
Documentary
Includes Documentaries with running over 20 minutes.
 

Earlybird Deadline

  • Standard: $40
  • Student: $30
  • Gold Members: $30

Regular Deadline

  • Standard: $55
  • Student: $45
  • Gold Members: $45

Late Deadline

  • Standard: $75
  • Student: $65
  • Gold Members: $65
Short
Includes short films with running times less than 20 minutes.

Earlybird Deadline

  • Standard: $25
  • Student: $15
  •  Gold Members: $15

Regular Deadline

  • Standard: $35
  • Student: $25
  • Gold Members: $25

Late Deadline

  • Standard: $55
  • Student: $45
  • Gold Members: $45
The Children in Focus
This special segment is dedicated to films that shed light on the unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs of children as they navigate the world of environmental issues including Feature, Documentary, Short and Animation.
Regular Deadline
  • Standard: $25
  • Student: $15
  •  Gold Members: $15

Late Deadline

  • Standard: $35
  • Student: $25
  • Gold Members: $25

    DATES & DEADLINES:

    • Opening Date
           November 3, 2025
    • Everybird Deadline
           March 1, 2025
    • Regular Deadline
           July 31, 2025
    • Extended Deadline
           October 31, 2025
    • Notification Date
           November 15, 2025
    • Event Date
           December 1 – 31, 2025