Submission Rules & Terms for Filmmakers

1. General Information

The Niagara International Music Film Festival (NIMFF) accepts submissions from filmmakers worldwide. The festival focuses on works that explore the relationship between music, sound, and cinematic storytelling.

2. Eligibility

• Films of all genres are accepted, including narrative, documentary, experimental, and animation.
• Both short and feature-length films are eligible.
• Films must have been completed after January 1, 2023.
• Non-English language films must include English subtitles.
• Short Film Entries: up to 40 minutes
• Feature Films: over 40 minutes

3. Submission Guidelines

• All submissions must be made via FilmFreeway.
• Submitters must provide a secure online screener (Vimeo, YouTube, or FilmFreeway hosting).
• Multiple entries are allowed, but each film must be submitted separately with its own entry fee.
• Submission fees are non-refundable.

4. Premiere Status

Premiere status is not mandatory; however, priority may be given to Canadian, North American, or Niagara premieres.

5. Selection Process

• All films are reviewed by the NIMFF programming team.
• Selected films will be notified via FilmFreeway and/or email.
• The festival reserves the right to make all final selection decisions.

6. Copyright & Rights Clearance

By submitting to NIMFF, the applicant confirms and warrants that they are the rightful owner of the film or have obtained full authorization from all rights holders.

The submitter further confirms that all necessary rights and clearances have been secured for the submitted work, including but not limited to:

• Music and soundtrack rights
• Third-party footage, images, and visual materials
• Performances, likeness rights, and appearances
• Any copyrighted or licensed content included in the film

The submitter agrees that the submitted film does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, privacy, or intellectual property rights of any third party.

NIMFF assumes no responsibility for any third-party claims arising from the screening of the film.

7. Screening & Rights

• By submitting, the applicant grants NIMFF the non-exclusive right to screen the film during the festival.
• NIMFF may use excerpts (up to 2 minutes), trailers, and still images for promotional purposes related to the festival.

8. Exhibition Format

• Final screening formats (e.g., DCP or digital file) will be confirmed upon selection.
• Filmmakers are responsible for providing high-quality screening materials.

9. Awards

• Selected films are eligible for awards as outlined in the “Awards & Prizes” section.
• Jury decisions are final.

10. Attendance

• Filmmakers are encouraged to attend the festival, but attendance is not mandatory.
• Travel and accommodation are not guaranteed unless otherwise specified.

11. Liability

• NIMFF is not responsible for technical issues, loss, or damage to submitted materials.
• The festival reserves the right to modify the program or schedule if necessary.
• All submission fees are non-refundable.

12. Agreement

By submitting to NIMFF, applicants acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to all Rules & Terms.