Montreal International Smartphone Film Festival (1)

Festival start: 14 February 2027      Festival end: 14 February 2027

About the Montreal international Smartphone Film Fest

The Montreal International Smartphone Film Fest is an international event dedicated to filmmakers from around the world who create movies using the device we all carry in our pockets every day: the smartphone.

We believe in one simple idea: cinema belongs to everyone.

Our mission is to democratize filmmaking by celebrating the creativity, innovation, and storytelling made possible through smartphone filmmaking. Whether you are a first-time filmmaker, a student, or an experienced director, the festival provides a platform to showcase your work, connect with fellow creators, and inspire audiences.

Great stories don't depend on expensive equipment—they begin with imagination, passion, and the courage to create.

Cash Prizes: 800$

Grand Prize – Best Film (All Categories)

Peacock Trophy + $500 Cash Prize

Jury Mention – Best Film
$200 Cash Prize

Animation Award-Best Film
$100 Cash Prize

Official Rules – Montreal International Smartphone Film Festival 2026


1. Eligibility

The competition is open to anyone aged 16 to 99 years old, regardless of nationality, gender, or religion.


2. Participation Requirements

By entering the festival, each participant agrees to these Official Rules without reservation.

Each participant submit ONE SHORT film.

The film must be shot entirely on a smartphone, with no restrictions on brand or operating system.


3. Film Format and Content

Running time: 1 MINUTE TO 3 MINUTES, including end credits.

Video format: Horizontal (landscape), in .MP4 or .MOV format (H.264 recommended).

Resolution: Minimum 720p (1080p recommended).

Language: French or english subtitles.

Audio: Sound quality must be clear and understandable.

Title and end credits are mandatory.

The festival has an open theme. All genres are welcome, including:

Fiction

Experimental

Animation

Visual poetry


4. Permitted Equipment and Software

Post-production (editing, visual effects, color grading, sound mixing, etc.) may be completed using any software or device, whether on a computer or mobile device.

The use of accessories such as:

External microphones

Gimbals or stabilizers

Additional smartphone lenses

is fully permitted.


5. Intellectual Property

Participants must own or have secured all necessary rights for every element included in their film, including:

Images

Music

Dialogue

Sound effects

Any other copyrighted material

By submitting a film, participants grant the Montreal Smartphone Film Festival permission to use excerpts, still images, and promotional materials from the film for festival marketing purposes, including trailers, posters, websites, and social media.


6. Submission Process

Registration must be completed through the official festival website.

Films must be submitted exclusively via Festhome.

Submitted films must comply with all technical and legal requirements described in these Official Rules.


7. Festival Schedule

Submission Period: August 6 – November 27,2026

Official Selection Announcement: January 15, 2027

Festival Event: February 14, 2027


8. Submission Fees

Early Bird Submission: Free

Regular Submission: US$5

Late Submission: US$10