History of the Festival

The YoungCuts Film Festival is North America's only international film festival whose primary purpose is to advance the careers of young filmmakers. We showcase the best emerging filmmaking talent from student film makers and non-student film makers alike. The Festival features all types of short films produced by filmmakers 29 years old and under, and was created to help launch talented young people's film and television careers, by providing exposure and recognition of their works.

YoungCuts' first festival was held in Toronto in 2001. In 2006, the Festival moved to Montreal. Interest in the Festival has grown dramatically since its inception, and the Festival is now the largest of its kind in the world. In its current format, annually the festival chooses the best 100 films from approximately 1,000 films that are submitted from more than 30 countries. Sponsors have included Pepsi, American Airlines and Air Canada.

In addition to the broad-based participation by young North American filmmakers, actors and actresses, the Festival encourages participation from young filmmakers around the world. The 2012 edition will be held in Montreal beginning September 26, 2013. Submission and selection criteria are available HERE.