Have you ever envisioned yourself on the big screen, people queueing up to see your new project? Maybe you’ve dreamed of seeing your name in the list of credits or accepting an award for your brilliance in film making. This Festival might be just the place to get your creativity rolling this summer.
What is this film festival?
The Small Town Shorts Film Festival began in 2024 and was the brainchild of librarians from Trent Hills Public Library and Marmora & Lake Public Library. This Festival is a collaborative effort to encourage residents to create and showcase their talents.
Who can participate?
Residents of Brighton have been invited to participate this year, along with the communities of Trent Hills, Marmora & Lake, Stirling-Rawdon, Madoc, Asphodel-Norwood, Tweed, North Hastings, and North Kawartha.
What’s in it for me?
You have a chance to create a short film and have it screened at the Aron Co-op Theatre in Campbellford. There will be jury prizes and the audience has a chance to vote on their favourites. You also get bragging rights! Show us what you got!
How do I participate?
Create a short film (6 min or less) based on the theme of “New Beginnings.” Have fun, experiment, collaborate! Pick up a submission form at the Brighton Public Library (or another participating library) and then submit your short film by dropping off a USB stick with submission form to any participating library. See all the details on the Film Festival’s website: https://www.smalltownshortsfilmfest.ca/submissions.
Will I be up against others my own age?
The Festival creators have created the following categories by age groups:
12 and under
Family
13-17
18-64
65+
How much time do I have to get my film together?
The Early Bird deadline is August 20, 2026 at 5pm and the final deadline is September 8, 2026 at 5pm. After August 20, there is a $5 submission fee. The screening at the Aron Co-op Theatre will be held on October 1, 2026.
What if I need help getting started?
Drop in and visit the library in any of the participating communities. You can pick up a submission form and grab the Festival brochure that has all of the information and guidelines. We can also offer suggestions and resources, such as those found on the Festival’s website: https://www.smalltownshortsfilmfest.ca/resources.
For more information about the Small Town Shorts Film Festival, check out their website: https://www.smalltownshortsfilmfest.ca/.