The Future of Film Festivals

What does the future hold for film festivals in a post-pandemic landscape? WFF, in partnership with Telefilm Canada, the Canada Council for the Arts and Nordicity has been researching the role of film festivals in the filmmaker/distribution ecosystem, along with shifting audiences and technologies.

The study included over 150 participants with 58% identifying as filmmakers and creators. Over 50% of respondents cited involvement in the industry for more than 10 years. The research examined the experience of participating in film festivals since March 2020; challenges and barriers to ‘business as usual’ due to online/hybrid festivals; benefits or opportunities from the shift online; and expected future needs and optimal role of film festivals.