Animaze 2026: Submissions Now Open for the 13th Edition
Montreal, Canada — The Montreal International Animation Film Festival, known globally as Animaze, has officially opened submissions for its 13th edition, taking place in 2026. Filmmakers from around the world are invited to submit their works across a wide range of categories, from student shorts to experimental features, with opportunities for international visibility at prestigious venues including Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Annecy, and beyond.
A Global Celebration of Animation
Founded as a nonprofit dedicated to showcasing the art and industry of animation, Animaze has become one of the premier festivals in the world for animated storytelling. Each year, the festival hosts screenings, conferences, industry panels, and workshops, creating a vibrant platform for animators, producers, and digital artists to connect and collaborate.
Animaze’s reach extends beyond Montreal. The festival also curates international showcases such as Animation Day in Cannes and The Best of Animaze traveling program, bringing selected films to festivals and cultural events worldwide.
Submission Categories
Filmmakers are encouraged to carefully select the category that best fits their work. Options include:
- Student Film
- 360 VR
- Music Video
- Children
- Adult
- VFX
- Experimental
Each submission must also indicate whether AI tools were used in production. Age-appropriateness should be clearly noted as well, with divisions for preschool (1–5), children (6–13), teens (13–17), and adults (18+).
Awards & Industry Recognition
Animaze provides not only recognition but also career-launching visibility. Awards include:
- Best Feature
- Best Short
- Best Experimental
- Audience Award
- Student Film Award (across college and university levels)
Winning films receive promotion through Animaze’s international touring programs, along with industry exposure and potential software prizes. Past editions have seen Animaze films featured at Cannes Film Festival, Venice Production Bridge, Annecy Festival, and Barcelona, among others.
Submission Guidelines
- Submissions must be sent via Vimeo link for review and WeTransfer hi-res file (under 2GB).
- Filmmakers must ensure all rights and licenses are cleared (music, visuals, and related IP).
- Accepted filmmakers will receive a detailed invitation letter outlining technical requirements and deadlines.
- Notifications will be sent via email and reflected on FilmFreeway.
Animaze encourages entrants to provide a permanent, reliable contact email (avoiding info@ or admin@ addresses) to ensure proper communication.
About Animaze
As both a film festival and industry conference, Animaze bridges art, technology, and commerce in the animation world. The event hosts workshops, professional networking, and co-production initiatives like Animaze Daze, helping independent filmmakers strategize their festival journeys. It also offers educational programming for children and curates digital arts projects at the intersection of creativity and research.
For filmmakers looking to elevate their work on an international stage, Animaze 2026 presents a unique opportunity to gain recognition, network with industry professionals, and share stories with global audiences.
Submit your film now via FilmFreeway:
👉 Montreal International Animation Film Festival – Animaze
