Vancouver Island Short Film Festival

Overview

The 22nd annual VISFF is happening Friday March 26th and Saturday March 27th at the Malaspina Theatre on the traditional and ancestral territory of Snuneymuxw First Nation in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. The 2027 VISFF will feature 18-20 short films curated into two unique programs, with live Q&A sessions, and the Goldie Awards Ceremony closing the festival on Saturday evening. Audiences will be able to experience the festival in person and online. A Judging Committee will select winners in several categories, including Best Film and Best Performance. Since 2006, the VISFF has built a reputation with filmmakers and audiences as a showcase for outstanding Canadian and International short films. The annual festival connects filmmakers, industry professionals and audiences in an immersive and welcoming festival experience. Our mandate is to curate an original program of short films that celebrates diverse voices and perspectives in the art of storytelling and provide opportunities for connection and education between local and international filmmakers, audiences and community members. The 2027 VISFF will also feature the 4th annual Youth Showcase, a program of 10 short films by young people 18-years-old and younger. The Youth Showcase is a family-friendly program that allows young filmmakers to screen their films in a supportive, youth-focused festival environment. The Youth Showcase will conclude with a Youth Goldie Award Ceremony. We invite all young filmmakers to submit their films for free! Films included in the 2027 Youth Showcase will not receive artist fees, but will be eligible for Youth Goldie Awards for Best Youth Film and People’s Choice.

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

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Festival Details

FilmFreeway communityGold festival

• Filmmaker

  As a filmmaker, there's nothing quite like the thrill of presenting your work to an enthusiastic audience, and this festival certainly delivered on that front. From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It felt less like attending a festival and more like reuniting with old friends. The festival coordinators go above and beyond to make each filmmaker feel celebrated and appreciated. I have no doubt that the festival will continue to flourish and grow in the years to come and I look forward to coming back.

• Filmmaker

  The Vancouver Island Short Film Fest was a fantastic experience. We had an amazing time being part of such a well-organized event.

• Filmmaker

  Leslie Hopps DeSchutter

• Filmmaker

  The festival teams warm hospitality was so welcome, our team had the best time at a super well-organized and supportive festival for independent filmmakers like ourselves. Much gratitude for your support of our film and our My Name is Arnold team.

• Filmmaker

  It was an honor to screen our short film Candle at VISFF.

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