About the Screen to Action Program

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Screen to Action is a program designed to help filmmakers turn powerful storytelling into real-world impact. Filmmakers submit their film or project alongside the mission behind it, sharing the cause they want to bring attention to and why it matters.

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Selected participants collaborate with the Montreal International Film Festival’s philanthropy team to develop a tailored action mission connected to their film. Together, we create initiatives that extend the story beyond the screen and encourage meaningful engagement with the causes it highlights.

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Through screenings, discussions, workshops, donation campaigns, and community initiatives, the program invites audiences to move from awareness to participation. At its core, Screen to Action aims to ensure that impactful stories do more than entertain, they spark conversation, raise awareness, and inspire action.

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How It Works

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Selected filmmakers work with the Montreal International Film Festival philanthropy team to design a custom impact campaign centered on their film and the cause it represents.

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As part of the program, films will be featured in the Filmmaker Changemakers Film Club as a Film of the Week. Filmmakers provide a temporary screening license based on their preferred terms so the film can be showcased through the program.

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The festival team then collaborates with the filmmaker to develop a campaign strategy that expands the reach of both the film and its message. Depending on the project, this may include screenings, panel discussions and Q&As, fundraising events, volunteer initiatives, partnerships with nonprofit organizations, or public awareness campaigns.

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The objective is to amplify the film’s message while creating meaningful opportunities for audiences and communities to engage with the cause behind it.

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Who Can Apply

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The program is open to filmmakers and studios worldwide, including independent creators, emerging filmmakers, and established production companies.

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Eligible Projects

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We accept a wide range of audiovisual projects, including:

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• Feature Films

• Documentary Films

• Short Films

• Television Series

• Animation Films

• Student Films

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Social Impact Themes

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We are particularly interested in projects that explore or support causes aligned with global social impact goals, including:​​

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• Peace, Justice & Human Rights
  Promoting peaceful societies, respect for human rights, and fair access to justice.

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• Gender Equality & LGBTQ+ Inclusion
  Encouraging equal opportunities, dignity, and inclusion for people of all genders and identities.

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• Access to Quality Education
  Expanding access to education, literacy, and lifelong learning opportunities.

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• Health & Well-Being
  Supporting physical, mental, and community health and well-being.

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• Clean Water & Sanitation
  Improving access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene.

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• Climate Action & Environmental Protection
  Promoting environmental sustainability, conservation, and responsible climate action.

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• Reducing Social & Economic Inequality
  Addressing poverty and supporting communities facing barriers to opportunity.

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• Sustainable Communities & Innovation
  Encouraging sustainable development and innovative solutions that strengthen communities.

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Timeline

The Screen to Action Program is ongoing, and submissions are accepted year-round.​​​