Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL QUESTIONS
We can be reached by phone at 416-585-2333 or by email via info@imagineNATIVE.org.
We’re able to accept both online donations and donations made by cheque and mail it to:
imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival
Attn. David Morrison
Suite 446
401 Richmond Street West
Toronto, Ontario M5V 3A8
Sensory Friendly Screenings are screenings where the environment is adjusted to accommodate people who would appreciate a sensory-friendly space, such as a relaxed attitude towards noise and movement, slightly lowered volume and lights at a dim level. People also are more than welcome to leave their seats to roam around.
- Participate in the world’s largest Indigenous film and media arts festival
- Contribute to breaking barriers and connecting communities
- Learn more about Indigenous perspectives through innovative storytelling, film and media arts
- Special access vouchers to imagineNATIVE screenings
- Attend imagineNATIVE’s Volunteer Appreciation Party
Yes! This year, volunteers will support the in-person and online festival. For more information about online volunteer opportunities, please email volunteer@imagineNATIVE.org or call 416-585-2333 x 105.
Thanks to TD Bank, all screenings on Friday, October 20, 2023 will be free as part of TD Free Friday. These tickets are exclusively available on the day of the event at the in-person imagineNATIVE Box Office located at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Online redemption is not possible.
Yes, you must be at least 16 years of age.
Yes, a two shifts minimum is required.
It is possible, but it is case by case. Please email volunteer@imaginenative.org for personalized requests.
No. We accept people from all backgrounds, ethnicities and strive to make our spaces accessible for everyone.
Yes! We are accepting submissions from November 1, 2024 – February 7, 2025.
Festival Date Change
The next imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival will take place June 3-8, 2025 (Toronto) and June 9-15, 2025 (online).
No, there will not be a 2024 Festival, though we continue to present Indigenous-led screen content throughout the year with an extended imagineNATIVE Tour, numerous co-presentations, curated programming, and partnerships through events.
Yes, this date change is intended to be permanent for the foreseeable future.
Our Call for Submissions for our 2025 Festival will open in November 2024.
Yes, we will accept films from 2023-2025 in the first year of our new Festival dates to make up for the missed year, but for the 2026 Festival and moving forward, we will accept films from the current and past year only.
Yes! We highly value audience engagement in whichever way best accommodates them, whether that is in-person or online. We will continue to present both options for participation.
The decision to change the Festival dates came from the challenges the imagineNATIVE team has faced in recent years as an Indigenous-led non-profit organization (inflation, economic, timing, and capacity, to name a few). Moving the Festival to a time of the year where everyone’s attention is on Indigenous-led programming makes a lot of sense, and will create an opportunity for us to develop new partnership opportunities, as well as collaborate with and uplift other Indigenous organizations in Tkaron:to.
This decision was made with the support of the imagineNATIVE staff and board, and in consultation with partners, funders, artists, and other key stakeholders in the Festival.
As with any film festival, it is up to the artist to decide where they would like to have their film premiered. If a premiere at TIFF is preferred, imagineNATIVE will still accept their film submission in the following Festival run.
All year-round initiatives will continue as usual with some extended timelines. These initiatives will follow their normal timelines in the following years.
imagineNATIVE Originals will continue as expected, but 2024 artists will have an extended deadline to shoot and create their films.
2024 imagineNATIVE Originals works will screen at the 2025 imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival.
Yes, we will present volunteer opportunities through our other partnership events whenever possible. imagineNATIVE is still a part of VAACT, so volunteer opportunities to collect a stamp in 2024 will still be possible, depending on hours.
We are happy to answer any questions you may have at info@imagineNATIVE.org or via our website’s Help Chat.
SUBMISSION QUESTIONS
Please visit us at imagineNATIVE.org/festival/submissions.
Good things happen! In addition to the award, winners receive a sponsored cash prize, which is given directly to the Indigenous director/lead creative of the project.
Awards are determined by jury consensus. With the exception of our Audience Choice Awards, the annual imagineNATIVE Awards are adjudicated by an independent jury.
Yes! imagineNATIVE supports Indigenous artists’ work, including those who give their time, insight, and talent as Board members, staff, contractors, and volunteers. The Programming Selection Committee has a responsibility to declare a conflict of interest when necessary, in which case they will be omitted from the decision-making process.
No. We encourage artists to submit their finished projects, as well as their rough cuts as long as you specify your completion date. Final cuts must be completed by the end of February 2025.
We are accepting Film + Video works (including cinematic films, music videos, web series, tv series), Digital + Interactive works (including non-interactive digital works, XR, video games, choose-your-own-adventure), and Audio works (including soundscapes, sound art, radio plays, audiobooks, podcasts).
Joint creative positions may be considered with additional clarification requests.
Yes. We require the director to be Indigenous, as well as the writer and/or producer to be Indigenous.
No problem. We are accepting submissions in all languages. Please provide your project with English subtitles or closed captioning.
That’s great! We accept works of all premiere statuses. We congratulate you for being successful at other festivals!
No problem. We are accepting submissions of works created from January 1, 2023 to now.
We’ve got you! We will have a FREE Early Bird Submission period from November 1, 2024 – November 15, 2024. Additionally, if you have been programmed at our Festival before and require accommodations regarding your submission fee, please email submissions@imagineNATIVE.org.
Yes. There is a $5.00 CAD fee to submit to the imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival.
Yes! We are accepting submissions from November 1, 2024 – February 7, 2025.
Membership
All donations and membership purchases will get a tax receipt delivered to the email address that was provided.
1) You will receive a complimentary 10-ticket package to the Festival, which allows you to either use the 10 tickets yourself, or share the Festival experience by distributing them among friends and family.
2) You will receive early bird access to booking tickets for Festival screenings. Members get the privilege of purchasing and booking their tickets before the general public, guaranteeing your seat at popular screenings.
3) You will receive invitations to attend select Industry Days events, such as panels on various industry topics, masterclasses by filmmakers or industry professionals, and keynotes by artists.
imagineNATIVE receives many invitations to special film programming events throughout the year. Members will be put on a priority list to receive tickets to these exciting events when these opportunities arise.
imagineNATIVE presents many year-round screenings, and members will receive early notice of ticket availability.
Memberships are non-refundable. You may cancel monthly payments during the year, but will lose the benefits for any unpaid parts of the remaining year or upcoming Festival. Membership must be active during the Festival in order to receive Festival benefits.
Members will receive an exclusive discount code that can be applied to any imagineNATIVE merchandise in the imagineNATIVE Store.
If you find yourself unable to attend any in-person events, you have the flexibility to transfer your ticket to a friend or family member, ensuring that your Festival tickets don’t go to waste.
Your membership lasts one year from the date you sign up. We’ll send you reminders as your renewal date approaches, ensuring you continue to enjoy the benefits for the upcoming Festival.
Membership must be purchased before April 15 of a given year to be eligible for the Festival benefits for that year’s Festival in June. e.g. If a membership is purchased May 1, 2025, you will receive Festival benefits for the 2026 imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival in June 2026.
ONLINE FESTIVAL QUESTIONS
Under Bill C-59, it is illegal to make a recording of the films screened at imagineNATIVE Film and Media Festival. Section 432. (1) A person who, without the consent of the theatre manager [imagineNATIVE], records in a movie theatre [Cinesend platform] a performance of a cinematographic work within the meaning of section 2 of the Copyright Act or its soundtrack (a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term of not more than two years; or (b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction. (2) A person who, without the consent of the theatre manager [imagineNATIVE], records in a movie theatre a performance of a cinematographic work within the meaning of section 2 of the Copyright Act or its soundtrack for the purpose of the sale, rental or other commercial distribution of a copy of the cinematographic work (a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term of not more than five years; or (b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction. (3) In addition to any punishment that is imposed on a person who is convicted of an offence under this section, the court may order that anything that is used in the commission of the offence be forfeited to Her Majesty in right of the province in which the proceedings are taken. Anything that is forfeited may be disposed of as the Attorney General directs.
You can AirPlay from most browsers if you have Apple TV by selecting the cast button in the bottom right-hand side of the player.
You can Chromecast from a Chrome web browser on PC and Mac computers as well as Android devices by selecting the cast button in the bottom right-hand side of the player.
All films screening as part of the imagineNATIVE Festival 2022 will be equipped with Closed Captioning or Full English Subtitles. Our website has an accessible viewing and described audio widget to provide better access to our content.
Please refer to our website to find detailed information about which films will be captioned or fully subtitled.
You can directly connect your laptop or computer using an HDMI cable, by following these steps:
- Make sure your computer is close enough to your TV for the HDMI cable to reach.
- Connect one end of the HDMI cable into your computer.
- Plug the other end of the cable into an available HDMI port on the TV. Take note of the HDMI input number.
- Using your TV’s remote control, set the TV to the HDMI input that matches the port you connected the cable to.
- If your computer’s display does not automatically appear on your television screen, you may need to have the computer manually detect the display:
Mac: Go to the Apple Menu and choose “System Preferences.” Choose “Displays” and hold down the Option key to show the “Detect Displays” button. Click on “Detect Displays” while holding down the Option key.
PC: Right-click on your desktop and select “Display Settings.” Choose “Detect,” then select “Multiple Displays,” and then select “Duplicate these Displays,” and click Apply.
Maybe. Unfortunately, many built-in Smart TVs have web browsers which don’t support playback of protected content. If you get a black screen or error message, your TV is most likely not compatible. Try a different method to view our online content.
- Participate in the world’s largest Indigenous film and media arts festival
- Contribute to breaking barriers and connecting communities
- Learn more about Indigenous perspectives through innovative storytelling, film and media arts
- Special access vouchers to imagineNATIVE screenings
- Attend imagineNATIVE’s Volunteer Appreciation Party
Yes! This year, volunteers will support the in-person and online festival. For more information about online volunteer opportunities, please email volunteer@imagineNATIVE.org or call 416-585-2333 x 105.
Yes, you must be at least 16 years of age.
Yes, a two shifts minimum is required.
It is possible, but it is case by case. Please email volunteer@imaginenative.org for personalized requests.
No. We accept people from all backgrounds, ethnicities and strive to make our spaces accessible for everyone.
Answer 1
BOX OFFICE QUESTIONS
We offer various single tickets, packages, and passes. Visit our online Box Office for ticket information. Please note that all sales are final.
Thanks to TD Bank, all screenings on Friday, October 20, 2023 will be free as part of TD Free Friday. These tickets are exclusively available on the day of the event at the in-person imagineNATIVE Box Office located at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Online redemption is not possible.
Yes. Please email boxoffice@imagineNATIVE.org prior to making your purchase if you wish to use your Status card to purchase tickets, packages, or passes online. Alternatively, you can visit the in-person imagineNATIVE Box Office located at the TIFF Bell Lightbox from October 17 to October 22, 2023 and remember to present your Status card in advance of making your purchase.
Tickets, packages, and passes for screenings and events can be purchased via our online Box Office until October 29, 2023. Our online Festival runs from October 23 to October 29, 2023
You need a credit card (VISA, MasterCard, or Amex) for online purchases. Keep in mind that all sales are final.
The films in the festival have not been rated. Under the Film Content Information Act, 2020, there is no longer a requirement to provide movie ratings for films shown in Ontario. Viewing content with younger family members is up to your discretion.
We have posted content warnings on our website and within our screening platform next to films that contain sensitive and graphic content to help you navigate the screenings. Health support workers are available throughout the Festival in case of any audience member needing support with the content being displayed.
Health support workers are available throughout the Festival in case of any audience member needing support with the content being displayed.
Yes, there are no restrictions on the number of tickets or packages you can buy. Please note that all sales are final.
Click the “Sign In” button on the top right of our website or on the Elevent website. On the sign-in page, click the “Forgot Password” button, enter your registered email address, and follow the instructions to reset your password.
Absolutely! Choose the gift option during checkout. Remember that all sales are final.
Please note that all sales are final.
Sign in to your account on the Elevent website and access your profile by hovering over your name in the top right-hand corner and then clicking “Account.” Click “Edit Profile” on the left-hand side to update your account details, including your email and password. If you forget your password, use the “Forgot Password” option on the sign-in page
No, all sales are final. If you need assistance or encounter account errors, email boxoffice@imagineNATIVE.org, and our team will provide any assistance that we can.
ACCESSIBILITY QUESTIONS
GIVEAWAY QUESTIONS
Yes. Selected introductions and post-screening Q&As will be presented with ASL interpretation. Please check out our website for the most up-to-date offerings.
If accessible seating is required, please email accessibility@imaginenative.org as early as possible, and we will ensure to reserve seating for you to be near the ASL interpreters.
we’re creating a list with information about captioning and ASL
We understand that some content presented by imagineNATIVE may be upsetting or triggering. Because of this, we will have support workers available on-site at the TIFF Bell Lightbox from October 18-23, 2022. Phone support will be available throughout our online festival from October 24-30, 2022 by calling 1-888-631- 6964 between the hours of 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
These services are for everyone, including non-Indigenous people, who may require access to emotional support or traditional medicines.
We are happy to announce that all of our venues are wheelchair accessible and barrier free. If you or someone else wants to inquire more about the Festival venues, we’re more than happy to provide you with further information upon the request, please email accessibility@imaginenative.org.
Accessible seating is reserved for disabled guests and their companions only. If you or someone else require accessible seating at a venue, please email accessibility@imaginenative.org as early as possible to reserve your seating.
Press through each of the buttons that appear on the Accessibility Beacon menu to choose the option that works best for you.
It offers options for screen contrast adjustment, link highlighting, bigger texts, bigger text spacing, pause animations, dyslexia-friendly font, cursor changes, tooltips, bigger line height, and uniform text alignment.
It appears as a circular button with the figure of a person in it on the upper-left corner. You can also access it by pressing CTRL+U on the keyboard.
While we strive to have all films shown with Open Captions, this isn’t always possible, so some films will be shown with Full English subtitles. Please refer to our online film listings for the most up-to-date information about what films offer what kind of readable text.
Go to the bottom right corner of the screen and click the button that looks like a screen with closed captioning as highlighted below.
INDUSTRY DAYS QUESTIONS
Micro Meetings scheduling and online participation will be managed through Eventtia. Leaders and participants will receive detailed instructions on how to access the platform through email.
To check in:
- Go to the link provided in the email
- Enter your email address to log in
- It’s very important that you verify the compatibility of your browser with our platform’s video and networking technology. To do so, click on Verify on the pop-up banner at the top
- Allow virtual-stage.eventtia.com to use your microphone and camera
- Click on Done at the bottom of the test video screen
- You are now ready for the micro meetings!
To access your agenda:
- Click on Program icon on the left (under the Home icon)
- Click on Meetings
To enter a meeting:
- Click on the meeting on your agenda
- Click Join
Yes. Micro Meetings are taking place in person at TIFF Bell Lightbox, but will also have a virtual option if you are unable to attend. This networking event is only open to Indigenous creators. Registration info will be sent via email to all Industry Package holders.
Industry Package holders will be notified when the registration opens and requires prior approval to be able to attend. Micro meetings leaders can register through the application form on the imagineNATIVE Website, under Institute opportunities.
The 2022 Micro Meetings are held during imagineNATIVE Industry Days, this full-day event of micro-meetings is the only market event of its kind in the world dedicated to Indigenous screen and digital content, giving Indigenous creatives valuable face-to-face time with industry leaders in various sections of the industry.
Industry Package holders will receive information about how and where to watch the recordings of in-person panels and conversations during our online festival (October 24th – 30th, 2022). These recordings will be available to the public later this year.
For more information, please check our website.
Yes, your industry package will provide access to the in-person festival’s program from October 18th – October 23th, 2022. Industry Package holders will also have access to our online festival from October 24th – October 30th, 2022.
Yes, you will need to book a ticket to any screenings and events. This package gets you a ticket to all in-person film screenings and special events plus an Online Package but you’re still required to reserve a seat.
This year, due to limited capacity, all Industry Days Package holders must RSVP to each individual Industry Days event, parties, and film screening they wish to attend. Industry Days Package holders are not guaranteed access to all events and must RSVP. We encourage Industry Days Package holders to RSVP for events they wish to attend during the festival.
Industry Days Package holders will receive 10 tickets to RSVP for events of their choosing during the early bird window starting September 23, 2022. Package holders can RSVP for additional events starting Oct 1, 2022.
Industry Packages are not available to purchase without prior approval or invitation. You can fill out the industry accreditation form on the imagineNATIVE website to apply for the chance to get an industry package.
The annual imagineNATIVE Industry Days will be presented from October 19 – 22, 2022 in Toronto, Ont, at Artscape Sandbox and TIFF Bell Lightbox and from October 24 – 30 online.
INDIGITAL DAYS AND SPACES QUESTIONS
Access to the iNdigital Space is completely free! The space will be open to the public from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM from October 18 to October 22, 2023.
The iNdigital Space is open to all ages, however, the recommended age for viewing VR experiences with equipment is 13+. We will also flag any content that is intended for older audiences. Viewing content with your young family members is up to your discretion.
The iNdigital Space will be open to the public from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM from October 18 to October 22, 2023.
Access to the iNdigital Space is FREE. The space will be open to the public from 11 am to 8 pm from October 18 to October 23, 2022.
We invite you to see, listen, and play with our diverse Official Selection, which includes VR, 360, AR, video games, interactive web, and digital media works.
We invite you to see, listen, and play with our diverse Official Selection, which includes VR, 360, AR, video games, interactive web, and digital media.
For more information about the official selection, please check our festival website.
All iNdigital Days events are open and FREE to the public on a first come, first served basis.
All iNdigital Days events will be held at our iNdigital Space located on the TIFF Bell Lightbox Gallery. Volunteers will direct you to the iNdigital Space.
For complete iNdigital Days schedule information, please refer to the imagineNATIVE website.
iNdigital Days are happening from October 19 to October 20, 2022 from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm.
For complete iNdigital Days schedule information, please refer to the imagineNATIVE website.
Formerly Indigenous Digital Development Day (iDDD), iNdigital Days is an extended two-day event packed with opportunities to grow your practice and connect with other digital creatives! Join us at the TIFF Bell Lightbox Gallery from October 19 to October 20, 2022.
For complete iNdigital Days schedule information, please refer to the imagineNATIVE website.
COVID QUESTIONS
imagineNATIVE staff members will remain masked in indoor spaces. Patrons and volunteers are encouraged to wear masks, but this will not be enforced in any of our venues.
imagineNATIVE staff members will remain masked in indoor spaces. Patrons and volunteers are encouraged to wear masks, but this will not be enforced in any of our venues.