How it works

CFMDC is a non-commercial, artist-run centre distributor. We are a non-profit organization with a particular client base, not a commercial film distributor. All of our agreements with artists are non-exclusive, which means you can pursue other agreements and self-distribute alongside our agreement. For more information on what membership entails please check out our membership page. You receive 70% of all royalties for work distributed through CFMDC. Read on for distribution details.

 

Festival Distribution
Festival submissions change annually depending on festival regulations. We welcome filmmakers’ input on festivals that you would like your work submitted to. A core part of our mandate is that artists be paid for their work and this impacts our festival submission process. We primarily work with festivals that pay artist fees, and will collaborate with you on a festival submission strategy. 

Educational Distribution
Educational rentals are not frequently initiated by us; we receive requests from educators who might have an idea of what title they want or from browsing our catalogue. From time to time, we may create compilations for educators who request recommendations for films on a certain topic. We also occasionally send out emails to scholars who are doing research on a particular topic with a list of film recommendations. However, these communications are sporadic and topics vary.

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Depositing New Titles
If you already have work in the CFMDC catalogue you can continue depositing work for distribution. $50 for a batch of 1 film, $75 for 2-3 films, $100 for four, and so on. 

Other
CFMDC is always looking for paid opportunities to showcase membership work. We are always seeking out opportunities to create partnerships with curators and other organizations. When films are done their festival run we also seek out video-on-demand and streaming opportunities. If anyone might be interested in paying for your work, whether it's a programmer, gallery, or VOD platform, we are happy to negotiate on your behalf. By and large, we only work with clients that pay artist fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does CFMDC distribute?
We aim to support work that fits with our mandate and vision and use this as the main frame of reference.

How do I submit a film? What’s the timeline?
You can check out our submissions page for all the information on submitting new work.​

What are the deliverables that CFMDC needs to distribute my work?
Please review this document

​How can I send my deliverables?
Please transfer your deliverables through our Filemail (cfmdc.filemail.com) or our MyAirBridge (cfmdc.myairbridge.com). We highly prefer that you use one of these services due to reliability.

Is there a deadline for deliverables?
Yes. Deliverables should be sent within 2 weeks of receiving the distribution agreement.  

Do I really need to send a subtitle/captions file/transcript/dialogue list?
At CFMDC we prioritize accessibility for all kinds of audiences and one aspect of this includes Open and Closed captions, audio descriptions etc.

What if I don’t have captions? What if I don’t have a DCP?
CFMDC offers captioning services, DCP creations and many more tech services. Check out our tech services page here. 
Please note: If a festival requires a DCP, CFMDC will create one on your behalf, and we will charge you our going membership rate. 

​What if I want to work with, or am working with, another distributor? 
Our distribution agreement is non-exclusive which means that you are free to pursue other agreements for your work. Let us know of any new or prior agreements so we can initiate a conversation. 

Can I withdraw my work from the CFMDC collection in the future? 
Yes, you can withdraw your work at any point. Just let us know and we will send you a form.