PYFF 2026

The Pope Youth Film Festival (PYFF) is a low-pressure opportunity for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians between the ages of 12 and 19 to make an original short film and share it with the local filmmaking community.

Now in its fourth year, the Newfoundland and Labrador High School Short Film Fest was rebranded in 2023 as the Pope Youth Film Festival in dedication of its late founder Paul L Pope. Paul was a leading force behind the success of the now-booming film and television industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.

PYFF’s goal is to encourage aspiring young filmmakers to create stories, express themselves, and convey powerful messages and themes through the art of filmmaking. PYFF is about giving a platform to emerging young filmmakers, regardless of the limited tools and equipment in their possession.

Eligible filmmakers are encouraged to register for PYFF 2026 and submit their short film (5 minutes or less) in its respective category (Comedy, Horror, Drama, or Documentary) to PYFF by March 13th.

Both individual and group submissions are encouraged. However, each film may only be submitted once.

Submissions will be judged by a committee of volunteer filmmakers from Newfoundland and Labrador. In addition to industry recognition, specialized awards will be distributed to highlight stand-out work for individual films.

PYFF seeks to celebrate a diversity of views. PYFF encourages people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, ethnicities, and backgrounds to participate.

For more on the ins and outs of filmmaking, check out our socials!