2026 VERTICAL SHORTS CHALLENGE

Challenge Rules

1. WHO CAN ENTER

Open to Saskatchewan residents; students, professionals, and creators at every level.

2. FORMAT

Must be shot on a smartphone in the vertical orientation.

3.  GENRE 

Put your best foot forward and let your creativity fly! Narrative, scripted, comedy, experimental, horror... you decide!

4.   LENGTH

The film must be between 1-3 minutes total run time.

5.   Deadline

The film must be submitted by February 20th, 2026 at noon CST.

6. SPIRIT OF THE CHALLENGE   

This is an inclusive opportunity to compete, experiment, and have fun. Push boundaries, play with the format, and let your creativity lead.  We welcome all creators to challenge themselves and make something great!

WINNER


You’re Invited

by Sarah Hartmann

FINALISTS


As Always.

by Dawson Thingvold

Birthday Boy

by Zach Bilinsky, Olivia Epp, Amy Hameluck, Kieran Kasha, Giovana Nabarrete, and Bella Petrovitch

Daily Doodles

by Logan Mainil

Humanity

by Pantea Kiani

The Warehouse

by Haven Szakacs and Hayden Holmen

Vertical Taipei

by Lee Chambers

WARM STATIC

by Evelina Kniazeva and Taegan O'Bertos

What Should We Watch?

by Christine King and Edward King

2026 Sponsors

2026 Sponsors