Isabella Thornton
The magic of Short Film Face Off lies in its interactive spirit. Audiences don’t just watch; they play a vital role in deciding the winner through online voting. At the end of this journey, one filmmaker will walk away with $30,000 in funding from Telefilm Canada to create their next project, marking a career-changing opportunity. For international viewers hoping to join the excitement, access might be restricted due to geo-blocks. The easiest way to overcome this is by using a VPN service, which allows you to connect through a Canadian server and watch every episode seamlessly on CBC and CBC Gem.
How can I watch Short Film Face Off (2025) outside Canada on CBC Gem
You can watch Short Film Face Off Season 18 (2025) on CBC Gem, Canada’s free on-demand streaming platform. If you are outside Canada, including the US, UK, Australia, or New Zealand, the platform is geo-restricted. To access it, simply connect to a Canadian server with a premium VPN, which will unlock CBC Gem and let you stream all the short films seamlessly from anywhere in the world.
- Subscribe to NordVPN
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a Canada-based server.
- Visit the CBC Gem website or open the app, then log in or create a new account. During registration, you’ll need to enter a Canadian postal code — you can use an online Canadian postcode generator if you don’t have one.
- Finally, you can watch Short Film Face Off Season 18 outside Canada.
Sign Up for CBC Gem:
| # | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Download CBC Gem on your device |
| 2 | Open the app and choose to sign up |
| 3 | Create your CBC account – email, password, etc. |
| 4 | Optionally start the Premium free trial |
Short Film Face Off Season 18 About
Short Film Face Off is Canada’s only televised short film competition, now in its 18th season. The series brings together nine filmmakers from across the country, each presenting their short film alongside a personal introduction. Hosted from Halifax, Nova Scotia, the show blends engaging storytelling with expert insights. Viewers not only discover new Canadian talent but also hear thoughtful commentary from a panel of three expert judges. The films vary in style and theme, ranging from heartfelt dramas to inventive fantasy tales. Each season unfolds across four episodes, giving ample time to showcase talent while keeping the format dynamic. Ultimately, the viewing audience votes to crown the winner. The prize includes a $30,000 grant, ensuring that the champion filmmaker can take their next big leap in the industry.
When does Short Film Face Off Season 18 air?
Season 18 of Short Film Face Off premiered on August 30, 2025, with subsequent episodes airing on September 6, 13, and 20 at 8 p.m. ET. The competition is broadcast nationally on CBC and streams online through CBC Gem, making it accessible across Canada.
Short Film Face Off Season 18 Cast
- Amanda Parris (Host) – Guiding the season with her signature warmth and charisma, Amanda introduces the filmmakers, leads discussions, and reacts to the stories with insight and passion.
- Panelists (3 Experts) – Each episode features three film industry professionals who analyze the works, provide feedback, and elevate the conversation around storytelling and craft.
- Nine Filmmakers – Representing diverse regions of Canada, these filmmakers share their stories through short films and compete for audience votes and the $30,000 prize.
All nine short films:
What are the eligibility rules for submissions?
- Filmmaker must be a Canadian citizen, aged at least 19
- Short film must be under 12 minutes, completed since July 1, 2022
- Accepted genres: comedy or drama (live action or animation)
- Not acceptable: music videos or documentaries
The filmmaker must ensure the film is suitable for a family audience during the 7 p.m. slot and that they own all rights to it.
Where to watch Short Film Face Off Season 18 in Canada?
As of August 30, 2025, Short Film Face Off Season 18 airs on CBC and streams online via CBC Gem, the network’s free on-demand platform. Canadian viewers can watch every episode shortly after its television broadcast at no cost. With CBC Gem available on smart TVs, mobile devices, and browsers, audiences can easily access the competition and enjoy the best of Canadian short films.
Is there a way to watch Short Film Face Off Season 18 online for free?
Yes, you can stream Short Film Face Off Season 18 for free (with ads) on CBC Gem, or upgrade to ad-free viewing with a free one-week trial of CBC Gem Premium — then continue for just CA $5.99/month plus taxes.
What devices can I use to stream CBC Gem?
- Smart TVs – Samsung, LG, Panasonic
- Android TV – Sony Bravia, Sharp AQUOS
- Amazon Fire TV / Fire Stick
- Apple TV
- Roku
Can I download Short Film Face Off Season 18 for offline viewing?
At this time, CBC Gem does not support offline downloads of Short Film Face Off Season 18 through official means.
FAQs
- How many films and episodes does Season 18 include?
The season features nine short films presented across four one-hour episodes. Each session spotlights the films and the filmmakers behind them. - How is the winner chosen?
The viewing audience determines the winner through an online vote. The filmmaker with the most votes is awarded the $30,000 grant from Telefilm Canada. - What’s the format of the show?
Each filmmaker is introduced with a short personal video followed by their submitted short film. A host guides the flow, while three expert panelists provide analysis and commentary. Viewers at home vote online to decide the winner. - Where is Short Film Face Off produced?
Production for the series is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and the episodes are broadcast nationally across Canada. - Who supports Season 18?
Telefilm Canada supports the program, backing filmmakers with the $30,000 grant for their next film. - Is there a license fee for selected filmmakers?
Yes. Selected filmmakers receive a modest license fee for allowing the show to broadcast their films.
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