VFF 2025 Student Screening: A Celebration of Emerging Talent

On June 16, 2025, the Vaughan International Film Festival (VFF) proudly spotlighted the next generation of filmmakers during its Student Screening, hosted at The Studios at Assembly Park. The event brought together aspiring creators, educators, and film enthusiasts to celebrate storytelling, innovation, and youth creativity through the lens of short film.

This year, 13 original short films created by high school students from across Ontario were showcased, each offering a unique perspective and a glimpse into the incredible talent shaping the future of cinema. From heartfelt dramas to imaginative sci-fi adventures, the selection demonstrated both technical skill and emotional depth from these young storytellers.

The screening was hosted by filmmaker Michaelangelo Masangkay, who brought energy and enthusiasm to the event. Attendees also had the opportunity to take part in an inspiring industry talk featuring Michaelangelo Masangkay and Vice-President Adam Till from Toronto Film School.

The session provided valuable insight into the filmmaking process and advice for students hoping to pursue a career in the screen industries. VFF 2025 Indie Leader Sergio Di Zio also attended the screenings, taking time to watch the films and connect with the students for an inspiring post-show chat. We thank Toronto Film School for sponsoring the Student Networking component of the evening, allowing students to connect and grow their professional networks.

A highlight of the night was the announcement of the three finalists for the EIPMA Student Film Award, chosen in partnership with the Entertainment Industry Professionals Mentoring Alliance.

The 2025 finalists were:

🎬 Échappée – Richmond Hill High School

A heartfelt story of friendship, music, and resilience as a young teen uses songwriting to navigate life’s challenges.

🎬 The Fishman Requiem – St. Edmund Campion C.S.S.

A multiverse-hopping fish creature embarks on a surreal journey in search of companionship—and perhaps, acceptance.

🎬 Aberration – Tommy Douglas S.S.

A dystopian sci-fi narrative about a hunter traveling through time to prevent a catastrophic future.

These finalists represent the creativity, passion, and potential of high school filmmakers, and one will go on to receive the EIPMA Student Film Award at the VFF Awards.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the students, teachers, families, and industry professionals who made the evening so meaningful. The future of film is bright, and it was an honour to witness its spark on display.

See the full photo gallery here