The 17th Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF) which was originally scheduled for April 20-26, but postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will now take place from June 22-28, 2020 as an online festival.

The 7-day online festival will feature unique independent and genre films streaming in Alberta for the first time, shorts packages, Q&As with filmmakers, programmer intros before all films, and interactive experiences. The festival will feature a mix of live events and the ability to watch films on-demand.

“We decided that adapting to the situation was the best approach. We couldn’t accept not showcasing these films we’ve been so excited about, and connecting with our audience during this time. We are working really hard to provide as much as we can online, and keeping the vibrancy of CUFF and our eclectic films transported to your homes, as best we can.,” said Festival Director and Lead Programmer Brenda Lieberman.

All films playing CUFF Online are geo-restricted to Alberta, which also gives the potential for film fans outside of Calgary to experience CUFF’s programming for the first time.

“We’re really hoping this is an opportunity for not only our current fan base, but a great way to attract new audiences too, and provide an opportunity for those who have always wanted to see a CUFF film during CUFF, but have been unable to attend for whatever reasons. There is increased accessibility, and while we’ll miss seeing everyone in person, we’ll look forward too engaging with everyone in new ways, online,” said Lieberman.

Special initiatives at CUFF 2020 include: Two nights of drive-in screenings at Big Rock Brewery on Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27 and collaborations with Sled Island, one of our local sister festivals who had to cancel their 2020 edition and was scheduled to take place from June 25-28.

The CUFF 2020 Online lineup will be announced in early June and tickets will go on sale at this time.

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