Do you enjoy reading film reviews or watching award shows? Have you ever wondered how winners are chosen or what it takes to be a film critic?
Each year Freeze Frame invites budding film critics ages 11 - 16 to submit a review of a TV show or movie for a chance to be part of the Youth Jury, the panel that picks the best films of our International Film Festival for Kids of All Ages.
The program aims to cultivate critical thinking skills and develop a deeper appreciation of films.
What does the Youth Jury do?
Applicants selected for the Youth Jury will meet guest artists and attend the Festival’s Opening and Closing Ceremonies. And most importantly, as a jury member you will view all the great Festival films from around the world and decide with your peers which one to award the Youth Jury Prize. The Youth Jury will announce their choice at the Closing Ceremonies on the afternoon of Sunday, March 14.
All jury members are required to participate in the film criticism workshop held on the opening day of the Festival. Youth Jury members will receive two All Access passes and a reference letter after the completion of their duties.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for young people who are bilingual (English and French) and have a passion for film and are able to devote a lot of time during the Festival (March 8 – 14, 2026) to participate fully in the Youth Jury activities.
After we’ve reviewed the applications we choose our jurors based on qualities we see in their film reviews.
Here’s what we look for:
Strong communication and writing skills
Creativity and originality
Good critical thinking skills
A love for TV and film
Are you thinking about applying but don’t have any experience writing a film review? Don’t worry! We have some tips here to help you:
Pick a favourite film or TV show.
Resist the urge to retell the story. Instead, think about what you liked or didn’t like. It’s easiest to start with the positives.
Think about the type of film (or genre). Is it a drama, comedy, coming of age story, sci-fi, or action film?
Think about the emotional “tone” of the film. Is it sad, funny, or thrilling?
What themes and issues do you notice?
How is the filmmaker using the camera to tell their story? How about colours, lighting, and sounds? Why do you think the filmmaker made these choices in telling the story?
Write a catchy opening sentence – something that grabs our attention.
Be true to you. Let us hear your thoughts and reactions about the film in your own voice.