In 2003, the Atlantic Film Festival doubled in size and posted a 15% increase in attendance, according to data released at its January general meeting. The festival has grown from a single event into an organization that manages several annual cultural events, including the newly created Atlantic Documentary Directors’ Training Opportunity, to be held June 2-6. The program will provide training and production opportunities for emerging documentary directors in Atlantic Canada. The deadline for submissions is April 9 and entry forms can be downloaded from the festival website, www.atlanticfilm.com.

The 24th AFF, to be held in Halifax Sept. 17-25, has also issued its call for submissions. The deadline is June 4, with decisions to be made by Aug. 6. AFF is accepting documentary, animation, fiction or experimental productions of any length.

Programming streams for AFF 2004 include Atlantic Focus, Canadian Perspectives, International Perspectives, The Showcase Late Shift (edgy, offbeat films for late-night audiences) and Frame x Frame, an international animation stream for both children and adults. Entry forms are available at www.atlanticfilm.com.