National Film Board of Canada
Canada's public film producer offering free access to an extensive film library
Overview
The National Film Board of Canada is a federal government agency that produces and distributes documentary, animation, and alternative drama films. It has been a cornerstone of Canadian cinema since its founding in 1939.
The NFB's website offers free streaming access to thousands of films in its catalogue, providing an exceptional educational resource for actors studying film craft. The collection includes award-winning documentaries and innovative narrative works.
How It Works
For actors interested in documentary or experimental film, the NFB occasionally issues casting calls and collaborates with emerging filmmakers. The organization also supports Indigenous storytelling and diverse voices in Canadian cinema.
Access to the NFB's streaming library and educational resources is completely free. The organization also provides educational materials and screening programs for schools and community groups.
Who Uses It
The NFB is a valuable free resource for actors who want to study Canadian filmmaking traditions and expand their understanding of documentary and alternative cinema. Its library is an unmatched educational tool. The organization also runs workshops and artist residencies that can provide hands-on filmmaking experience. Actors who study NFB films gain a deeper appreciation for nuanced, character-driven storytelling that translates directly to their craft.
Pricing & Plans
Access to the NFB's streaming library is completely free, with no subscription or registration required for most content. The NFB app is available on iOS, Android, Apple TV, and Roku, making the entire catalogue accessible on virtually any device. There are no premium tiers or paid upgrades for general viewers. Educational institutions can access enhanced classroom tools and curated collections at no cost. Some physical screenings and special events organized by the NFB may have nominal admission fees, but these are the exception rather than the rule. Compared to paid streaming services, the NFB offers an extraordinary amount of high-quality content at zero cost, making it one of the best free resources available to Canadian actors.
Pros & Cons
What's Great
The NFB's single greatest strength is the breadth and quality of its free film library, which spans decades of award-winning Canadian cinema. The collection includes groundbreaking animation, powerful documentaries, and innovative narrative films that are difficult to find elsewhere. The platform is an exceptional study tool for actors seeking to understand documentary realism, naturalistic performance, and non-traditional storytelling. The NFB actively supports Indigenous filmmakers and stories from diverse Canadian communities, providing representation rarely seen in mainstream cinema. The organization's educational partnerships make it a go-to resource for film schools and acting programs across the country. The app and website are well designed and easy to navigate, with curated collections that help users discover relevant content.
What Could Be Better
The NFB is primarily a resource for film study and appreciation rather than a casting or career-building platform, which limits its direct professional utility for actors. Casting opportunities through the NFB are rare and typically limited to documentary or experimental projects rather than mainstream commercial work. The catalogue skews heavily toward documentary and animation, with relatively few dramatic narrative films featuring traditional acting performances. Some of the older content in the library shows its age in production quality and storytelling approach. The NFB does not function as a networking platform, so actors cannot connect with other industry professionals through the site. International users may find that some content is geo-restricted to Canada due to licensing agreements.
Our Recommendation
The NFB is best suited for actors who are serious about studying the craft of filmmaking and want to broaden their understanding of Canadian cinema. It is particularly valuable for actors preparing for documentary work or projects that require a naturalistic performance style. Students in Canadian acting programs should explore the NFB library as a supplement to their formal training. Actors focused solely on commercial audition booking will find limited direct career benefit from the platform. Those interested in Indigenous stories, French-language cinema, or experimental film will find the NFB especially rewarding. We recommend making the NFB a regular part of your film study routine rather than expecting it to generate direct casting opportunities.
Pro Tips
Start by exploring the NFB's curated collections, which organize films by theme, region, and filmmaker, making it easy to find relevant content quickly. Watch NFB documentaries to study how real people speak, move, and express emotion, as this observation translates directly to more authentic screen performances. Pay attention to the work of NFB animators like Norman McLaren, as understanding visual storytelling enhances an actor's sense of timing and physicality. Use the NFB as a research tool when preparing for roles set in specific Canadian regions or historical periods. Follow the NFB on social media to stay informed about workshops, residencies, and the rare casting call that does come through. If you are a filmmaker-actor, consider applying for NFB programs that support emerging creators, as these can provide funding and mentorship.