#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM FEST 2025 AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Canadian Film Fest (CFF), the indie-spirited festival dedicated to celebrating Canadian filmmakers, revealed the 2025 award winners on Saturday, March 29 at the festival’s Closing Night. The awards follow a very successful festival, which had its biggest lineup in the history of the event driven by a record number of submissions from filmmakers.

On the heels of a 6 CSA nominations, Naomi Jaye’s sophomore feature DARKEST MIRIAM took home Best Feature;Sarah Galea-Davis was honoured with the Best Director award for her film THE PLAYERS, while Stefani Kimber won the feature film jury award for Best Acting for her performance in the film. S K E E T by writer-director Nik Sexton took home People’s Pick for Best Flick.

“This year more than ever, we are proud to bring incredible homegrown stories to the big screen for Canadian audiences,” said Ashleigh Rains, Festival Director, Canadian Film Fest. “This year’s festival is a reminder of how powerful our community of Canadian filmmakers and creatives are when we come together to support one another. Congratulations to all of this year’s award winners, and thanks for another spectacular festival!”

See below for the complete list of winners for CFF 2025. For more information, visit canfilmfest.ca.

The 2024 Canadian Film Fest Award Winners:

BEST FEATURE – DARKEST MIRIAM by Naomi Jaye, produced by Julie Baldassi, Brian Robertson

BEST DIRECTOR – Sarah Galea-Davis for THE PLAYERS

BEST SHORT FILM – SLEEP TALKING by Ethan Godel

BEST PRODUCER SHORT FILM – Amir Zargara and Iman Tahsin for A GOOD DAY WILL COME

PEOPLE’S PICK FOR BEST FLICK – S K E E T by Nik Sexton

Feature Film Jury Awards:

The feature film jury included Paul Gratton (Whistler Film Festival Programmer), Kim Albright (Writer/Director), Ian Harnarine (Writer/Director).

BEST ACTING – Stefani Kimber in THE PLAYERS

BEST DOCUMENTARY – GOLD BARS: WHO THE F*CK IS UNCLE LUDWIG? by Billie Mintz

SPECIAL MENTION FOR ORIGINALITY AND DIRECTION – WAITING FOR THE STORM directed by François Delisle

Short Film Jury Awards:

The short film jury consisted of Eva Thomas (Director), Kiarash Dadagar (Director), Alice Wang (Writer/Director, Programmer), Katie Uhlmann (Actor, Writer/Director and President of WebSeries Canada) and Vanessa Magic (Director).

BEST COMEDY SHORT FILM – BAIL BAIL by Sandrine Brodeur-Desrosiers

BEST ANIMATED SHORT FILM – BEAUPRÉ THE GIANT by Alain Fournier

JURY HONOURABLE MENTION – SLEEP TALKING by Ethan Godel

BEST PERFORMANCE – Celia Green in GREENHORN

About the Canadian Film Fest
The Canadian Film Fest is a non-profit organization whose mission is to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling by exclusively showcasing Canadian films. The festival unites film-loving audiences with diverse selections of features and shorts from across the country. The CFF provides Canadian filmmakers with essential professional development and networking opportunities through its Industry Series and awards.

#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM FESTIVAL PRESENT CFF 2025 MASTERCLASS AND INDUSTRY SERIES

Canadian Film Fest (CFF), the indie-spirited festival dedicated to celebrating Canadian filmmakers, today announced its CFF 2025 Masterclass and Industry Series. From seasoned professionals to emerging filmmakers, CFF is proud to present 14 programs that bring together a diverse and dynamic community of Canadian filmmakers, producers, executives and creatives who are dedicated to contributing to the domestic film industry.

“CFF Industry is dedicated to championing the advancement of Canadian filmmaking talent. Through industry-relevant panels, conversations, and events, we foster learning, collaboration, and knowledge sharing to empower storytellers, helping them succeed at home and make an impact globally,” said Jen Pogue, Director of Industry, Canadian Film Fest. “More than that, we are building a community, because we are stronger together. At Canadian Film Fest, we are committed to creating spaces where Canadian voices aren’t just heard, but celebrated.”

Industry highlights include a comprehensive masterclass on the essential tasks of pre-production led by award-winning producers lori lozinski (Little Bird, Don’t Even, Sugar Daddy) and Lauren Grant (Riot Girls, The Retreat, Sugar Daddy); You-CAN Pitch, a new program providing emerging Black Canadian filmmakers the opportunity to pitch their projects to a panel of industry experts and receive valuable feedback; The Art of Adaptation – Making Darkest Miriam, co-presented by inkcanada, featuring an in-depth conversation with screenwriter-director Naomi Jaye and author Martha Baillie about the creative journey of adapting Baillie’s The Incident Report into Jaye’s Darkest Miriam; and much more.

See below for the complete industry event offerings or visit canfilmfest.ca.

MASTERCLASS: Fix It in Prep
Sponsored by CMPA
Date: Monday, March 24, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Fix It in Prep is an in-depth 4-hour class designed to guide filmmakers through the essential tasks of pre-production for a greenlit feature film. Focused on streamlining the preparation process, this workshop covers everything that needs to be accomplished from before pre-production to pre-production through the last day of prep prior to commencing principal photography.

The workshop focuses on a week-by-week basis to best prepare for filming to minimize production challenges. Because they will happen, but you can prepare for them! We will be addressing how the script, financing, casting, budgeting, prep & production scheduling, hiring key creatives and crewing up relate to the prep and production timeline. By the end of the class, participants will have a clear roadmap for a successful pre-production process, ensuring that all tasks are completed on time and within budget before cameras roll.

Workshop Leaders:
lori lozinski, Producer, Violator Films, Little Bird, Don’t Even, Sugar Daddy
Lauren Grant, Producer, Clique Pictures, Riot Girls, The Retreat, Sugar Daddy

INDUSTRY SCREENING: Sugar Daddy (2021)
Date: Monday, March 24, 2025
Time: 4:15 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.

After gaining first-hand insights from the film’s producers on successfully navigating feature film production, experience the result of that journey on the big screen with Sugar Daddy—the multi-award-winning film that took home Best Feature at the 2021 Canadian Film Fest.

Directed by Wendy Morgan, written by and starring Kelly McCormack, and produced by Canadian Screen Award-winning producers Lori Lozinski, Lauren Grant, and Kelly McCormack, Sugar Daddy was released in the midst of the pandemic. Now, following the exclusive masterclass, it will have its first theatrical screening.

Witness how a well-executed production plan translates into a powerful, captivating film—showcasing the artistry, dedication, and strategic vision that brought Sugar Daddy to life.

Director: Wendy Morgan

Cast: Kelly McCormack, Colm Feore, Amanda Brugel, Nicholas Campbell, Ishan Davé, Aaron Ashmore, Kaniehtiio Horn, Khadijah Roberts-Abdullah

Synopsis:
Darren is a wickedly talented and unconventional young musician who dreams of making music like nobody has ever heard before. But she’s broke, juggling multiple part-time jobs, and has no time to create. Desperate for cash, she signs up to a sugar daddy paid-dating website and throws herself down a dark rabbit hole that forces her to grow up fast, shaping her music, and how she sees the world.

INDUSTRY SERIES PANELS, ROUNDTABLES AND CHEERS & CHATS:

GLOBAL VOICES, CANADIAN HEART: International Storytelling in Film
Co-Presented by ConneKt Film
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

This panel celebrates the diverse voices of filmmakers who have journeyed from across the globe to make their mark in the Canadian film industry. Explore how their unique perspectives shape the stories we tell, how co-productions bridge cultures, and how international storytelling is redefining Canadian cinema. Join us for an inspiring discussion on collaboration, creativity, and the power of storytelling without borders.

Moderator:
Anya Vagabova, ConneKt Films, Founder/CEO

Panelists:
Yazmeen Kanji, Film Director & Founder of Films With A Cause, One Day
Amir Kahnamouee, Writer, Please After You
Celestina Aleobua, Director/Producer, Tina, When Will You Marry?

SCOUTING T.O.: Finding the Perfect Location
Sponsored by xoTO and DGC Ontario
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location scouting isn’t just about where to film – it’s about how to elevate your entire story. Join industry insiders and location experts as they dive into the art of securing the perfect filming spot, maximizing your budget without sacrificing quality, and navigating local regulations with ease. Discover how to make the most of Toronto’s diverse cityscape while ensuring your creative vision comes to life. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker or working on a large-scale production, this panel will inspire you to unlock the ultimate cinematic canvas for your next project.

Moderator:
Magali Simard, Moderator, Cinespace, Director, Industry & Community Relations

Panelists:
Dason Johnson, Location Scout/Composer, No Fauxs Entertainment LTTD
Richard Hughes, DGC Locations Manager, The Apprentice
& more to be announced

FUNDED AND SEEN: Untapped Support for Canadian Creators
Co-presented by WebSeries Canada
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Finding support for your indie project in Canada requires creativity and financing beyond conventional streams. From regional initiatives to niche grants and broadcast partnerships, there are untapped opportunities to help indie creators bring their stories to audiences. This panel explores how filmmakers can connect with funders and broadcasters who are actively seeking to support fresh voices and compelling narratives.

Join industry experts as they share insider strategies on securing financial backing, navigating broadcaster relationships, and leveraging partnerships to maximize reach. Learn how to stretch your budget, turn financial roadblocks into creative solutions, and position your project for success. Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker or an indie creator looking to break through, discover the pathways to get your film or series funded, produced, and seen.

Moderator:
Katie Uhlmann, Filmmaker & WebSeries Canada President / TO. Webfest

Panelists:
Donna Cagnoli, Bell Fibe TV1, Producer,
Paul Gardner, Bell Fibe TV1, Senior Producer,
Melissa Amer, Telefilm, Regional Feature Film Executive for Ontario
Mitch Geddes, Neshama Entertainment, VP, Development and Current
Suzanne Marshall, Hollywood Suite, Senior Manager of Programming
Mark Shapland, Program Manager and Climate Lens Facilitator, Independent Production Fund

BREAKING IN: The Transition to Directing
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Many of the industry’s most successful directors started in other film roles. But how do you make the transition from working behind the scenes to leading the creative vision of a film? This roundtable brings together filmmakers who have successfully made the leap to directing, sharing their experiences, challenges, and lessons learned. From building confidence and networking to securing funding and gaining industry recognition, learn how to take that next step in your career and bring your vision to the director’s chair.

Moderator:
Shawn Gerrard, Film & Television Director, Jane, Space & Time

Participants:
Nick Butler, Writer/Director/Producer Cloudy Pictures Inc., The Legend of Cloudy Falls
Joanna Tsanis, Writer & Director, The Killgrin, Bloody Bites
Meelad Moaphi, Director & Screenwriter, His Father’s Son
Dan Abramovici, Actor/Filmmaker, Spaceman

BRANDING, HUSTLING, & THRIVING: The Future of Film in Canada
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 4:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.

In an ever-evolving industry, Canadian filmmakers and creatives are carving out their own paths through self-promotion, strategic branding, and financial sustainability. This panel brings together industry professionals from various roles to explore how they navigate the business side of film while staying true to their craft.

From leveraging social media to building a recognizable brand, securing funding, and monetizing creative work, this discussion will offer actionable insights for emerging and established professionals alike. This panel breaks down strategies to not only keep the lights on but to thrive in the Canadian film landscape.

Moderator:
Eric Bizzarri, Future of Films Showcase Co-Founder and CEO

Panelists:
Amira de Vera, Project Four Public Relations Founder/Owner
Christina Ienna, Director of Photography
Shant Joshi, President/Executive Producer, Fae Pictures
Aisha Evelyna, Actor/Filmmaker, Nola

BEHIND THE LIGHTS: The Art & Craft of Cinematography
Sponsored by xoTO
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

This panel explores the intricate craft of the camera team, from the technical mastery of framing, movement, and lighting to the creative collaboration that shapes a film’s visual storytelling. Industry professionals will discuss how cinematographers work hand-in-hand with directors, how to foster strong teamwork on set, and why seamless coordination between camera operators, gaffers, and grips is essential to cinematic success. Whether you’re behind the camera or working alongside it, discover the key to creating compelling, visually stunning films through the power of collaboration.

Moderator:
Warren Sonoda, Filmmaker, DGC National President

Panelists:
Rico Moran, His Father’s Son, I Like Movies
Gayle Ye, Paying for It, Late Bloomer, Bria Mack Gets a Life
& more to be announced

DRESSED TO TELL: Costumes & Makeup as Storytelling Tools
Sponsored by xoTO
Co-presented by CAFTCAD & NABET 700
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 p.m.

Costumes and Makeup are more than just visual elements – they are powerful storytelling tools that shape character, time, and emotion. From period dramas to futuristic worlds, every fabric choice, color palette, and brushstroke adds depth to a story. This panel brings together costume designers, makeup artists, and filmmakers to discuss how these creative elements help build characters, enhance narrative, and bring a director’s vision to life. Discover the craft and symbolism behind these crucial crew roles and learn how these visual elements shape a film’s narrative, build authenticity, and create unforgettable on-screen looks.

Moderator:
Joanna Syrokomla, Costume Designer, CAFTCAD Awards Chair

Panelists:
Kristin Somborac, Costume Designer
Darynel Weekly, Wardrobe Stylist
& more to be announced

BEYOND THE RED CARPET: The Future of Film Promotion
Co-Presented by Canadian Film Centre (CFC)
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Over the past decade how films garner audiences has undergone a seismic shift. Alongside traditional press tours and reviews are TikTok trends, influencer partnerships and AI driven marketing. Simultaneously, streaming platforms have redefined release strategies, and independent films are finding new paths to visibility in an increasingly fragmented media landscape. This panel explores the current state of film promotion, how publicity strategies have adapted, and what the future holds. How do filmmakers cut through the noise? What role do critics and entertainment media still play? And how can Canadian filmmakers maximize impact in this rapidly changing ecosystem? Join us for a deep dive into the evolving promotional playbook for film in the digital age.

Moderated by:
Rakhee Sapra, Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications, CFC

Panelists to be announced

THE ART OF ADAPTATION – Making Darkest Miriam
Co-presented by inkcanada
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Time: 1:40 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Join celebrated screen and television writer Karen Walton in conversation with director Naomi Jaye and author Martha Baillie as they discuss the creative journey of adapting Baillie’s The Incident Report into Jaye’s Darkest Miriam. This panel delves into the artistic choices that shape a literary work’s transformation for the screen – from acquisition and script develop.m.ent to performance and production. Through behind-the-scenes insights, discover how this award-winning film captures the essence of the novel, bringing its world to life in a compelling new cinematic form.

Moderated by:
Karen Walton, Screenwriter, inkcanada Founder

Panelists:
Naomi Jaye, Screenwriter/Director, Darkest Miriam
Martha Baillie, Author, The Incident Report

PITCHING THE UNKNOWN: How to Sell & Craft Your Unscripted Show
Date: Friday, March 28, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

How do you pitch a show when you don’t know exactly how the story will unfold? Whether it’s a documentary feature, reality series, or lifestyle show, selling unscripted content requires a unique approach—one that balances a strong concept with flexibility for real-world developments.

This panel brings together seasoned producers, network executives, and unscripted filmmakers to break down the art of pitching and creating the unknown. Learn how to craft a compelling vision, define your format, showcase access to key subjects, and anticipate potential story arcs—even when the outcome is uncertain.

Panelists:
Billie Mintz, Filmmaker, Gold Bars: Who the F*ck is Uncle Ludwig?
& more to be announced

SPECIAL SHOWCASES

CFF & Firecracker Department Present: The 2025 Comedy Igniter Showcase
Sponsored by Scotiabank
Co-presented by WIFT+
Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

A special presentation showcasing the top selected creative comedies from The Comedy Igniter, a film challenge created by Canadian Film Fest and Firecracker Department, where female and non-binary filmmakers were invited to write, shoot, and deliver a comedic short film within a four week timeline. Each Igniter will present their film and receive feedback and advice for their short comedy film from a live panel of comedy and filmmaking professionals.

Host:
Naomi Snieckus, Firecracker Department

Panelists:
Lauren MacKinlay, Bell Media, Develop.m.ent Executive, Original Programming, Scripted
Sarah Quan, CBC, Executive in Charge of Develop.m.ent, Comedy
Aurora Browne, Actor & Comedian, Baroness Von Sketch Show
Melissa D’Agostino, Actor/Writer/Director/Producer, Highball TV Co-Founder
Samantha MacAdam, Director, Shelved, This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Prom Night

You-CAN Pitch
Sponsored by Rhombus Media, Shaftesbury, and DGC Ontario
Date: Friday, March 28, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Join us for an exciting live pitch competition where five finalists will take the stage to present their film projects to a panel of top industry experts, competing for their chance to win an exclusive prize pack worth $25,000 of in-kind project-building prizes and develop.m.ent cash! Watch as these directors and teams pitch their ideas in real time, receiving insightful feedback from key decision-makers who shape the future of film and television.This high-energy event is both an insider’s look at the pitching process and a showcase of emerging talent. Don’t miss your chance to see the future of Canadian film in the making!

Mentors:
Shawn Gerrard, Director, Jane, Space & Time
Duane Crichton, Writer/Director, Home, Murdoch Mysteries
Cory Bowles, Director, Black Cop, Diggstown

Panel Jury:
RT Thorne, Director, 40 Acres,The Porter
Floyd Cane, Director/Producer, Diggstown, Across the Line
Carolyn Mauricette, Director of Canadian Programming, Fantasia International Film Festival
Hilary Hart, Co-President, Game Theory Films
Alan Bacchus, Business Affairs Consultant/Producer, New Metric Media

About the Canadian Film Fest
The Canadian Film Fest (CFF) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling by exclusively showcasing Canadian films. The festival unites film-loving audiences with diverse selections of features and shorts from across the country. The CFF provides Canadian filmmakers with essential professional development and networking opportunities through its Industry Series and awards.

#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM FEST LAUNCH YOU-CAN PITCH COMPETITION

The Canadian Film Fest (CFF) is thrilled to announce the launch of the You-CAN Pitch Competition, a dynamic new program designed to provide emerging Black Canadian filmmakers with the opportunity to pitch their projects to a panel of industry experts and receive valuable feedback. The competition is open to both individuals and teams, with up to five finalists invited to take part in an exclusive in-person pitch session.

The You-CAN Pitch Competition will offer finalists a chance to present their film projects to a hand-picked panel of experienced industry professionals, who will provide constructive insights and guidance to help elevate their creative visions. Following the pitch session, participants will engage in organized meetings with select panelists for further discussions and networking opportunities.

CFF’s inaugural You-CAN Pitch Competition is grateful for the support from our designated mentors Shawn Gerrard (Jane, Space & Time) and Duane Crichton (Home, Murdoch Mysteries). R.T.Thorne (40 Acres, The Porter), Floyd Kane (Diggstown, Across the Line), Carolyn Mauricette (Director of Canadian Programming, Fantasia International Film Festival), and more to be announced will participate on the jury to select the winning pitch. This program is developed and hosted by CFF Programmer Richard Pierre.

The selected finalists will also receive CFF passes, granting access to the festival’s industry events and networking opportunities. This provides a chance for filmmakers to make valuable connections, discover new industry trends, and expand their creative horizons.

“The You-CAN Pitch Competition is an exciting opportunity to engage with top-tier industry professionals and refine your filmmaking pitch,” said CFF Executive Director, Bern Euler. “At the Canadian Film Fest, we’re committed to supporting emerging talent and fostering the next generation of filmmakers, and this competition is a perfect platform for them to showcase their work and take it to the next level.”

Finalists will be chosen based on the strength of their pitches, creative concepts, and readiness to develop their projects further. Applications are now open, and the deadline for submission is Friday March 3, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST. To apply or for more details on the program, visit https://www.canfilmfest.ca/youcan-pitch-2025.

This Program is generously sponsored by Shaftesbury, Rhombus Media, with Prizes totalling over 20K from Sunbelt Rentals, PurpleDOG Post, and more prizes to be announced.

About the Canadian Film Fest
The Canadian Film Fest (CFF) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling by exclusively showcasing Canadian films. The festival unites film-loving audiences with diverse selections of features and shorts from across the country. The CFF provides Canadian filmmakers with essential professional development and networking opportunities through its Industry Series and awards.

(Photo credit: Shawn Goldberg)

#FIRSTLOOK: “WITH LOVE AND A MAJOR ORGAN” WINS BEST FEATURE AT 2024 CANADIAN FILM FEST

Canadian Film Fest (CFF) presented by Super Channel, the indie-spirited festival dedicated to celebrating Canadian filmmakers, revealed the 2024 award winners on Saturday, March 23, 2024 following a successful 6-day event at Toronto’s Scotiabank Theatre.

Kim Albright’s With Love and a Major Organ won Best Feature, Anna Fahr was honoured with DGC Ontario Best Director award for her film Valley of Exile, and Jonas Chernick & Diana Frances’s The Burning Season won the feature film jury award for Best Screenplay. Additionally, Eva Thomas’s Redlights won Best Short Film and Ian Harnarine’s film, Doubles, was awarded the Reel Canadian Indie Award and took home People’s Pick for Best Flick.

“We’re so proud to have showcased amazing storytellers on the big screen from filmmakers in our own backyard. The joy and excitement inside the theatre throughout the festival reminds us of the power of film to captivate, enlighten, and unite audiences. Congratulations to all of this year’s award winners!” said Ashleigh Rains, Festival Director, Canadian Film Fest.

See below for the complete list of winners for CFF 2024. For more information, visit canfilmfest.ca.

The 2024 Canadian Film Fest Award Winners:

BEST FEATURE – With Love and a Major Organ

DGC ONTARIO BEST DIRECTOR – Anna Fahr for Valley of Exile

REEL CANADIAN INDIE AWARD – Doubles
*This award honours a film that exemplifies the spirit of indie filmmaking.

BEST SHORT FILM – Redlights

BEST SHORT FILM PRODUCER – Kiarash Dadgar for The Steak
*This prize is awarded to a BIPOC short film producer and includes a 2025 CFF All-Access festival pass

BOUNDLESS IMAGINATIONS BEST WRITING FOR SHORT FILM – Charles Dionne for Virga

PEOPLE’S PICK FOR BEST FLICK – Doubles

Feature Film Jury Awards:
The feature film jury included Adrian Murray (Filmmaker), Navin Ramaswaran (Director & Editor), Cory Bowles (Actor & Director), and Sarah Booth (Actor).

SCREENPLAY – Jonas Chernick & Diana Frances for The Burning Season

BEST PERFORMANCE – Taylor Olson for Look at Me

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR – Errol Sitahal for Doubles

Short Film Jury Awards:
The short film jury consisted of Nathalie Younglai (Writer & Director), Patrick Yang (Talent Agent, Oldfield Management), and Madeline Rose (Co-Chair, outACTRAto).

BEST COMEDY PERFORMANCE – EITR

BEST COMEDY SHORT – Dead Cat

BEST ANIMATED SHORT – Boat People

BEST SHORT DOCUMENTARY – Hello Anson

BEST DRAMATIC PERFORMANCE – Gauri Prasad for Rock the Cradle

HONOURABLE MENTION – Breathe

About the Canadian Film Fest:

The Canadian Film Fest is a non-profit organization whose mission is to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling by exclusively showcasing Canadian films. The festival unites film-loving audiences with diverse selections of features and shorts from across the country. The CFF provides Canadian filmmakers with essential professional development and networking opportunities through its Industry Series and awards.

#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM FEST 2024 OPENING NIGHT RED CARPET

Canadian Film Fest (CFF) 2024 kicked off its six-day festival on Monday, March 18 at Scotiabank Theatre with the Toronto debut of Ian Harnarine’s feature film Doubles.

CFF welcomed cast and crew from Doubles as well as the other filmmakers screening their work at this year’s festival.

The Burning Season is set to cap-off the Festival as the Closing Night Gala on March 23, 2024.

CFF was also honoured to welcome Mayor Olivia Chow, who shared remarks prior to the screening. Also in attendance.

Bern Euler, Executive Director/Founder, CFF

Ashleigh Rains, Festival Director, CFF

Jen Pogue, Director of Industry, CFF

Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik

Naomi Snieckus, Actor

Photos below:

The evening concluded with a Q&A with Ian Harnarine hosted by Teri Hart.

Canadian Film Fest continues until March 23, full programme here.

(Photo credit: Brian Simon)

#FIRSTLOOK: 2024 CANADIAN FILM FEST LINEUP ANNOUNCEMENT

Canadian Film Fest (CFF) presented by Super Channel, the indie-spirited festival dedicated to celebrating Canadian filmmakers, today announced its lineup for the 2024 edition. New this year, CFF is extending the Festival to six days and expanding its shorts programming by screening six dedicated Homegrown Shorts programs, including a spotlight on Toronto filmmakers. CFF will return to Cineplex’s Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto, showcasing 11 features and 45 shorts and will take place March 18 – 23, 2024. Tickets go on sale March 4 and can be purchased at canfilmfest.ca.

CFF will transport cinefiles across Canada with feature films from Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia. The Festival will kick off with Ian Harnarine’s Doubles, executive produced by Spike Lee, about a Trinidadian street vendor who travels to Toronto to decide if he will help save his estranged father from dying. The film is adapted from Ian’s acclaimed short Doubles with Slight Pepper, which won Best Canadian Short Film at TIFF 2011 and Best Live Action Short Drama at the 2012 CSAs. Other festival highlights include Audrey Cummings’ Western Place of Bones starring Heather Graham and Tom Hopper about a bank robbery gone wrong in 1876; Anna Fahr’s compelling Valley of Exile, about two sisters seeking refuge in Lebanon after fleeing their home during the Syrian civil war; Winnipeg director Sean Garrity’s moving film The Burning Season chronicling an affair unfolding backwards in a reverse narrative; and the deeply personal documentary WaaPake (Tomorrow) where director Dr. Jules Arita Koostachin shares the impact and suffering of residential school Survivors.

“We are so proud to continue uniting film lovers with an outstanding lineup, celebrating Canadian stories that resonate with people across the nation. From heartfelt narratives to bold cinematic visions, this year’s program champions fresh new voices that will captivate and inspire. At CFF, we have a rich tradition of amplifying Canadian talent exclusively, and we can’t wait to welcome new and returning audiences and filmmakers to the festival to share some of the most innovative works our country has to offer,” said Ashleigh Rains, Festival Director, Canadian Film Fest.

In addition to each feature film being preceded by a short, the CFF will also present six Homegrown Shorts programs. These enlightening and diverse stories dive into an array of subject matters such as addiction, identity, cultural heritage, rebellion, cosmic disasters and more. Highlights include Aaron Hong and M.R. Horhager’s animated short Three Trees, narrated by Whoopi Goldberg about three young trees who learn about themselves, friendship and their place in the world; Christopher Yip’s Fish Boy a tender meditation on religion, queerness, and polyamory through the eyes of an Asian American teenager; Katie Uhlmann’s When You Know You…Know? about how social media affects our everyday lives; Eva Thomas’s Redlights where an evening outing takes a dangerous turn for two Indigenous women; and Katia Café-Fébrissy’s Still Waters about a young queer couple coping with the loss of their child.

CFF is proud to partner with Super Channel, Scotiabank, Heritage Canada and other generous sponsors and granting agencies and grateful for their ongoing support of the festival, Canadian film, and artists.

BY THE NUMBERS:

56 Total Films
11 (20%) Features
45 (80%) Shorts
35 (63%) Toronto Shorts
35 (63%) BIPOC Filmmakers
33 (59%) Female/Non-Binary Filmmakers

Click here for the complete festival schedule or visit canfilmfest.ca.

#FIRSTLOOK: 2023 CANADIAN FILM FEST WINNERS ANNOUNCED

The Canadian Film Fest (CFF), an indie-spirited festival dedicated to celebrating Canadian filmmakers, revealed the award winners for their 2023 edition on Saturday, April 1, 2023 following a successful 5-day festival at Toronto’s Scotiabank Theatre and virtually across Canada on Super Channel Fuse.

Monia Chokri’s Babysitter won Best Feature and Best Set Design, Adrian Murray was honoured with DGC Ontario’s Best Director award for his film Retrograde, Fanie Pelletier’s documentary, Bloom, was awarded the William F. White Reel Canadian Indie Award, and Sandrine Brodeur-Desrosiers’s How To Get My Parents To Divorce won the feature film jury awards. Additionally, Joy Webster’s Menace won Best Short Film and Polarized took home People’s Pick for Best Flick.

“Congratulations to all of this year’s Canadian Film Fest winners. We’re honoured to be part of the film’s journey,” said Ashleigh Rains, Festival Director, Canadian Film Fest. “We are immensely proud of the incredible line-up of homegrown films we were able to showcase and grateful to those who participated and supported CFF this year. A special thanks to the jury who carefully reviewed all of the films and to Super Channel for being an amazing partner.”

See below for the complete list of winners for the 2023 Canadian Film Fest. For more information, visit canfilmfest.ca.

The 2023 Canadian Film Fest Award Winners:

BEST FEATURE – Babysitter

DGC ONTARIO’S BEST DIRECTOR – Adrian Murray, Retrograde

BEST SET DESIGN – Babysitter

WILLIAM F. WHITE REEL CANADIAN INDIE AWARD – Bloom
*The winner will receive a $5,000 gift certificate for equipment rental at William F. White.

BEST SHORT FILM – Menace

BEST SHORT FILM PRODUCER – Shyam Valera, Desi Standard Time Travel

PEOPLE’S PICK FOR BEST FLICK – Polarized

Feature Film Jury Awards:
The feature film jury included Barb Godfrey (The Arthur Agency), Jonas Chernick (actor and screenwriter), Faran Moradi (director) and Stephanie Sonny Hooker (producer).

BEST SCREENPLAY – How To Get My Parents To Divorce

BEST YOUTH ENSEMBLE – How To Get My Parents To Divorce, Charlotte St-Martin, Liam Patenaude, Charlie Fortier, Louka Amadeo Bélanger-Leos, Simone Laperle

Short Film Jury Awards:
The short film jury consisted of Michelle McLeod (actor), Emily Andrews (producer) and Rodrigo Fernandez-Stoll (actor).

BEST DOCUMENTARY – Quiet Minds Silent Streets

BEST PERFORMANCE – Eric Peterson, Junior’s Giant

BREAKOUT PERFORMANCE – Cassandra Paige, No Bedroom

BEST ENSEMBLE – The Untouchable

OUTSTANDING ANIMATION – Corvine

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY – There Was Nothing

About the Canadian Film Fest

The Canadian Film Fest (CFF) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to supporting Canadian independent films and cultivating emerging and established filmmaking talent. Film-loving audiences come to enjoy a diverse selection of 100% Canadian film screenings (features & shorts) and filmmakers flock to the CFF’s various industry events to take advantage of essential networking opportunities. CFF’s mission is to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling by showcasing Canadian films and filmmakers.

#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM FEST 2023 LINEUP ANNOUNCED

Super Channel and the Canadian Film Fest (CFF), an indie-spirited festival dedicated to celebrating Canadian filmmakers, are pleased to team up for the fourth time to present a hybrid festival from March 28 to April 1. Canadian Film Fest Presented by Super Channel will showcase nine features, 25 shorts, and a digital series, running concurrently for audiences to enjoy in-person at Toronto’s Scotiabank Theatre and virtually on Super Channel Fuse. Tickets for the theatrical screenings can be purchased at canfilmfest.ca starting March 7, 2023.

“With the festival returning to the theatre this year, we are proud to be able to continue our partnership with the team at the CFF to bring these unique and engaging Canadian stories to a national audience to enjoy,” said Don McDonald, President and CEO, Super Channel.

“We have continued to see an incredible amount of submissions from Canadian filmmakers of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. The level of talent and originality truly demonstrates the need for more homegrown storytelling. We’re proud to partner with Super Channel again to give cinephiles across Canada the opportunity to watch some of the best Canadian films and we’re also thrilled to invite local audiences back into the theatre,” said Ashleigh Rains, Festival Director, Canadian Film Fest.

The festival will open with the Toronto premiere of the Quebec-made comedy, Babysitter from director Monia Chokri, which was recently nominated for multiple 2023 Canadian Screen Awards. Adapted by Canadian playwright and screenwriter Catherine Léger’s play of the same name, and starring Patrick Hivon, Monia Chokri, Nadia Tereszkiewicz and Steve Laplante, the film explores what happens to a man after a sexist joke goes viral and the therapeutic journey he embarks on to free himself from sexism and misogyny. Opening night will also include the World Premiere of Streams Flow From a River as an exclusive Super Channel presentation. This six-episode short digital series directed by Christopher Yip is a character-driven drama about the struggles immigrant families face while trying to make a home. This marks the festival’s first digital series to be part of its line-up.

The Canadian premiere of the Super Channel Original feature film, Wintertide from writer/director John Barnard will close the festival. The film stars Niamh Carolan as a volunteer watchperson of an isolated northern city who battles a plague of depression that transforms the few remaining residents into empty, zombie-like automatons.

The festival includes an incredible line up of feature films this year including the Canadian Premiere of Polarized by director Shamim Sarif, about the unexpected connection between two women from the same town as they face barriers of race, religion and class; the documentary Bloom by director Fanie Pelletier, which explores the world of today’s teen girls; and Bystanders directed by Koumbie where a group of childhood friends share their traditional weekend getaway and forced to confront the elephant in the room. CFF will proudly showcase 25 Canadian short films including Joy Webster’s Menace about a young woman who gets reverent against her ex-boyfriend; Alex from director Aisha Evelyna following an unassuming Black woman shopping with her friend who is forced to reckon with judgement when all-too-familiar oppressive systems kick into gear; and Sean McCarron’s comedy Corvine about an eccentric boy who has trouble fitting in at school due to his obsession with crows.

This year’s slate of compelling Canadian features and shorts includes 61% female and 54% BIPOC filmmakers.

See below for the complete festival schedule or visit at canadianfilmfest.ca. All of the feature films will be available on Super Channel and will have a limited broadcast presentation during the festival’s run.

The 2023 Canadian Film Fest presented by Super Channel features schedule:

(All feature presentations both in theatre and on-air are preceded by a brief introduction and short film. All times are ET. Check local listings for Super Channel broadcast times)

Tuesday, March 28:

7 pm ET – Babysitter (Drama) – Toronto Premiere
Director: Monia Chokri
Cast: Patrick Hivon, Monia Chokri, Nadia Tereszkiewicz, Steve Laplante
Middle-aged Cédric is suspended from work after drunkenly kissing a female reporter on live TV. Stuck at home with his girlfriend, Nadine and their crying baby, Cédric teams up with his brother, Jean-Michel, to co-author a book apologizing for their past misogyny. Enter Amy: a mysterious and provocative young babysitter who, like a Mary Poppins of the libido, forces the trio to confront their sexual anxieties while turning their lives upside down.

Opening with the short film Momma’s Boy (director Sonny Atkins, World Premiere)

9 pm ET (Special Super Channel broadcast presentation only) – Streams Flow From a River (Drama) – World premiere (Super Channel Original Production)
Director: Christopher Yip
Cast: Jane Luk, Jinny Wong, Raymond Chan, Danielle Ayow, Liam Ma, Simon Sinn, Benjamin Sutherland, Brett Houghton, Wesley French
A freak snowstorm traps a dysfunctional Chinese Canadian family together in their rural Albertan hometown, forcing them to confront the events a decade prior that tore them all apart.

Wednesday, March 29:

7 pm ET – When Time Got Louder (Drama) – Toronto Premiere
Director: Connie Cocchia
Cast: Willow Shields; Locklyn Munro; Elizabeth Mitchell; Jonathan Simao
Departing for college, Abbie leaves her parents and brother who has autism and is non-verbal. As she explores her independence and sexuality, she’s torn between her new life and her love for her brother.

Opening with the short film Great Seeing You (director Holly Pruner, Toronto Premiere)

9 pm ET – Bystanders (Drama) – Toronto Premiere (produced in association with Super Channel)
Director: Koumbie
Cast: Marlee Sansom, Katelyn McCulloch, Deborah Castrilli, Cavell Holland, Peter Sarty, Taylor Olson
Kyle is Justin’s brother, Zeke is Justin’s roommate, Lily is Justin’s biggest fan, Sophia is Justin’s critic and Ayda is Justin’s first love. This group of childhood friends, now in their 20s, share their traditional spring weekend getaway and are forced to confront the elephant in the room: Justin.

Opening with the short film There Are No Children Here (director Shehrezade Mian, Toronto premiere)

Thursday, March 30:

7 pm ET – How to Get My Parents to Divorce (Comedy) – Toronto Premiere
Director: Sandrine Brodeur-Desrosiers
Cast: Charlotte St-Martin, Isabelle Blais, Pierre-Luc Brillant, Liam Patenaude, Charlie Fortier, Louka Amadeo Bélanger-Leos et Simone Laperle
Justine is about to finish grade six and is tired of her parents fighting all the time. Maybe she’ll be happier if they divorce? In order to force their hand, the pre-teen decides to create her own court. The end-of-school-year show is the pretext for this. With her friends, she must find young people from her entourage who will serve as lawyers and judges. When her plan turns into an obsession, her friendships may suffer. Especially since the situation could very well escape her…

Opening with the short film Sissy (directors Caleb Harwood, Simon Paluck, World Premiere)

9 pm ET – Golden Delicious (Drama) – Toronto Premiere
Director: Jason Karman
Cast: Cardi Wong, Chris Carson, Parmiss Sehat, Ryan Mah, Leeah Wong, Claudia Kai, Jesse Hyde, Hunter Dillon, Zavien Garrett, Jeffrey Joseph
When basketball-obsessed Aleks moves in across the street, Asian-Canadian teen Jake finds himself trying out for the basketball team to get his attention in this classic coming-of-age drama set in the digital age.

Opening with the short film majboor-e-mamool (director Haaris Qadri, Toronto Premiere)

Friday, March 31:

7 pm ET – Bloom (Documentary) – Toronto Premiere
Director: Fanie Pelletier
Through moments in the lives of three groups of girls, images gleaned from the web and live streams of young women around the world, BLOOM delves into the world of today’s teenage girls. We delicately observe a hyper-connected but lonely generation inhabited by great lucidity, an inner struggle with self-image obsession, and a need for self-affirmation in the face of a complex sense of alienation.

Opening with the short film Shallots and Garlic (aka Bawang Merah Bawang Putih) (directed by Andrea Nirmala Widjajanto, Toronto Premiere)

9 pm ET – Retrograde (Drama) – Toronto Premiere
Director: Adrian Murray
Cast: Molly Reisman, Sofia Banzhaf, Bessie Cheng, Meelad Moaphi, Dean Tardioli, Erik Anderson
A minor traffic citation spirals into an all-consuming obsession for a neurotic young woman.

Opening with the short film Alex (director Aisha Evelyna, Toronto Premiere)

Saturday, April 1:

2 pm ET – Homegrown Shorts Program 1 – featuring Corvine, Amani, The Untouchable, Junior’s Giant, Soap, Everything Will Be Alright, October 5^th, Quiet Minds Silent Streets

4 pm ET – Homegrown Shorts Program 2 – featuring The Temple, There Was Nothing, Bach Ma, Fursona, Call Me Daddy, No Bedroom, The English Teacher, Desi Time Travel

7 pm ET – Polarized (Drama) – Canadian Premiere
Director: Shamim Sarif
Cast: Holly Deveaux, Maxine Denis, Tara Samuel, Adam Hurtig, Hesham Hammoud, Abraham Asto, Baraka Rahmani
North America, present day. In a fading small town, Lisa goes to work at an ‘urban farm’ – the kind of controlled production that has helped push traditional farms like her family’s out of business. The political climate – leaning against immigrants – feels threatening for the urban farm owners – Dalia and her successful, Muslim family. Weeks before Dalia’s wedding, a heated encounter between the two women exposes deep prejudices and results in Lisa losing her job. But it’s only the start of an unexpected connection between these two women from the same town, but very different worlds. As the pair face a growing attraction, they will have to break the barriers of race, religion and class that separate them, or risk settling for the lives their families have laid out.

Opening with the short film Rachel and Raha (director Nedda Sarshar, Toronto Premiere)

9 pm ET – Wintertide (Drama, Horror, Zombie) – Canadian Premiere (Super Channel Original)
Director: John Barnard
Cast: Niamh Carolan, Solange Sookram, Jeremy Walmsley, Michael O’Sullivan
Beth, a volunteer watch person of an isolated northern city battles a plague of depression that transforms the few remaining residents into empty, zombie-like automatons. She discovers that by entering an alternative dimension through her own dreams, she’s able to stave off the illness during the long, possibly endless winter. But will her power be enough to sustain her?

Opening with the short film Menace (director Joy Webster, Toronto Premiere)

Sunday, April 2: Rebroadcast of winning films (to be announced)

#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM FEST X SUPER CHANNEL PARTNER TO BRING FESTIVAL HOME TO VIEWERS

Super Channel and Canadian Film Fest are partnering again this year to bring the Festival home to Canadians!

Beginning Thursday, April 1 and running for three consecutive weekends, nine feature films will premiere on Super Channel Fuse on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 9 p.m. ET/PT. All festival feature films will have a linear only limited run, so viewers are encouraged to catch them while they can and experience them festival-style during their linear broadcast. In addition, 30 short films from the CFF will be interspersed into the schedule around the feature film presentations for viewers to enjoy as part of the film festival experience.

Virtually, pre-recorded and live Q&As with filmmakers will be made available, in addition to access to industry programs online (panel discussions, masterclass) and a virtual awards presentation.

Opening the Festival this year is Sugar Daddy (dir. Wendy Morgan), starring Kelly McCormack (Letterkenny, A Simple Favour) and Colm Feore (The Umbrella Academy, Sensitive Skin, The Borgias), which follows a young talented musician who signs up to a paid dating website which takes her down a dark path – and her music along with it. Closing out the festival on April 17, will be Range Roads (dir. Kyle Thomas) making its Canadian premiere. Starring Alana Hawley-Purvis (The Great Fear) and Joe Perry (Everfall, Blood Mountain), this poignant film is an intimate story of grief, longing, and forgiveness, that explores the painful and beautiful complexities of what it means to be a family.

A complete list of Films below:

Thursday, April 1: Sugar Daddy (Drama) – Toronto premiere
Director: Wendy Morgan
Cast: Kelly McCormack, Colm Feore, Amanda Brugel, Ishan Davé, Nicholas Campbell, Kaniehtiio Horn, Aaron Ashmore, Noam Jenkins
Darren is a wickedly talented and unconventional young musician who dreams of making music like nobody has ever heard before. But she’s broke, juggling multiple part-time jobs, and has no time to create. Desperate for cash, she signs up to a sugar daddy paid-dating website and throws herself down a dark rabbit hole that forces her to grow up fast, shaping her music, and how she sees the world.

Friday, April 2: White Elephant (Drama) – Toronto premiere
Director: Andrew Chung
Cast: Zaarin Bushra, Gurleen Singh, Dulmika Kevin Hapuarachchi, Jesse Nasmith, Yahya Amin, Kumar Kapasi, Amanda Catibog, Kalyna Fisher, Riley James Myers, Kessandra Cook
Set in 1996, in a majority-minority neighbourhood in Scarborough, 16-year-old Pooja finds herself torn between her crush on a white boy, and her Brown and Black friends. Her relentless pursuit takes a violent turn, ultimately making her quest for love, a question of self-love.

Saturday, April 3: Woman in Car (Drama) – Canadian premiere
Director: Vanya Rose
Cast: Hélène Joy, Liane Balaban, Gabrielle Lazure, Aidan Ritchie, Anthony Lemke
Anne seems to have it all – sophistication, a house on the hill, an upcoming wedding to the ideal man. But when her stepson returns home with a beautiful woman, Anne develops an obsession with the stranger whom she fears could destroy the privileged life she has built. In a story about a woman who struggles to keep her secrets hidden, Vanya Rose explores issues of class, family, desire and deception. As the countdown to her wedding day winds down, Anne drives head-on into redemption from a life of lies.

Thursday, April 8: Chained (Crime, Thriller) – Toronto premiere
Director: Titus Heckel
Cast: Marlon Kazadi, Aleks Paunovic, Adrian Holmes
An abused and bullied boy discovers and befriends a criminal chained inside an abandoned warehouse, but after a violent betrayal the abused becomes the abuser, putting both their lives in peril.

Friday, April 9: Between Waves (Drama, Sci-Fi) – Toronto premiere
Director: Virginia Abramovich
Cast: Fiona Graham, Luke Robinson, Miguel Damiao, Stacey Bernstein, Sebastian Deery
Even after his presumed death, Jamie continues to be visited by her lover Isaac, a quantum physicist, who pleads for her to join him in a parallel plane. Jamie follows a map and notebook Isaac’s left behind and embarks on a journey to the island of São Miguel in the Azores. At the centre of the Atlantic Ocean, Jamie begins to untangle the truth of what really happened the night Isaac disappeared, learning that she had a greater part in it than she cares to remember. Straddling a fine line between enlightenment and madness, how far will Jamie go before she’s in too deep?

Saturday, April 10: The Last Villains, Mad Dog & the Butcher (Documentary) – Toronto Premiere
Director: Thomas Rinfret
Cast: Paul Vachon, alias “The Butcher”
The Last Villains is the larger-than-life story of the legendary Vachon family of pro wrestlers, as recounted by its only surviving member, Paul “The Butcher” Vachon.

Thursday, April 15: The Corruption of Divine Providence (Drama) – Toronto premiere
Director: Jeremy Torrie
Cast: Ali Skovbye, Elyse Levesque, David La Haye, Corey Sevier, Tantoo Cardinal
This is the story of a sixteen-year-old Métis girl Jeanne. She resides in a small northern town, and one day she mysteriously disappears. When she is found, she is near death and has developed what appears to be stigmata, the wounds that echo those carried by Jesus Christ in his dying moments.

Friday, April 16: Events Transpiring Before, During and After a Highschool Basketball Game (Comedy) – Toronto premiere
Director: Ted Stenson
Cast: Andrew Phung, Benjamin Arthurs, Paul Cowling, Isra Abdelrahim
It’s 1999 and the Middleview Ducks boys’ basketball team are about to play the most low-stakes game of their lives. As the team prepares for another certain loss, the dramas around the game become more of a focus than the score. Locker room conversations about existentialism, an assistant coach’s obsession with an NBA offence technique, organizing a radical theatre protest, and frantically searching for an osteoporosis- stricken canine are just some of the events that take place before, during, and after the high school basketball game.

Saturday, April 17: Range Roads (Drama) – Canadian Premiere
Director: Kyle Thomas
Cast: Alana Hawley Purvis, Joe Perry, Chad Brownlee, Nicole de Boer
When her parents are killed in a sudden car accident, television actor Frankie King returns to her hometown in rural Alberta to face this tragedy after being estranged from her family for 20 years. As she struggles to reconnect with her truculent brother Grayson, old wounds are reopened, and family secrets uncovered.

All Features air at 9 PM ET with Short Film and introduction beforehand.

More details can be found here.

(Photo credit: Canadian Film Fest)

#CFF: “THE PRIVILEGED”, “PATCH TOWN” AND “AFTERPARTY” HIGHLIGHT 8TH ANNUAL CANADIAN FILM FEST

The eighth edition of the Canadian Film Fest takes place in Toronto this weekend.  The three-day Event taking place at The Royal in Little Italy, will showcase six Feature Films and 14 Short Films, aiming to celebrate, promote and help advance Canadian Filmmaking.

Festival Executive Director Bern Euler says, “It is an honour to present these films for Toronto audiences to enjoy and celebrate all of the talent in our own backyard.”.  Canadian Film Fans will have a chance to connect via Meet-and-Greets with Talent and Workshops also will be held.  A highlight of the Festival this year is the Super Channel Script Accelerator Contest, awarding $30,000-$50,000 in pre-licensing as a Grand Prize.

Opening the Festival this year is PATCH TOWN, Director Craig Goodwill’s Feature Debut starring none other than recent Canadian Screen Awards Fan’s Choice Winner Zoie Palmer, Julian Richings, Rob Ramsay and a highly-familiar face in Scott Thompson.

Official Synopsis:

Jon is just another mindless laborer on an assembly line, but at no ordinary factory. Day after day he and his fellow drones Harvest Kids from cabbages – kids that will go on to become the beloved toys of little Boys and Girls in the land outside this dreadful factory. But when Jon discovers an awful secret that he and all the indentured workers are actually grown-up and discarded toys, he’ll have to take on a villainous Corporation to reunite with his long-lost Mother, protect his newfound Family, and finally find freedom.

Watch the Trailer for Patchtown below:

Fans of HBO‘s True Blood will delight at a chance to see THE PRIVILEGED starring Series Star Sam Trammell.

Official Synopsis:

Richard Hunter, a promising young Lawyer at a prestigious Firm, has the perfect future mapped out. However, a costly mistake with a powerful client has put it all at risk. In a desperate attempt to save his job, Richard and his Wife Tara spend the weekend at the Cottage of Senior Partner Preston Westwood. The young Couple is quickly seduced by their charismatic Hosts’ lavish lifestyle but it is clear that something ominous lies just below the surface. After a devastating act of violence reveals that they have become pawns in a blood feud between the Westwoods and a local Family, Richard and Tara must decide what they are willing to sacrifice for success: their morals, their marriage, or their lives.

Watch the Trailer for THE PRIVILEGED below:

Rather intriguing is the hilarious-looking PLAY THE FILM.

Official Synopsis:

When the opening night of a new Play goes horribly awry, the actors are forced to frantically improvise the plot onstage. Clashing egos, tested friendships and a series of disastrous misunderstandings combine to create the most offensive, shocking and accidental piece of theater ever to debut in front of a live Audience.

See the Trailer for PLAY THE FILM:

AFTERPARTY closes the Festival this year, a 30-Something’s Coming-of-Age Drama.

Official Synopsis:

On the night of his brother’s wedding, Best Man Charlie (Graham Coffeng) gets the old Gang back together for a fun-filled, post-reception after party at the Newlyweds’ home where he has been staying for several weeks. Unsure of how to proceed with his own troubled marriage, Charlie reunites “the fellas” fifteen years after High School in hopes that revisiting the past will help him find clarity about his plans for the future. What Charlie finds, however, is that while his friends have all taken different paths, they are all faced with similar conundrums that come with being in their thirties.

See the Trailer below for AFTERPARTY:

Tickets cost a super-reasonable $12.50 and can be purchased here!

The Canadian Film Fest runs Thursday, March 20 through Saturday, March 22, 2014.

(Photo credit: Hideaway Pictures)