Regent Park Film Festival gives local talent the spotlight
And the award for the longest-running free film festival in Toronto goes to…Regent Park Film Festival, proudly sponsored by CBC Toronto!
From November 20 to 23, 2019, film lovers of all ages can take in a variety of free festival programming at Daniels Spectrum in Regent Park. With panels, virtual reality installations, workshops and screenings of award-winning films by local and international talent, there's no shortage of options.
Looking to spot the next great director? Don't miss the Emerging Directors' Spotlight and Pitch Competition on opening night, Wednesday November 20. The competition gives up-and-coming filmmakers the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a panel of judges for the chance to win a CBC development deal and a cash prize provided by RBC.
CBC Toronto screening on November 21 with Farrah Merali
On November 21, join CBC Toronto for the Shorts Program:Homecoming, a screening of locally produced shorts and web series episodes, hosted by reporter Farrah Merali. There will be free popcorn for the first 100 attendees (while supplies last).
Local stories and international award-winners
Our Dance of Revolution
Directed by Phillip Pike, this documentary highlights the evolution, activism and resilience of Toronto's black queer community from the 70s until present day. The film will screen alongside Haus, a short directed Joseph Amenta that follows a young queer boy in Toronto experiencing homelessness on his journey to find belonging.
They Should Be Flowers
In addition to the film screenings and workshops, the festival has a space for attendees to experience storytelling through Virtual Reality. Award-winning filmmaker Karen Chapman tells the story of a six-year-old black girl who was handcuffed by police in Ontario, examining the relationship between police and black communities in Canada.
Atlantics
The festival comes to a close on November 23 with a screening of French director Mati Diop's first feature film, which won the Jury Grand Prize at the 2019 Cannes Competition. Set in the bustling streets of Senegal's capital, Dakar, this film follows the story of two young lovers as they deal with change and tragedy.
Other noteworthy screenings to add to your calendar: Lulu Wang's critically acclaimed film The Farewell, starring Akwafina of Crazy Rich Asians fame, and nîpawistamâsowin a documentary that explores the Gerald Stanley trial, Canada's legal system and Colten Boushie's family as they search for justice.
For more information about Regent Park Film Festival and to RSVP for events, click here.