Past Events

October 13-22, 2023 Screening Venue: Galaxy Cinemas, located in the south end of Barrie at 72 Commerce Park Drive   The 26th edition of this ten-day multi-faceted festival provides a curated selection of films from all over the world with a particular emphasis on Canadian creators and their work. Event includes an international Short Film Competition, Directors Brunch, unique pop up parties, and special guests. There is something for everyone!  Check out the Films and Events!       Film…

Documentary | 90 min. | Canada | 2023     Two gritty teams of hobbyist cavers are poised to break records for the longest and deepest caves in Canada. With few places on Earth left to discover, caving may be the last remaining activity of true exploration. After discovering a flooded underground chamber kilometres underground, Katie, a daytime office-worker, becomes obsessed with returning to the Bisaro Anima cave in the Rockies to push the caving depth record. At the same…

Documentary | 99 min. | Canada | 2023     A deep look of the incredible devotion, artistry and sacrifices that Karen Kain and the National Ballet of Canada dancers make in their pursuit of creating something unique, meaningful and beautiful.   Opening night is sponsored by: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KaTmGFk3Fnk

Documentary | 78 min. | Canada | 2023     This powerful documentary features the truths of seven Survivors of Canada’s first and longest running residential school. FILMMAKER AND SPECIAL GUESTS IN ATTENDANCE Includes a post-screening Q&A with courageous Elders who survived the Mohawk Institute and the film’s Director Faith Howe.   https://vimeo.com/814655825

Documentary | 92 min. | Greenland/Denmark/Canada | 2023 Language: English, Danish, Kalaallisut, Inuktitut with English subtitles     Renowned Inuit lawyer Aaju Peter has led a lifelong fight for the rights of her people. When her son suddenly dies, Aaju embarks on a journey to reclaim her language and culture after a lifetime of whitewashing and forced assimilation. But is it possible to change the world and mend your own wounds at the same time?   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38tCGsidiTE

    This audience favourite is an exciting program that presents a selection of short films submitted by regional, national and international filmmakers. The 13 official selections will be screened at the Galaxy Cinemas and the Awards will follow at the offsite Filmmakers Party. You also have your chance to vote on your favourite!   Sponsored by:   Simcoe Category Award Sponsor: Simcoe Audio Video

Documentary | 113 min. | USA | 2023     Facing the end of a 60-year musical career, legendary singer and activist Joan Baez takes an honest look back and a deep look inward as she tries to make sense of her large history-making life and reveals, for the first time, personal struggles she’s kept private, until now.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pzu67QV5s2s

Documentary | 90 min. | Canada | 2022 Content advisory: abuse, disturbing images FILMMAKER AND SPECIAL GUESTS IN ATTENDANCE     In researching the fates of her two half-brothers, filmmaker Barri Cohen uncovers the tragic history of neglect and abuse of institutionalized patients at the Huronia Regional Centre in Orillia. This screening includes a Q&A with the film's director and courageous survivors that participated in the film.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2OxDvCng2Y