YFF_Program2025_WEB_ISSUU by yff1

May 21 – 25,

ART. LIFE. SASKATCHEWAN.

Yorkton Film Festival admirably celebrates and promotes Saskatchewan's media arts. Shining its light on the versatility and diversity of Canadian film artists, YFF is a vibrant stitch in the fabric of Saskatchewan's artistic culture.

Supporting the arts community for 75 years. Visit us at sk-arts.ca

SK Arts continues to be a proud partner of YFF in collaboration with SaskCulture funded by Sask Lotteries.

Welcome to the Yorkton Film Festival, North America’s longest running film festival. For 78 years, the Yorkton Film Festival has endeavored to highlight and reward the very best in Canadian content.

From Animation to Best Commercials, Fiction to Non-Fiction, Mental Health to Outstanding Colour Grading, the Yorkton Film Festival has been a showcase for Canadian content and has established itself as the Big City Festival with a country attitude.

Whether you’re a filmmaker, an industry insider, or a fan of great Canadian cinema we invite you to take in the in-person events and immerse yourself in everything the Festival has to offer.

MESSAGES

HER EXCELLENCY THE RIGHT HONOURABLE MARY SIMON

Governor General of Canada

I am pleased to convey warm greetings to everyone attending the 2025 Yorkton Film Festival (YFF). Films have the power to inspire, empower and connect people across cultures and perspectives. Established in 1947, the Festival is the longest-running event of its kind in North America. Beyond its flagship festivities, YYF focuses on the promotion of short film and documentaries through year-round screening, tour outreach and mentorship programs. YFF’s dedicated board of directors and staff can be proud of contributing to a legacy of excellence, while enhancing the growth and visibility of the Canadian film industry. Congratulations to the winners of the prestigious Golden Sheaf Awards! I wish everyone a wonderful festival.

HER HONOUR THE HONOURABLE BERNADETTE MCINTYRE

Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan

As our Sovereign’s representative in Saskatchewan, I am pleased to extend greetings on behalf of King Charles III, King of Canada, to the participants of the 2025 Yorkton Film Festival (YFF). Thank you to the City of Yorkton and its citizens for once again being such genial hosts to your visitors. Welcome to everyone who has travelled to the festival, especially first-time attendees to North America’s longest continuously running film festival! Since 1947, YFF has provided support and promotion for motion picture artists and screen-based media. Today, in addition to the annual festival, the organization offers year-round programming with screenings, classroom lesson plans, and a mentorship program that connects emerging filmmakers with established industry professionals. I am grateful to the dedicated board, staff, volunteers and partners who enable YFF to continue its legacy of celebrating short films. I applaud all of this year’s festival entrants for your determination in completing and distributing your work. Thank you for sharing your creativity. I also congratulate the winners of the 2025 Golden Sheaf Awards. Best wishes!

THE HONOURABLE SCOTT MOE

Premier of Saskatchewan

On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 78th annual Yorkton Film Festival! This beloved festival is a prominent cultural attraction in Saskatchewan and remains the longest continuing event of its type in North America – an impressive achievement for a community of almost 20,000 people. Whether you are from Yorkton, or visiting from afar, I hope you enjoy all this festival has to offer, and I encourage you to explore our beautiful province. Whether you are a filmmaker, a film enthusiast, or simply here to enjoy the art of storytelling, we hope you find inspiration and joy in every moment. Thank you to all the festival organizers, staff, volunteers and film industry professionals for your commitment to this event and to Canada’s finest filmmakers. All the best for a very successful festival in 2025.

THE HONOURABLE ALANA ROSS

Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport

Welcome to Yorkton, Saskatchewan and the 78th annual Yorkton Film Festival. The Yorkton Film Festival is a forum for collaboration, creative discussion, networking and professional development between Canadian filmmakers. It is also an opportunity to honour our country’s best filmography through the annual Golden Sheaf Awards. Our government supports film through Creative Saskatchewan’s Feature Film and Television Production Grant Program. Over the last three years alone we have invested $40 million in 69 productions. This helps attract projects to locations throughout Saskatchewan and it helps keep the industry growing in our province. Film brings our shared experiences into sharp perspective. It allows us to feel emotion and be inspired. It entertains us, educates us, and has the power to change how we see ourselves and our world. I want to thank the board of directors, festival staff, volunteers and film industry professionals for your commitment to this event, to the sector, and to the spirit of film. I wish you a successful festival in 2025.

THE HONOURABLE DAVID CHAN

MLA, City of Yorkton

Welcome to the 2025 Yorkton Film Festival! As MLA for the Yorkton Constituency, it is my pleasure to extend warm greetings to all filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts attending this year’s event. For 78 years, the Yorkton Film Festival has been a valued part of our community, providing an opportunity to showcase creativity, highlight new perspectives, and bring together those with a shared passion for storytelling. This festival does an incredible job of drawing talented filmmakers and dedicated audiences and bringing a strong focus to Canadian talent and Canadian content. I want to commend the organizers, volunteers, and supporters for their hard work in making this event a success. Whether you’re here to screen your latest project, discover new films, or engage with fellow creatives, I hope you have an inspiring and memorable experience. Best wishes for an enjoyable festival!

MRS. CATHAY WAGANTALL

Member of Parliament, Yorkton-Melville

Welcome to the 2025 Yorkton Film Festival! As the Member of Parliament for YorktonMelville, I am proud to celebrate Canada’s longest-running film festival, a cornerstone of our cultural landscape. This festival not only showcases incredible Canadian talent but also unites our community in a shared appreciation for the power of storytelling. The creativity and passion displayed in these films are a testament to the dedication of the artists who bring them to life. It is through festivals like this that we strengthen our cultural identity and inspire future generations of filmmakers. Congratulations to the organizers, volunteers, and participants who have worked tirelessly to make this event a success. May this year’s festival be filled with unforgettable stories, meaningful connections, and inspiration for all who attend. Enjoy the screenings and all that this amazing event has to offer!

HIS

WORSHIP AARON KIENLE Mayor of Yorkton

Welcome to Yorkton! On behalf of the City of Yorkton and City Council, I am thrilled to welcome you to the Yorkton Film Festival(YFF), North America’s longest running film festival. For over seven decades, this festival has celebrated the art of storytelling, bringing together talented filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts from across the country. We extend our deepest gratitude to the YFF Board of Directors, sponsors, and the many volunteers whose dedication and hard work make this incredible event possible year after year. Your commitment ensures that Yorkton remains a hub for film, culture, and creativity. While you're here, we encourage you to explore all that Yorkton has to offer - shop at our local businesses, experience our vibrant arts and culture scene, and enjoy the warm hospitality of our community. Thank you for being part of this year’s festival. We hope you have an inspiring and memorable time in Yorkton!

MS. SUZANNE GUÈVREMONT

Government Film Commissioner & Chairperson, National Film Board of Canada

Thanks to the dedication of organizers and the enthusiastic support of generations of festival-goers, the Yorkton Film Festival is a unique showcase for the cinematic arts, here in the heart of the Prairies. I’m proud that the National Film Board of Canada has been a part of your great story from the very beginning. Today, we’re working hard to ensure that the NFB remains engaged with people throughout Saskatchewan and across the country. I’m also delighted to announce that the NFB will once again be presenting the Kathleen Shannon Award to an independently made documentary film that gives a voice to underrepresented groups. Congratulations to all of you who have made the Festival such a special event, each and every year.

JULIE ROY

Executive Director & CEO, Telefilm Canada

Telefilm Canada is proud to promote and celebrate stories that reflect the diversity of voices and communities of our country. That is why we are happy to partner with the Yorkton Film Festival! Investing in films and reinforcing the importance of cinema is at the center of our mission. We do this at every stage of a film production’s lifecycle: from pre-development to distribution and promotion. Festivals play an invaluable role in boosting the visibility of Canadian and Indigenous films while providing opportunities for networking, collaboration and the formation of new partnerships. Thank you to the Yorkton Film Festival for creating this space where creators can meet, connect and inspire each other. These moments are an engine of growth for our industry.

MR. IAN REA Chair, SK Arts

SK Arts is pleased to continue its unwavering support of the Yorkton Film Festival as a pillar in Canadian film celebration, mentorship and outreach history. The festival is integral to Canadian cinema and film development, awarding thoroughly deserving artists and providing a platform to celebrate the best short films in East Central Saskatchewan each spring for decades. SK Arts and Saskatchewan thanks the YFF team for their hard work and dedication to this annual triumph. SK Arts remains steadfast in our mission to support filmmakers and other artists through our partnership with SaskCulture with funding from Sask Lotteries.

MESSAGES

YVONNE HOTZAK Chair, SaskCulture

SaskCulture Inc. congratulates the Yorkton Film Festival on 78 years of celebrating excellence in Canadian short films. The YFF and the Golden Sheaf Awards have been an integral part of the community by bringing people together in a forum for creative discussion and the celebration of short film during the festival weekend and at yearround events and screenings. The YFF showcases the best in storytelling through film, and offers industry expertise, networking, and opportunities for creative and cultural inspiration and growth. I’d also like to acknowledge the contribution of the Sask Lotteries. Sask Lotteries is the main fundraiser for sport, culture and recreation in the province and is instrumental to ensuring that cultural activity - ranging from galleries and museums to cultural forums, languages, multicultural festivals and more - fosters the growth of inclusive and engaged communities, individual well-being, and overall quality of life throughout the province. SaskCulture is in a very privileged position as the manager for the Culture Section of the Sask Lotteries Trust Fund. By purchasing lottery tickets, your money goes back to support many different cultural activities taking place in Saskatchewan communities each year. SaskCulture congratulates all nominees and welcomes all festival participants to Yorkton Thanks to the staff, the many volunteers, and the people of Yorkton, for their dedication to North America’s longest-running film festival.

MS. VAL CREIGHTON President, Canada Media Fund

The Canada Media Fund (CMF) is thrilled to partner with the Yorkton Film Festival once again—our 13th consecutive year! It’s an honour to be part of this incredible 78year legacy for North America’s longest-running film festival, and one of my personal favourites. A huge thank you to everyone who puts in the time and effort to create opportunities right here in Saskatchewan where Canadian creators can share their work, and audiences can experience these amazing stories. I can’t wait to take part in the 2025 edition and celebrate the outstanding talent that makes Canadian storytelling some of the best in the world! Enjoy the festival!

THE GOLDEN SHEAF AWARD

The original award given out by the Yorkton Film Council was a people’s choice certificate of merit voted on by the audience. In 1956, one of the first adjudicators, Frank Moriss of the Winnipeg Free Press, suggested that Yorkton should have a grand prize. The wheat fields surrounding Yorkton inspired the idea for “The Golden Sheaf“ award. Unanimously approved, the Winnipeg Brass Company designed and produced the first award. Made of metal, the first statues looked like a bouquet of wheat. An engraved metal plaque was used in the 1960s, with a new statue introduced in the 1970s. Jim Trinder of Yorkton designed the bronze sheaf we know today – a symbol of the Yorkton Film Festival and excellence in Canadian Short Film.

MS. ERIN DEAN CEO, Creative Saskatchewan

As the official film commission for the province, Creative Saskatchewan is thrilled to continue our partnership with the Yorkton Film Festival. The film industry remains a vital part of Saskatchewan’s economic landscape, driving job creation, skill development, and local investment. Our talented crew is getting stronger every day, thanks to increased collaboration within the film industry and our provincial partners. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Yorkton Film Festival for its unwavering commitment to showcasing the incredible talent of our local producers. We look forward to another year of outstanding films and well-deserved recognition.

RON IRVINE & JOANNE MCDONALD Co-Chairs, Yorkton Film Festival of Canada

Welcome to the 78th Yorkton Film Festival! On behalf of the Yorkton Film Festival, we are delighted to welcome you to this year’s celebration of storytelling, creativity, and cinematic excellence. For 78 years, our festival has been a platform for filmmakers to share their unique visions, and we are proud to continue that tradition. Over the coming days, we invite you to immerse yourself in a rich program of screenings, insightful discussions, and special events. From thought-provoking films to engaging industry panels, our festival is designed to inspire, entertain, and connect storytellers and audiences alike. Of course, no festival would be complete without our prestigious Golden Sheaf Awards, where we come together to honour the incredible talent of all our nominees and winners! This festival would not be possible without the dedication and generosity of our sponsors, partners, and volunteers. Your support helps bring this event to life, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to the arts and the film community.Whether you are a filmmaker, industry professional, or film enthusiast, we thank you for being part of the 78th Yorkton Film Festival. Enjoy the films, the conversations, and the celebration!

RANDY GOULDEN

Executive Director, Yorkton Film Festival

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Yorkton Film Festival. Established in 1947, and North America’s longest running film festival, YFF is proud to continue the tradition established by our founders. A festival like ours does not continue for 78 years without the passion and dedication of everyone involved. A monumental thank you to our board members, programming committee, jury committee, jury members and volunteers for all the work you do to make our festival a success. We cannot thank you enough for all that you do to keep us going as North America’s longest running film festival. We salute everyone for the perseverance in continuing the tradition. I’d also like to extend my sincerest thanks to all our festival partners; from the local, provincial to the national, we are fortunate to have many businesses and organizations who contribute to the success of our festival. Whether they exist within the film industry, or whether they’re supportive of the industry, many have stepped forward and helped us celebrate the best in Canadian short film. And last, and importantly, thank you to all the filmmakers who have submitted films to this year’s festival. Our congratulations to all the nominees and recipients of the 2025 Golden Sheaf Awards. Thank you for joining us and here’s to 78 more years of great Canadian short film!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Top row, from left to right: Steve Allen, Kelly Herron, Ron Irvine (Co-Chair) and Ursula Lawson

Second row, from left to right: Dana Lesiuk, Shelley MacDougall, Joanne McDonald (Co-Chair) and Bob Maloney

Third row, from left to right: Randy Shumay, Leslea Mair and Jim Krysko

FESTIVAL STAFF

Executive Director

Festival Coordinator Randy Goulden Taynika Walker

HONOURARY PATRONS

Festival Ambassador, the late Alan Bailey

Her Honour, Madam Justice Nancy Morrison

Founding Member, the late Ruth Shaw

IN MEMORIAM

GERALD SPERLING

A professor and producer. Gerald produced. Silent Bombs –All For the Motherland won five Golden Sheaf Awards in 2010, Best of Festival, Ruth Shaw Best of Saskatchewan, Best Director Non-Fiction, Best Research and Doc Social/Political. Gerald was known for his quick wit, humour and commitment to a just society.

STEPHEN ONDA

Stephen began a career in film/tv production in the 1980s and over the next 3 decades was active in building the Saskatchewan film industry. This included being an early President of the SMPIA Board after it began in 1986. He will be remembered by many in the province and beyond, as one who gave opportunities to those who wanted to build a career in the film industry.

FILMS

(UN)SEELIEFAE

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Experimental

00:05:35

D: Jay Mendoza

P: Jay Mendoza

Experimental short film that entails a story of Dahlia, a young fae awakening from their nightmares as they dream about an evil fae that is out to steal their pearls.

10 YEARS LATER

Student Productions

00:13:17

D: David Crocpsy Li

P: David Crocpsy Li, Lucas Cai

Bob and Jimmy, upon their promised reunion 10 years after graduating from the university, realize their lives have come to two completely different paths.

30 YEARS AFTER

Documentary Social/Political

00:57:35

D: Liane Simard, Sarah Lajoie Asselin

P: Les productions Liane Simard

30 years after the Zapatista struggle, these indigenous communities of Chiapas are still resisting oppression. How do the children of those who led this struggle still manage to be autonomous and thus take charge of their health, their religion, their education, their diet and to govern for themselves?

7TH GEN – CURTIS HOWSON

Documentary History & Biography

AC: Indigenous

00:22:00

D: Dinae Robinson

P: Dinae Robinson, Rebecca Gibson, Lisa Meeches, Kyle Irving

7TH GEN celebrates young Indigenous leaders from across the country who are honouring their culture and making a tremendous impact despite the obstacles they’ve faced. Métis and Ojibwe actor and sports memorabilia business owner Curtis Howson is about to star in the biggest film of his career.

A BUNCH OF TIMES

Student Productions

00:10:14

D: Tavis Putnam

P: Tavis Putnam

Discomfort abounds when a middle-aged stepfather attempts to connect with his teenage stepson the only way he knows how: with sexuallycharged humour.

A CLOUD HOLDING A KNIFE

Student Productions

AC: Experimental

00:08:54

D: Julian Iliev

P: Julian Iliev

A young blind adult is having a hard time sustaining a relationship because all his girlfriends die.

A COCONUT AS A WEAPON

Student Productions

AC: Multicultural

00:27:08

D: Christopher Johnstone

P: Christopher Johnstone

Using his mother's childhood story as a guide, the filmmaker documents his trip back to the coconut estate in Trinidad where his great-grandfathered was Indentured. A playful identity film about second generation Canadians who don't know how to crack coconuts.

A CONNECTION TO MEMORY

Student Productions

00:08:06

D: Bryce Brtaushesky

P: Bryce Brtaushesky

A young filmmaker looks back on his past by documenting his childhood home.

A DESIGN

Short Subject – Fiction

00:12:54

D: Michael Hwang

P: Michael Hwang, Renjie Li

Nathan, a brilliant but unemployed architect, infiltrates a corporate giant to delete his stolen building design from their database with the help of his enigmatic girlfriend, Julia.

A FINAL SKETCH

Documentary Arts/Culture

AC: Multicultural

00:21:30

D: Don Millar

P: Cole Northey

At a time of global troubles, the passing of a great artist brings people together. In death, Fernando Botero causes a global sensation and touches the heart of his Colombian homeland.

A HOME TO CALL MY OWN

Community Television Productions

00:27:50

D: Mary Lee Booth

P: Mary Lee Booth, Eric Steiner

A Home to Call My Own invites the viewer into the lives of two lived-experience individuals and addresses some of the common myths associated with the homelessness situation in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

A HOWLERS RUGBY EXPERIENCE

Short Subject – Non-Fiction

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:22:53

D: Donald A List

P: Karl Fix

We came to play rugby, but the social-political environment made it nearly impossible to play the game we love.

A LONG WAY TO BE WITH YOU

Documentary POV (Point of View)

AC: Emerging Filmmaker, Multicultural

00:25:48

D: Noa Im

P: Craig Urquhart

It’s been three years since Yona and her son Jeffrey started life in Canada. Yona’s escape from North Korea led to a heart-wrenching decision: leaving her half-Chinese son behind in China while she sought refuge in South Korea.

A MATTER OF WILLPOWER

Student Productions

00:15:21 00

D: Roxana Baloiu

P: Roxana Baloiu

Maddy facing a sea of doctors and appointments struggles to keep her size under control. Her safe space: THE DANCE FLOOR, where she can protect herself from the reality of the outside world and move freely to escape judgment in the shadows of the night.

A WITCH NAMED AGATHA

Children’s/Youth Productions

AC: Multicultural

00:10:09

D: Rebeka Herron

P: Rebeka Herron

Agatha is a mixed race witch, who is struggling to learn her magical powers.

ABRACADAVERS: SEASON 3

Series 00:37:54

D: Morgan Ermter

P: Griffin Cork, Jesse Lipscombe, Morgan Ermter

At some point everyone starts to wonder what they're going to do with their life, even superheroes.

ADRIAN SUTHERLAND – PRECIOUS

Performing Arts & Entertainment

AC: Indigenous 00:03:52

D: Jorge Requena Ramos

P: RoseAnna Schick

Precious was inspired by soulful Black music that came out of the south. It comes from a place of being oppressed – something that Indigenous Peoples and People of Colour understand all too well. It's an ode to the age-old fight for freedoms and rights that is happening all over the world.

FILMS

AHKAMEYIMOK “TO PERSEVERE”

Documentary Arts/Culture

AC: Multicultural

00:39:01

D: Vernon Boldick, Jenna Drover

P: Vernon Boldick

Ahkameyimok: To Persevere explores the lasting impacts of colonization and highlights the transformative work of Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society, an urban Indigenous non-profit in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through the stories of Ashley, Mike, and Joanne, the film shows how Bent Arrow connects people to culture and community.

AM I THE SKINNIEST PERSON YOU’VE EVER SEEN?*

Documentary Social/Political

AC: Multicultural

00:22:08

D: Eisha Marjara

P: Ariel Nasr (National Film Board of Canada), Joe Balass (Compass Productions),

“Hey, let’s go on a diet together.” As kids in a small Quebec town, Eisha and Seema were more than sisters, they were soul mates, and a joint diet offered a shared sense of purpose. But their carefree project would take a dark turn, pushing Eisha to the very brink of death.

* Trigger Warning: Anorexia, disordered eating

AMBITION IS A DRUG

Documentary Arts/Culture

AC: Experimental, Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:36:55

D: Benjamin Joseph Zieger

P: Benjamin Joseph Zieger

B.J. Zieger shares life experiences and hardships and by following his heart and learning to become a tattoo artist and traveling around the world he has found himself and hopes that he can influence others to reach their full potential.

AMI – OUR COMMUNITY –SCOPE SOCIETY

Mental Health

00:21:58

D: Brent Kawchuk

P: Brent Kawchuk

Our Community highlights the people, places, organizations or things that have made life more enjoyable for Canadians with a disability. In this episode, meet three couples, recently married or perhaps about to be, who all met through Calgary SCOPE Society, an organization that provides services for individuals with disabilities.

AN IMPRESSION OF EVERYTHING

Short Subject – Non-Fiction

AC: Experimental

00:05:22

D: Millefiore Clarkes

A brief impression of everything. An attempt to glimpse oneness, in the face of escalating world division and disassociation. A lyrical film culled from footage accumulated over more than a decade of productions, old family archives, and stock sources.

ANCHOR

Student Productions

00:14:21

D: Gilbert Onggara

P: Conor Madill, Gilbert Onggara

Kelly and Sean, both working parents, are forced to reexamine their relationship and priorities when a furniture tip-over accident hospitalized their three-year-old son.

ANOTHER DAY'S PAST

Community Television Productions

AC: Emerging Filmmaker, Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:53:43

D: Matthew Hood

P: Matthew Hood

Amid the rising threat of Hitler, a courageous group from Saskatchewan answered the call to arms. Their remarkable stories highlight the resilience required to combat oppression across land, sea, and sky.

APOCALYPSE BOOK CLUB

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Emerging Filmmaker

00:11:21

D: Anthony Goertz

P: Anthony Goertz

Inspired by Charlotte Cranston's short story of the same name, Apocalypse Book Club is a raw yet lighthearted romantic comedy that follows the unlikely friendship between Raymond, an unemployed accountant, and Evelyn, a socialite recovering from a broken leg.

ART BORN OF SILICON

Short Subject – Non-Fiction

00:19:58

D: Paul Barasa

P: Paul Barasa

A digital illustrator explores the impact of generative AI on their profession while a musician, filmmaker, and actor are tested to see if they can distinguish an authentic artwork from “AI art”.

ASHES AND GRACE

Student Productions

00:12:28

D: Mac Pettit

P: Manan Choudhry

Peter returns home from university to say goodbye to his dying mother.

ATB CAPITAL MARKETS AND BUSINESS

Best Commercial

00:00:30

D: Jeremy Drummond

P: Brent Kawchuk

This dynamic spot encourages viewers to expand their thinking, showcasing the vast potential that lies ahead. With stunning FPV drone footage capturing the sweeping landscapes of Alberta, each scene flows seamlessly into the next, symbolizing the smooth support and guidance that ATB Capital Markets and Business provide.

AUNT HARRIET

Mental Health

AC: Multicultural

00:08:00

D: HAUI™

P: Public Domain Theatre

Aunt Harriet Miller, a singer from Wellington County, spent her final years at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Guelph, where she passed away in 1932, having lost her memory and family.

BACK TO STE. MADELEINE

Student Productions

00:09:41

D: Jack Belhumeur

P: Wapikoni mobile

Jack Belhumeur invites the viewers on a ride along as he travels with his father and son to the site of their ancestral community. Jack tells the dark history but paints a brighter narrative of a resilient and strong people with strong roots.

BALLS, BRAINS, & A WALLET

Documentary History & Biography

00:35:33

D: Tara Mewis

P: North Saskatoon Business Association, Honey Cut Studios

A raw insider look at the personal and professional life of Saskatchewan born entrepreneur W. Brett Wilson.

BATHTUB, BIRDS AND CHOPIN

Animation

AC: Experimental

00:13:21

D: Joe Chang

P: Joe Chang

This experimental animated short film expresses a brief wisp of a woman's thoughts in a bathtub, which through Chopin's piano melody becomes a soulful message of intercommunication between mankind and nature.

BC CANCER – WE'RE CURING CANCER HERE

Best Commercial

00:01:00

D: Derek Baxter

P: Alisha Mills

“We’re not curing cancer here” is a phrase often used to downplay everyday tasks. This powerful recruitment ad opens with lighthearted scenarios where people are trying a little too hard, only to be met with that familiar response. But at BC Cancer, the stakes are real.

BC CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL –MUST LOVE KIDS

Best Commercial

00:01:00

D: Derek Baxter

P: Alisha Mills

A day at BC Children’s Hospital is filled with moments big and small. This dynamic recruitment ad brings those moments to life with single words and phrases that reflect the highs and lows of working in pediatric care.

BC MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Best Commercial

00:00:30

D: Derek Baxter

P: Alisha Mills

This inspiring recruitment spot connects the core values of our viewers to those of BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services. Through powerful visuals showcasing both the challenges and triumphs of patients, we highlight the impact of care, understanding, and dedication.

BEHIND THE MENU: RAILWAY AVE. PUB

Community Television Productions

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:27:53

D: Stuart Merson-Davies

P: Stuart Merson-Davies

After returning to her hometown in Hudson Bay, SK. Nadine Zurba partnered up with her brother, Mitch, and together they opened The Railway Ave. Pub.

BELIEVE

Documentary History & Biography

00:52:00

D: Daniel Oron

P: Daniel Oron, Natasha Ryan

BELIEVE is a 5-part documentary series that explores the people and history behind the world’s largest and most influential religions. The series delves into the rich tapestry of traditions, rituals, and customs and paints an understanding of how believers across the globe live their lives.

BELONG WHERE YOU FIND YOURSELF

Documentary Arts/Culture

AC: Emerging Filmmaker, Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:51:45

D: Adrienne 'Sunny' Adams

Belong Where You Find Yourself was a multi-year, community-engaged project, that supported artists living with dementia and their care partners. This film documents and showcases art work created over the course of the project, while sharing experiences and personal stories from those involved.

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER

Short Subject – Non-Fiction

AC: Emerging Filmmaker

00:01:00

D: Ande Brown

P: Ande Brown

Better Late Than Never provides a small glimpse into Ande’s transition as a mature trans man. The images symbolize the frustration of numerous forms required to update identification documents, medical and physical challenges to overcome, to finally revealing that age is irrelevant to becoming ourselves.

BIG BROTHER CANADA

Series

AC: Multicultural

00:44:00

D: Dave Russell

P: Erin Brock, John Brunton, Eric Abboud, Arisa Cox, Chris Carter, Liam Colle, Jennifer Leek, Cory J Bell, Victoria De Filippis, Mark Holland, Lauren McCruaig, Akhila Adige, Nick Vasil, Trevor Hammond

FILMS

Hosted by Arisa Cox, houseguests must live together in a house outfitted with dozens of high-definition cameras and microphones recording their every move, 24 hours a day. Each week, the houseguests will vote someone out of the house. In the end, the last remaining houseguest will receive the grand prize.

BIG SMALL TOWN

Community Television Productions

00:31:28

D: Taylor Brown

P: Meg Robinson, Laina Brown, Taylor Brown

Big Small Town is a absurdly funny sketch comedy show, based in small town Manitoba – each short sketch is filled with highly produced off-the-wall humour featuring the best of prairie comedians.

BLACK THUNDER – EMBRACE THE BASILISK

Performing Arts & Entertainment

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:08:05

D: Robert White

P: Robert White

In a futuristic world where AI has been outlawed a team of tech bounty hunters search for the ultimate prize.

BLUE TANGO

Documentary Social/Political

00:11:46

D: Marion Chuniaud-Lacau

P: Laurence Ly, Marion Chuniaud-Lacau, Azalia Kaviani

Born mute, Azalia has made her body her language. Her desire to express herself has never been repressed by the limits imposed by the world around her. The young woman frees herself, thanks to her art, from the social, physical and psychological frameworks linked to the cerebral palsy from which she suffers.

BODIES FOR RENT

Documentary Social/Political

00:44:08

D: Habiba Nosheen

P: Amar Lohana, Stuart Henderson, Rob Cribb, Kelly Bennett

Bodies for Rent takes us inside the hidden world of pharmaceutical drug testing. Before a drug can be sold on the market, it has to be tested for safety on healthy people. Until the 1970s, pharmaceutical researchers in Canada and the United States conducted drug trials on inmates in prison.

BOUTIQUE

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Multicultural

00:20:40

D: Brishkay Ahmed

P: Bonnie Do

On the night of the Taliban's arrival in Kabul a young woman makes decisions on how to survive her fragile future.

BRAINSTORM: UNRAVELING THE MYSTERIES OF THE BRAIN

Documentary Science/Nature/Technology

00:42:22

D: Jenna Elaine Bailey

In a captivating tale of friendship, ambition, and groundbreaking discovery, Brainstorm: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Brain chronicles the extraordinary journey of two lifelong friends, Drs. Ian Whishaw and Bryan Kolb, who transformed the world of neuroscience from the small town of Lethbridge, Alberta.

BREADHEAD!

Student Productions

00:14:00

D: Graydon Eskowich

A surreal/cereal comedy about the most important meal of the day! Regina, Canada, 1958. Unable to decide what to eat on the morning of a job interview, a young woman is offered the chance to try a revolutionary new breakfast food by an eccentric television show host.

FILMS

BROTHERLY

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Multicultural

00:08:43

D: Gavin Seal

P: Gavin Seal, Jen Viens

A deeply personal film inspired by true events, Brotherly follows two brothers grappling with mental illness and the complexities of euthanasia. When one brother makes a life-altering decision, the other must confront his own beliefs and navigate the emotional turmoil of their shared journey.

BY HOOK OR BY COOK – THE PERFECT ENDING

Documentary Series

00:44:00

D: Pamela Tomlinson

P: Pamela Tomlinson

After years of searching for the identity he felt lost after his accident, Bruce Cook realizes it was within him all along. Through his remarkable friendship with Bella the Brave, a Saskatchewan star whose courage and spirit inspire all who meet her, Bruce is reminded that life is short—and true joy comes from the meaningful connections we make along the way.

CANADA'S ULTIMATE CHALLENGE

Series

AC: Multicultural

00:47:12

D: Harbinder Singh

P: Erin Brock, John Brunton, Phil Gurin, Mark Lysakowski, Jeff Thrasher, Robyn Bigue, Chris Carter, Liam Colle, Ken Katibak, Lauren McCuaig, Catherine Petersen, Jesse Storey, Rose Marra

Canada returns as a giant obstacle course in this competition reality series hosted by Brandon Gonez.

CEMENT

Student Productions

00:12:00

D: Lucile Parry-Canet

P: Evgeny Patvakanov

Cement is the painful birth of a humanoid

creature confronted with the essence of its natural state and its artificial environment. Alone in an abandoned concrete building, the creature finds itself captured in this labyrinth. Will the being lose itself or will it go beyond the walls?

CHRISTOPHER & THE BUG

Animation

00:12:07

D: Vanessa Lynn Esteves

P: Lydia Ferreira

A grouchy old owl learns a big lesson about friendship when a small bug moves into his house.

CLEM

Short Subject – Fiction

00:10:40

D: John Barnard

P: Sydney Sabiston

Hannah's in trouble and a stranger's help may be the only solution.

CLEMENTINE

Short Subject – Fiction

00:13:40

D: Beth Evans

P: Beth Evans, Allie Dunbar

The discovery of a rogue white pubic hair serves as an unconventional wakeup call for Clementine as she finally gains the courage to seek support for a lifelong battle with bulimia. But when her recovery quest takes an unfortunate turn, Clem and her trusty sidekick are left to fend for themselves.

CONTRACT TO KILL

Documentary Social/Political

AC: Multicultural

00:43:26

D: Ronna Syed

An indictment by U.S. prosecutors bolstered Justin Trudeau’s claim that the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada was carried out by the Indian government. The Fifth Estate’s Bob McKeown speaks to other alleged targets and reveals exclusive video.

CORPUS AND THE WANDERING

Animation

AC: Experimental

00:07:13

D: Jo Roy

P: Jeremy Mendes (National Film Board of Canada)

One dancer, one body, one phone. In a time of collective alienation and technological mass control, one woman rediscovers her soul and reclaims her mind.

CROW

Short Subject – Fiction

00:13:47

D: Morgan Ermter

P: Vicki Chau, Griffin Cork

A student named Crow, with an innate fascination for crows, has to choose between her love of the birds and potential ridicule from peers.

CRUSH THE RESISTANCE

Best Commercial

AC: Best Saskatchewan Commercial 00:00:30

D: Nathan Grayston

P: Nathan Grayston

Herbicide-resistant weeds. The bane of every farmer’s existence. But what if you could destroy weed seeds while you harvest?

Redekop Manufacturing’s Seed Control Unit does just that: mechanically pulverizes weed seeds before they even have a chance.

CRUTCH

Short Subject – Fiction

00:19:22

D: Gayatri Everitt Bajpai

P: Sahil Arya

A young woman in crisis and her supportive boyfriend seek the guidance of an urban shaman for a psychedelic journey, but his methods take a toll on their relationship.

CURSED HISTORIES

Documentary Series

00:52:00

D: Daniel Oron

P: Daniel Oron, Natasha Ryan

From Hollywood's twisted metal to the ocean's unassuming graveyard, these chilling tales weave a history of tragic encounters. James Dean's Porsche, once a symbol of rebellion, screams down a dark highway, leaving a trail of wrecked lives in its wake.

DANCE WITH ME

Community Television Productions

00:22:53

D: Charlotte Engel

P: Stewart Young

Dance With Me explores how the tradition of square dancing on PEI is making a come back.

DISCONNECT

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:08:04

D: Owen Assman

P: Nathan Smit

In the mid-2000s, 11-year-old Ethan records music in his father's home recording studio when the computer suddenly crashes and becomes inoperable. The weight of the situation drags Ethan into a panic, and he desperately hopes to prevent his family from drifting further apart.

DISH WITH MARY SEASON 4

–

EPISODE 1

Series

00:44:00

D: Chris McIvor

P: Libby Lea

In the season premiere, we head to Kamloops, B.C., where the bustling atmosphere of Bright Eye Brewing sets the stage for an exciting culinary adventure with the talented and charismatic Chef Sterling.

FILMS

DON’T LET THE SUN CATCH YOU CRYING

Short Subject – Non-Fiction

00:07:06

D: Natalie Baird, Toby Gillies

P: Alicia Smith

Don’t Let the Sun Catch You Crying is a short animated film narrated by Edith Almadi, an 88-year-old Hungarian Canadian living in a personal-care home in Winnipeg. Through the act of drawing and remembering, Edith connects to her late son in a way that both holds and transcends grief.

DREAMS OF SUNLIGHT THROUGH TREES

Short Subject – Non-Fiction

AC: Experimental

00:15:58

D: Theo Jean Cuthand

P: Theo Jean Cuthand

A middle aged trans man transitions at the age of 44 and observes his changes over a year and nine months, with a looming ongoing news cycle of anti-trans legislation.

DRIER DOWN HERE

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:19:09

D: Christopher Lorenz

P: Joaquin Cardoner, Dylan Rhys Howard

An adolescent boy struggles to balance his own childish desires with the presence of a dark and mysterious figure living in his family's farmyard on the Canadian prairies.

DRIER DOWN HERE

Outstanding Colour Grading – Technical Award

00:05:07

D: Christopher Lorenz

P: Joaquin Cardoner, Dylan Rhys Howard

C: Sam Gilling

The goal of our short is to combine generic elements from suspense and horror with more realistic, “slice of life” elements. It should feel to a viewer as if something terrifying and otherworldly is poking into real life.

DRIVER'S LICENCE

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:24:30

D: Lynette Piper, Karla Weber

P: Lynette Piper, Karla Weber

An elderly man must navigate a major life transition after a series of driving mishaps results in a loss of licence.

DUSTY VINYL

Performing Arts & Entertainment

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:03:17

D: Wolf Willow

P: Wolf Willow

Music video off of Wolf Willow's new album Soul of Slippery Butte explores personal implications of our musical heroes.

DYLAN

Short Subject – Fiction

00:12:04

D: Eamon Hillis

P: Lauren Bell

Dylan tells the story of a teenage saxophonist desperate to escape his troubled home life. Embarking on a journey to Toronto with hopes of finding opportunity in the city's storied jazz scene, he is forced to confront the harsh realities of chasing his dreams.

EASYBAKE

Short Subject – Fiction

00:11:32

D: Sasha Duncan

P: Eloise Cameron-Smith, Dalila Jovanovic

After consuming a clay sculpture, an insecure teen wakes with the ability to sculpt her own body, leading to an obsessive pursuit of “perfection”.

EASYBAKE

Outstanding Colour Grading – Technical Award

00:12:28

D: Sasha Duncan

P: Eloise Cameron-Smith, Dalila Jovanovic

C: So-Young Park

The mood and style of easybake was inspired by Y2K and 80s vibrancy and aggressive

feminism. We referenced Sex Education and intentionally went for a Netflix-style look to echo the warm brightness of these eras, and complimented the fantasy of the film with a glowy look.

EMBARRASSING DAD

Best Commercial

AC: Best Saskatchewan Commercial

00:00:30

D: Stephen Hall

P: Randy Shumay

Embarrassing Dad shows the relationship between a teen daughter and her father, and how SaskTel helps them connect in a meaningful, heartfelt way.

ENTROPIC MEMORY

Animation

AC: Experimental

00:06:28

D: Nicolas Brault

P: Nicolas Brault

This photographic exploration of family photo albums ravaged by water evokes hazy and indistinct memories, poignant witnesses of a fragile past.

EPHEMERA

Short Subject – Fiction

00:13:10

D: Cici Clancy

P: Cici Clancy

Trapped in a digital void of endless porn, a lonely gas station worker discovers salvation in shadflies - creatures born purely to mate, a carnal pleasure she can no longer access.

ÉVASION LUNAIRE

Student Productions

00:18:21

D: Thomas Gautier

Carl, a 21-year-old daydreamer, wants to break free from his social alienation while working as an alien mascot for a pizzeria. His mother, puts a lot of pressure on him about his future career choices. One day, after dreaming of an alien encounter, Carl meets Jenny, a young woman with bohemians ideas.

EVERYTHING WRONG WITH MR. WARD

Student Productions

00:07:35

D: Emmy Pitschner

P: Jack Kukolic

Mr. Ward does not love his life, but he sure does love his dreams. Diagnosed with “terminal everything” and told he only has days left to live, the eccentric mad scientist invents a device to keep him asleep and dreaming for the rest of his life.

EXCALIBUR

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:05:00

D: Jordan Wendzina

P: Jordan Wendzina, Nathan Smit, Katie Ann Lambe, Anthony Buziak

A young boy learns what it means to be the King of Lawns.

EXPERIENCE THE MAE WILSON THEATRE

Best Commercial

AC: Best Saskatchewan Commercial

00:01:00

D: Timothy Lanko

P: Jeremy Ratzlaff, Jared Robinson

A promotional video for Moose Jaw Centre of Arts & Culture, home of the historic Mae WIlson Theatre.

EXPERIENCE THE MAE WILSON THEATRE

Outstanding Colour Grading – Technical Award

00:00:43

D: Timothy Lanko

P: Jeremy Ratzlaff, Jared Robinson

C: Jeremy Ratzlaff

A reel demonstrating the colour grading work on Experience the Mae Wilson Theatre done by Jeremy Ratzlaff.

FCL – EXTRA SERVICE

Best Commercial

AC: Best Saskatchewan Commercial

00:00:30

D: Alex Stevens

P: Angie VanCuren

Life is about the journey, but the right pit stops make all the difference. This uplifting spot

FILMS

follows travelers from all walks of life as they experience the welcoming service, clean facilities, and convenience of Co-Op gas stations.

FCL – FRESH FACILITIES

Best Commercial

AC: Best Saskatchewan Commercial

00:00:30

D: Jeremy Drummond

P: Adam Kitter

In this playful and satirical spot, we take a humorous look at the all-too-relatable experience of encountering shockingly bad public washrooms – dark, grimy, and downright terrifying. The contrast is clear when we step into a bright, spotless Co-Op washroom, proving that a clean, welcoming facility makes all the difference.

FCL – WHAT IF

Best Commercial

AC: Best Saskatchewan Commercial

00:00:30

D: Alex Stevens

P: Ian Buchko, Angie VanCuren

This engaging animated short explores a series of thought-provoking “what if” questions, each leading to a deeper understanding of how Co-Op supports its members and communities.

FLAT OUT FOOD

Documentary Series

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:22:30

D: Adrian Halter

P: Adrian Halter

In its fourth season, Flat Out Food embarks on another field-to-plate adventure! Host Jenn Sharp continues her journey, searching for the most unique and delicious uses of simple, local ingredients.

FLAT OUT FOOD: FORAGED

Outstanding Colour Grading – Technical Award

00:02:35

D: Adrian Halter

P: Adrian Halter

C: David Tomiak, Elemental Post

The colour grading process for the series began with a clear goal: to enhance the breathtaking natural beauty of Saskatchewan and bring its landscapes to life.

FOODSPIRACY

Documentary Science/Nature/Technology

00:44:08

D: Elizabeth Trojian

P: Elizabeth Trojian

What happens when a handful of companies, with incomes greater than half the world’s countries – and the power to match –control most of the food we eat?

Our fridges and supermarket shelves are brimming with an extraordinary range of processed foods.

FOODSPIRACY

Outstanding Colour Grading – Technical Award

00:01:56

D: Elizabeth Trojian

P: Elizabeth Trojian

C: Junyeong Kim

The goal was to create a consistent and immersive visual style while supporting the mood and atmosphere of each scene.

FOREVER AND A DAY

Student Productions

00:10:31

D: Cameron Heo

P: Sarah Buchanan

The office Christmas party, a cursory tradition, begins each year with a group photo to commemorate the annual cycle of small talk and cigarette breaks before the perennial loop repeats itself again. Elsie is an outcast at her workplace, and she'll do anything to fit in.

FILMS

FORGIVENESS IN F MINOR

Short Subject – Fiction

00:17:28

D: Doug Sroka

P: Chad Tailor

Austin MacIntosh grew up in a loving, conservative, christian home with his younger brother Josh, mother Laura, and father Marc whom he shared a love of music with. Austin had a strong bond with his father who taught him piano from a young age. At the age of 16 Austin came out as gay to the one man he looked up to, his father.

FRANCINE

Short Subject – Fiction

00:13:45

D: Jordan Johnsen

P: Jordan Johnsen, Zach Meikle

Two detectives search the futuristic streets of New Alexandria for a missing synthetic girl named Francine and her human nanny Cassandra.

GHOST HUNTERS OF THE GRAND RIVER – SEASON 2

Series

AC: Indigenous

00:22:20

D: Peter Esteves, Jon Elliott

P: Vanessa Loewen, Desiree Single

Ghost Hunters of the Grand River follows a group of Six Nations ghost hunters (better known as S.N.I.P.E.) who have dedicated their very existence to gathering evidence from the world of ghost stories, paranormal encounters and the unexplainable.

GLAD YOU'RE OUT

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Experimental

00:15:34

D: Matthew Moir

P: Matthew Moir

Late-blooming Cole enters a chaotic house party where a basement punk show awaits. As he descends, his anxious inner thoughts become reflected through ten characters in their early 20s.

GOING DUTCH

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Emerging Filmmaker, Multicultural

00:06:55

D: Jack Copland

P: Jack Copland

After a heart-wrenching breakup, Theo visits his grandparents in Holland. Seeking solace in the serene seaside dunes, he encounters an enigmatic Dutch woman who beckons him to Amsterdam. As Theo's spirits begin to lift, a startling revelation about his new romantic interest threatens to shatter his newfound hope.

GOING NATIVE SEASON 3

Documentary Series

AC: Indigenous

00:22:00

D: Sam Karney, Andrew Wiens, Kurt Spenrath, Paul Kemp

P: Sam Karney, Paul Kemp, Andrew Wiens, Kurt Spenrath

Celebrated humorist and author Drew Hayden Taylor explores new aspects of Native life, examining stereotypes and traditions while discovering cool new ways Indigenous people shape their culture in the 21st century. In Season 3, Drew goes global.

GOOD NOSE, CBC OTTAWA

CREATOR NETWORK

Documentary POV (Point of View)

00:06:37

D: Nickie Shobeiry

P: Mariam Zohouri, Christine Maki, Anchal Sharma

Nickie Shobeiry explores Persian beauty standards, freedom of expression and the importance of lineage in this piece for CBC Ottawa’s Creator Network.

GUARDIANS OF THE NORTH 2 – EPISODE

203

Documentary Series

AC: Indigenous, Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:22:00

D: Colin McNeil, Christopher Triffo

P: Jeff Stecyk, Dawn Bird, Steve Allen

Guardians of the North is an action-packed documentary series that follows the wildland

Investing in the power of Canadian storytelling and the

creative spirit of the Yorkton Film Festival.

firefighters and emergency response teams working together to protect people, property and resources in one of the wildest, most remote regions of the world: the boreal forest of Northern Canada.

In Season 2, Episode 3, “Battle for Bernard”, crews try to save a fishing lodge and collection of cabins on Bernard Lake and a mysterious wildfire further east forces a thousands residents to flee to safety.

GUARDIANS OF THE NORTH 2 –

EPISODE 204

Documentary Series

AC: Indigenous, Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:22:00

D: Colin McNeil, Christopher Triffo

P: Jeff Stecyk, Christopher Triffo, Dawn Bird

In Season 2, Episode 4, “Smoked In”, crews face dangerous conditions on the massive Wistigo blaze, and an investigation team looks for the cause of a mysterious wildfire that threatened a nearby community.

GYMNASTICS

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Emerging Filmmaker, Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:17:00

D: Nikki Buziak, Leo Fafard

P: Nikki Buziak, Leo Fafard, Ben Schubert

While dealing with a bully, a 9 year old girl has to navigate a slippery situation during a gymnastics routine at the local Rec Centre.

HAIRY LEGS

Animation

00:16:56

D: Andrea Dorfman

P: Liz Cowie (NFB), Rohan Fernando (NFB)

Questioning why she “has to” shave her hairy legs launches one 13-year-old girl on a journey of self-discovery.

HAPPY PLACE

Children’s/Youth Productions

00:04:00

D: Tara Hungerford, Eric Hogan

P: Tracey Mack, Tara Hungerford, Eric Hogan, Kirsten Hurd

Welcome to Happy Place, a charming town where an adorable muddle of guinea pigs live, laugh and learn together. In each episode the guinea pigs practice manners, share wisdom and find out what it means to be a good friend.

HEALING HEARTS

Short Subject – Non-Fiction

00:14:30

D: Amy Belling

P: Matt Smiley, Cassidy Shuvera, Amy Belling

Healing Hearts tells the story of Nicole Redvers, a Deninu K’ue First Nation, Associate Professor and AIWF Co-Founder, along with two Elders Council co-leads, who created the Arctic Indigenous Wellness Foundation in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories in Canada.

HENDERSON

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Emerging Filmmaker

00:11:06

D: Lori Watt

P: Lori Watt, Major, Lisa Gemino, Jennifer Koening

A weekend holiday in Vegas turns sour for Ally when she wakes up in a hotel room in Henderson with no recollection of how she got there. With no phone, no memory and not a familiar face in sight, will she make it back in time for her friend's wedding?

HIGHWAY

ROBBERY: THE REGINA

BYPASS SCANDAL

Documentary

Social/Political

AC: Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:59:35

D: Danny Johnston

P: Danny Johnston

In the heart of Saskatchewan, a scandal was brewing that would shake the province to its core. The Regina Bypass, a project meant to improve transportation and safety, became a symbol of corruption and betrayal.

FILMS

I HAVE NO IDEA

Mental Health

00:22:21

D: Jennifer Jellicoe

P: Tara Mewis, AMI - Jennifer Johnson

A comedic and poignant theatrical play about adults with ADHD through the eyes of people who have it, whether they realize that or not.

I NEED TO GET THIS OFF MY CHEST

Children’s/Youth Productions

00:09:45

D: Elizabeth Hicks

P: Jamie Miller

Twelve-year-old Grace is a criminal. After shoplifting lingerie from a discount department store, she goes to great lengths to cover up the crime.

IMMIGRANT KITCHEN

Short Subject – Non-Fiction

AC: Multicultural

00:22:00

D: Jorge Requena Ramos

P: Orlando Braun

International Chef & Comedian Ali Hassan explores immigrant dishes that have become icons and staples in their adopted community in Canada and abroad. The pilot episode features the Lumpia [a Filipino spring roll] that has become the unofficial dish of Winnipeg, Canada.

IMMORTAL EMBRACE

Short Subject – Fiction

AC: Indigenous

00:07:19

D: Reamonn Joshee

P: Monique Barrie, Griffin Cork, Morgan Ermter, Dallas Soonias

Turned into a vampire against her will, 16-year-old Emily must navigate her new reality with the unwavering support of her single mother. Immortal Embrace is a poignant coming-of-age tale that explores identity, family, and the enduring strength of a motherdaughter bond amidst the challenges of the supernatural.

IN OUR HEADS

Student Productions

00:11:00

D: Sarah Hartmann

P: University of Regina

This student documentary explores mental health in young adults through university students, and the importance of understanding the people around us.

IN THE SHALLOWS

Animation

00:04:00

D: Arash Akhgari

P: Jelena Popovic (National Film Board of Canada)

A deep dive into the shallow and fragmented world of news, entertainment and ads, where we can easily drown in the dangerous allure of mass media intoxication.

INISKIM – RETURN OF THE BUFFALO Documentary Arts/Culture

AC: Indigenous

00:39:00

D: Leanne Allison, Pete Balkwill, Amethyst First Rider

P: Leanne Allison, Amethyst First Rider

Iniskim – Return of the Buffalo is an intercultural artistic response to the return of the buffalo, as wild animals, to Western North America.

INKWO FOR WHEN THE STARVING RETURN

Animation

AC: Indigenous

00:18:27

D: Amanda Strong

P: Amanda Strong (Spotted Fawn Productions), Nina Werewka (Spotted Fawn Productions)), Maral Mohammadian (NFB)

Dove, a gender-shifting warrior, uses their Indigenous medicine (Inkwo) to protect their community from an unburied swarm of terrifying creatures.

INTERPRETING ERIK

Documentary History & Biography

AC: Emerging Filmmaker

00:57:37

D: Donald D'Haene

P: Donald D'Haene

How the loss of one family's displaced brother [in Vancouver, BC] taught them not to see homeless people as just the end result; they were once beautiful, talented, creative and loved; they were us. Human. Erik was not nothing; he was everything.

IT MEANS NEW

Student Productions

AC: Multicultural

00:15:46

D: Ian Nieto

P: Jathusa Kanagarajah

It Means New tells the story of Morgan, a nineteen-year-old, assigned male at birth, queer, college student. In addition to recently moving out of their family home and getting accustomed to the college lifestyle, they’ve been struggling with their own gender identity, and have come to the realization that they identify as non-binary.

JOHN'S FIRST TATTOO

Student Productions

AC: Experimental, Ruth Shaw – Best of Saskatchewan

00:09:59

D: Jett Kowalchuk

John adjourns from his mundane life in order to get his first tattoo. His walk-in takes a turn when the parlour he visits promises more than just ink on skin.

JUDITH JACQUIE GRACE

Documentary POV (Point of View)

AC: Multicultural

00:37:44

D: C Hudson Hwang, Amy Belling

P: C Hudson Hwang

Three women recount their experiences with menopause against a backdrop that hints at the history of misogyny that silenced its discourse, yet is about to face a dramatic turning point in medicine.

JUDITH JACQUIE GRACE

Outstanding Colour Grading – Technical Award

00:00:54

D: C Hudson Hwang, Amy Belling

P: C Hudson Hwang

C: Jun Kim

Enhancing depth, warmth and filmic qualities, the colour team help to elevate the genre of documentary into a truly cinematic experience, while synergistically contributing to symbolism, mood and tone.

KILLING HITLER

Outstanding Colour Grading – Technical Award

00:01:20

D: Stan Griffin

P: David Pounds, Jeff Stecyk, Steve Allen, Christopher Triffo

C: Jack Tunnicliffe, Randy Shumay

The colour grading plan for any production –commercial, television series, documentary, or theatrical film – is born out of mood. This mood helps convey the story to the viewer in the best possible way.

LAST DAY

Student Productions

00:11:00

D: James Joseph Valiyakulathil

P: James Joseph Valiyakulathil

A retiring factory worker, Mark, 70, and his wife, Ann, face an uncertain future when Mark collapses on his retirement day. As they grapple with his inability to work and support themselves, Mark discovers an old pistol in his drawer, prompting a journey of self-reflection and existential questioning.

LAST MANITOBA MEAL

Community Television Productions

00:15:00

D: Jeff Newman

P: Jeff Newman

In Last Manitoba Meal, host, foodie, magician, and aspiring chef Cary Tardi is on a mission to curate and create spectacular personalized meals worthy of being the last meal for some of Manitoba’s most fascinating people!

FILMS

LAVENZA

Student Productions