NORTWESTFEST INTERNATIONAL DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL
MAY 9-15, 2024
Welcome to NorthwestFest 2024! Thank you so much for supporting our filmmakers. We sincerely hope you enjoy the festival!
Questions? Check out this FAQ for some of the most common info/fixes.
MONDAY–WEDNESDAY: MAY 13-15 NWF - Perspective Alberta Screening series
The Wounds Within chronicles Lora's 25-year journey to diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis, highlighting the emotional and physical toll of a disease that affects 1 in 10 women, transgender, and gender-diverse individuals.
Seven Albertan survivors share their experiences of the legal system and what they wish judges, lawyers, and the public knew about domestic abuse.
Join us for a pre-screening reception in the Metro Cinema lobby, followed by a post-screening Panel Discussion.
Perched above empty expanses across northern Canada, Fire Tower “lookouts” all experience the rush of spotting smoke and pre-empting evacuations.
Myrna Kostash: Here explores Myrna’s remarkable writing career firmly rooted in Edmonton.
Preceded by the Short Film: Way of the Shepard
Imagine waking up and suddenly not being able to walk to the bathroom, or losing your vision as you slept. This is Multiple Sclerosis. And this is the life of feisty, first-generation, Polish-Canadian Patrycia Rzechowka.
Send Kelp! follows Frances Ward, a self-professed "Seaweed Nerd," as she starts a kelp farm off the west coast of Canada with help from scientists, wild harvesters, and entrepreneurs.
Alongside Blackfoot Elder Leroy Little Bear, Director Tasha Hubbard explores humanity's deep connection to the buffalo and how the potential of their return to the Great Plains can bring a new era of sustainability.
Thursday - May 9th NWF Opening Night
Getting Out of the Box - 7 mins
Seeds of Change - 27 min
Temple of Love - 18 min
GONE - 37 min
The film highlights a diverse coalition of farmers implementing regenerative agricultural practices to address climate change, improve health, and stabilize the economy.
FRIDAY - May 10th NWF
Sorry/Not Sorry examines the cultural fixation with Louis C.K., his comeback, and the backlash faced by the women who spoke up about his behavior.
Preceded by the Short Film: Au Revoir, Pugs
Amidst technological shifts, declining ticket sales, a quirky bear, and his feline companions, Keith faces overwhelming challenges due to COVID-19 as he struggles to maintain his cinema.
Preceded by the Short Film: When the Gifts Arrive
SATURDAY - May 11th NWF
Kim’s Video nostalgically celebrates the legacy of a beloved New York City video store, before transforming into a mission to safeguard its iconic film archive, which finds an unexpected new home in a Sicilian village.
Preceded by the short Film: Self-portrait of Lee Hollin
A young designer seizes the opportunity to raise awareness about ocean stewardship with the interest generated by his surfboard that he crafted from thousands of littered cigarette butts.
Preceded by the Short Film: Entropy
DOUBLE-FEATURE! I Have a Name follows artist Jon Linton as he embarks on a soul-searching journey to grapple with the harsh realities of addiction and homelessness after losing a friend and colleague. Someone Lives Here sees carpenter Khaleel Seivwright building small life-saving shelters for unhoused people living outside in Toronto.
Rhino Man is the true story of the courageous field rangers who risk their lives every day to protect South Africa's rhinos from being poached to extinction.
As their anxiety-crippled coach fights to keep them motivated, a team of underdog athletes strive to make their mark at the World Championships, driven by their desire to stand out rather than simply fit in.
Preceded by the Short Film: We are Flying Stars
Join us for a complimentary brunch as a panel of local filmmakers discuss the state of Edmonton’s indie filmmaking scene.
SUNDAY - MAY 12th NWF
Invisible Beauty marks the journey of fashion pioneer Bethann Hardison, a trailblazing Black model, modeling agent, and entrepreneur whose influential career has reshaped the boundaries of fashion culture.
Preceded by the short Film: Lisa Jacobs - SHADES
World-champion Brazilian surfer Maya Gabeira defies both death and gender biases in the male-dominated realm of big wave surfing, making history with her remarkable resilience and determination.
Preceded by the Short Film: GATH & K’IYH: Listen to Heal
One day in 1975, 90% of Icelandic women decided to strike from work, household duties, and childcare, ultimately propelling Iceland to become renowned as the "best place in the world to be a woman."
Preceded by the Short Film: I Was Here
Kids Under 12 get in FREE!
Experience the heartwarming journey of a Scottish couple and the wild otter who changes their lives, showcasing the transformative power of nature.
Preceded by the Short Film: The Bee