CUFF.DOCS DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL
The 13th CUFF.Docs Documentary Film Festival will run from November 19 to 23 at the Globe Cinema, hosted by the Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF). CUFF.Docs is dedicated to showcasing the best non-fiction films that spark thought-provoking dialogue, challenge beliefs, and enrich viewers’ perspectives.
“We try to show more transgressive, original, and cutting-edge cinema, and luckily, there is a lot of that in the documentary realm,” said CUFF Lead Programmer Cam Macgowan.
He emphasizes that CUFF does not program with a political agenda in mind; instead, they select films with intriguing subject matter, unique perspectives, or experimental approaches. “We are united in our quest to show original cutting-edge cinema that you might not get the chance to see anywhere else.”
Unlike the Calgary Underground Film Festival earlier in the year, CUFF.Docs focuses exclusively on documentaries.
“When we narrow it down to only documentaries, [and] we get to have really groundbreaking, ripped from the headlines type subject matter, which leads to some great discussions in the lobby following the film as people’s heads are just being filled with new ideas,” said Macgowan. The festival also features many guest filmmakers, providing audiences with the opportunity to learn more about the documentaries directly from their creators.
With a vast selection of films to see this year, Macgowan is eager for this year’s festivities; however, a few stand out to him. One of them is Summer Camp, also titled Camp d’été, directed by Mateo Ybarra.
This documentary follows the Scout Movement, an annual gathering of thousands of teenagers who live together in a makeshift village in Switzerland. At this 14-day camp, teenagers participate in activities that embody Scouting’s principles, like teamwork, physical health, and ethical responsibility. Macgowan describes the film as a scripted Wes Anderson movie. “[It’s] amazingly shot, absolutely beautiful, and has emotional arcs through each of the characters, yet is completely real and filmed at a teen summer camp.”
Another documentary Macgowan thinks should be on people’s radar is Tom Stern’s Butthole Surfers: The Hole Truth And Nothing Butt, a film centring on the subversive noise punk legends. “It is an amazing doc actually made in the style of the music of the band; there is mixed media, archive footage, animation, modern interviews, and a lot of rock and roll going on.”
For documentary lovers, especially those interested in unconventional filmmaking and compelling subject matter, CUFF.Docs is not to be missed. And as a bonus, the CatVideoFest returns with an adorable compilation of the best cat videos from around the world!
Check out the full schedule and grab tickets at calgaryundergroundfilm.org.
CALGARY JUSTICE FILM FESTIVAL
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Calgary Justice Film Festival (CJFF) takes place from November 6 to 8 at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland. The festival kicks off with an opening ceremony featuring a welcome by Elders, traditional dancers, singers, and drummers, along with greetings from representatives of the City of Calgary and the Government of Alberta.
CJFF focuses on documentaries that explore meaningful social issues, aiming to inspire positive change and encourage audience engagement with global challenges.
For a film to be screened at this festival, it must align with one of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development goals, tackling topics such as income and gender inequality, access to healthcare, and climate change.
Following the screenings, audience members can engage with the filmmakers and experts on the subject matter, fostering conversation and a deeper understanding of the issues.
Standout films include Following Harry, directed by Susanne Rostock, which traces American singer and actor Harry Belafonte’s years of activism and his lasting impact on civil liberties. Taking an in-depth look at the life of a figure like Belafonte will undoubtedly be a compelling watch.
Another notable film (if you missed its screening at CIFF) is The Pitch by Michèle Hozer, following Diana Matheson as she works to create Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league. This one is an inspiring story of breaking barriers and motivating future generations.
In addition to films, festival-goers can attend The Peace Market, a pop-up community of non-governmental and volunteer organizations alongside local vendors. The market offers a variety of food, crafts, and information about local social initiatives. Enjoy delicious treats, purchase gifts, or meet others who share a passion for social issues. The market is also open to the public.
As a volunteer-run, non-profit festival, the CJFF is free to attend; however, donations of non-perishable food items for the Calgary Food Bank are encouraged.
More information at justicefilmfestival.ca.
BANFF CENTRE MOUNTAIN FILM AND BOOK FESTIVAL
The 50th anniversary of the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival takes place from November 1 to 9 at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. The program features guest speakers and films from around the world, stories of adventure and exploration, the Festival Marketplace, and the highly anticipated 50th-anniversary edition of the Fire and Ice Symposium.
With over 80 films to choose from, The Finisher: Jasmin Paris And The Barkley Marathons is a must-watch. It chronicles Jasmin Paris’ remarkable achievement at the 2024 Barkley Marathons, where she became the first woman to complete the gruelling race in its 38-year history, telling a powerful story of determination and resilience.
The Fire and Ice Symposium: Stories We Tell, held on November 4 and 5, explores the role of storytelling in fostering positive change amid environmental challenges, such as melting ice and wildfires. The two-day event features thought-provoking presentations from leading speakers, including renowned environmental photographer and filmmaker James Balog.
Whether you’re drawn to groundbreaking expeditions or extraordinary stories told by filmmakers, authors, and adventurers, the festival offers something for every explorer at heart.
For more information and tickets, visit banffcentre.ca.
MORE FILMS TO CATCH
The GRAND Theatre
There’s plenty to enjoy at The GRAND Theatre this November and December, with fun movies and entertaining events.
As part of their November Nights At The GRAND, Edward Scissorhands will be playing on November 2, a perfect watch for those still in the Halloween spirit. Meanwhile, on December 12, as part of their “A Grand Christmas” series, experience the beautifully heartwarming It’s A Wonderful Life on the big screen.
Grab your tickets at thegrandyyc.ca.
GIRAF (Festival Of Independent Animation)
GIRAF returns for its 21st edition, celebrating the world of independent animation from Canada and around the world. Every year, GIRAF screens the most awe-inspiring, mesmerizing, and unique animated films. Ranging from feature-length films to short films, Q&As with filmmakers, and talks + workshops, GIRAF is a must-see.
With the rave reviews online, the charmingly dreamy animation, stunning music, and a stacked voice cast (Sarah Sherman, Cole Escola, and Elsie Fisher, to name a few), Julian Glander’s Boys Go To Jupiter should be on your watchlist.
GIRAF runs from November 13 to 16 at the Globe Cinema. If you can’t attend in person, you can still enjoy the lineup online from November 17 to 23 at giraffest.ca.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland has many upcoming events scheduled for November and December, including workshops, activities, and films. One event you won’t want to miss is the screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation on December 10 at the Burnwest Theatre, which is part of their Cult Classics and Crafts event. This timeless Christmas family comedy is sure to get you in the holiday spirit (and it’s a Scene editorial favourite: the shitter was, indeed, full). People are also encouraged to bring crafting supplies and projects to the screening.
Tickets are at theconfluence.ca.
