(Pictures: Forest City Film Festival)
The Forest City Film Festival (FCFF) is gearing up for its ninth edition, spotlighting the local talent. Running from Saturday, Oct. 19 to Sunday, Oct. 27, it features about 90 films and a dynamic experience for film lovers, aspiring filmmakers, and industry professionals.
“We want to generate pride in regional audiences for the talent among us. Film is probably the most important art of our time. It allows us to see how other people live and think,” said Dorothy Downs, founder and executive director. “Because we’ve lived so close to a major media hub—Toronto—we can often be overlooked, and our talent can be as well. We wanted to create something where we can truly boast about ourselves.”
A unique twist for the 2024 festival is its opening night, reflecting London’s designation as Canada’s first UNESCO City of Music in 2021. ‘Film festivals usually start with a film, but this is an opening night made for London. We have performances, 13 music videos in competition, and a world premiere by a Juno Award-winning director. It’s going to be an incredible night,’ Dorothy Downs added.
For the first time, FCFF will present a Lifetime Achievement Award, with London-born actor Victor Garber as the inaugural recipient. Known for his roles in Titanic, Legally Blonde, and Godspell. Icons of theater, film, and entertainment, including Eugene Levy, Martin Short, Jane Eastwood, and Paul Schafer, will join a live Zoom conversation. “What an incredible opportunity to see Titanic with one of its stars. Garber played the architect who realized the ship was going to sink,” she explained.
In addition, the event will host the Ontario Screen Creators Conference (OSCC), a must-attend event for filmmakers. “We have 40 experts from Toronto mostly coming and some of the top people in the industry coming to talk about all kinds of different elements,” she added.
Considering the film industry’s increasing growth in the region, 106.9 The X spoke with Broadcasting – Television and Film Production students at Fanshawe College about their thoughts on this event and the opportunities it might provide.
“Film festivals provide a valuable platform for filmmakers like me to connect with others in the industry. Attending a festival feels like stepping into a space where my passion is reflected in those who share my drive and ambition. This festival is another chance to meet individuals with similar aspirations and enthusiasm for storytelling,” said Bijin Binu.
“I discovered the festival last year through a Fanshawe College field placement project. However, I was unaware of this year’s dates. Unlike in Mexico, events like this receive stronger support in Canada, fostering valuable industry networks for future collaborations. I hope to participate, as it would provide valuable experience in financing projects,” said Benjamin García.
“Initiatives like this help establish the city as a film hub, create jobs, and boost the local economy as productions increase each year. It’s exciting to see independent films fostering love for art. However, I find the ticket prices a bit high. I understand this so that everyone involved can be paid fairly; it’s not a cheap event to put on, but I wish it were more accessible. Last year, I assisted with camera operations, shot interview panels, and watched films. The experience was invaluable,” said Adriana Jiménez.
According to the founder, submissions for the Forest City Film Festival open on March 15 and close on July 15. Films can be up to two years old. “Additionally, filmmakers can visit our website and look under the industry tab. They will find information about our 48-hour film festival held in May, which is a great way to meet new people and stretch creativity,” she concluded.
