The mesmerizing creations of Black filmmakers will shine brightly at the 21st Montreal International Black Film Festival (MIBFF) this week. From September 24 to 28, the festival will present a lineup of 70 films hailing from around 20 countries, including nearly 40 Canadian productions.
Attendees can look forward to a diverse array of screenings, ranging from short films to feature-length works, along with engaging discussions. Some films will also be available for online viewing throughout the event.
Notably, free performances will be held at venues such as the Maison de la culture de Côte-des-Neiges and the Maison d’Haïti, as part of the festival’s mission to make cinema accessible to all.
Fabienne Colas, the festival’s founding president, emphasized that the event is for everyone, catering to both film enthusiasts and casual viewers seeking new experiences and cultural insights without leaving their seats.
Renowned author Dany Laferrière will be honored as the festival’s 2025 Grand Prix Tribute recipient during the opening night. Laferrière’s contributions to literature and film will be celebrated, highlighting his role in adapting novels for the big screen and directing films like “How to Conquer America.”
The festival’s focus on showcasing Black talent extends to the opening film, “Hedda,” directed by Nia DaCosta, featuring a groundbreaking portrayal of a Black woman in a classic role. Additional highlights include the documentary “Yambo Ouologuem, la blessé,” and premieres of films like “Frantz Fanon” by Abdenour Zahzah and “We Want the Funk!” by Stanley Nelson.
Colas stressed the festival’s significance as a platform for unique cinematic experiences, offering a glimpse into stories and perspectives not commonly found in mainstream media.
Moreover, young Black filmmakers will have a platform at the festival, with a spotlight on the series “Being Black in Canada” created by a collective of emerging talents. The event will also feature a pitch session for young screenwriters to present their web series projects to industry producers, promoting diversity on and off the screen.
In addition to screenings, attendees can engage with various activities, including discussions with acclaimed directors and an art showcase at the Théâtre Colas.
