St. John's International Women's Film Festival celebrates 35 years

The 35th annualSt. John's International Women's Film Festivalis happening in downtown St. John'sfrom Oct. 22-26. The CBC asked executive director Jenn Brown to weigh in on this year's festival.

What challenges, if any, are you facing in year 35, and what are you looking forward to most?
"Post-pandemic, we're adapting to shifts in our audience while being mindful of economic realities. It'sheartening to see our long-time patronswho've always trusted us to bring bold, eclectic filmsstill showing up, just as excited as ever.

"At the same time, over 40% of last year's audience were new attendees, bringing fresh energy and new voices. Seeing them engage alongside seasoned regulars has been invigorating and gives us the freedom to keep pushing boundaries and championing indie films."

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"Mindful of financial barriers, we've prioritized making the festival accessible. We're excited to keep this new audience engaged while ensuring our loyal supporters feel at home. I'm most looking forward to the magic when peoplewhether strangers or friendsgather in a theatre to connect over stories on screen. The energy as the credits roll and conversations the films spark is the heart of the festival experience."

Is there one film that has that 'wow factor' or is creating a buzz already, even before the Festival opens?
"Opening with Melanie Oates'Sweet Angel Baby, which sold out in record time, is the perfect way to introduce audiences to our incredible local talent and kick off the festival. We're thrilled to celebrate her work and set a bold tone for the week."

"Closing with Sook-Yin Lee's Paying for It feels equally powerful, and we can't wait to welcome her and her team to St. John's."

"Both films, like many in this year's lineup, dive deep into the complexities of human relationships, pushing boundaries around love, desire, and vulnerability. They're challenging emotional and societal norms, which will no doubt spark big reactions and conversations, making them the perfect choices to bookend our festival."

What films are going to stick with audiences long after the festival is over? That one film people will think about for a long time.
"With an expanded lineup featuring acclaimed directors such as Shuchi Talati, Tamara Segura, Lisa Jackson, Sophie Deraspe, Heather Young, Laurie Townshend, and Josephine Anderson, these powerful feature films have captivated sold-out audiences around the worldbut so have the films in our short programs. You'll experience a dynamic and varied lineup that creates an unforgettable viewing journey. These shorts will resonate with viewers long after the credits roll, whether through deeply personal narratives or unexpected stories of collaboration, love, and connection."

You'll experience a dynamic and varied lineup that creates an unforgettable viewing journey.- Jenn Brown, SJIWFF executive director

And what is the onestand-out thing (could be event, panel, gala, filmmaker) about this year's festival?
"Our Film Industry Forum showcases one of the country's most impressive lineups, bringing together groundbreaking artists, industry leaders, funders, studios, and streamers. We're excited to welcome back Christine Vachon from Killer Films, one of the world's most prolific producers, and to have Netflix joining the festival for the first time."

"A key highlight of the Forum is the Global Summit on Equity in Film, which will unite international changemakers and creative visionaries. At the summit, we will announce that SJIWFF is now the new home of Women In View, along with the soft launch of our Film Equity Institute, the nation's first. This initiative marks a major leap in our commitment to advancing equity and inclusion in the film industry."

WATCH: Coverage from the festival launch

35 years young: St. Johns International Womens Film Festival returns next month

1 month ago

Duration 1:58

There are no shortage of films to take in at the St. Johns International Womens Film Festival, with nine feature-length movies and 29 short films. Newfoundland and Labrador filmmakers can boast that just over 20 per cent of the films belong to them. The CBCs Maddie Ryan attended the unveiling of the 2024 lineup. What'snew at this year's event, if you haven't mentioned it in the above questions?
"To celebrate our 35th anniversary, we're reflecting on the rich history and those who've shaped Newfoundland and Labrador's film industry. A standout new event this year is the introduction of the Trailblazer Awards, which honours five iconic local producersAnnette Clarke, Barbara Doran, Rosemary House, Mary Sexton, and Allison White."

"These incredible women have made an indelible mark on our film landscape, and we can't celebrate them enough. Hosted by the legendary Mary Walsh, the awards recognize their remarkable contributions and aim to inspire the next generation of filmmakers."