Title: National Canadian Film Day Returns April 16: A Global Tribute to Canadian Cinema

National Canadian Film Day (CanFilmDay) makes its return on April 16, 2024, offering a lively tribute to Canadian storytelling through film. Launched in 2014, this yearly occasion has evolved into an international event, linking Canadians with audiences worldwide to the vibrant fabric of Canadian culture and creativity.

This year, CanFilmDay will feature screenings and activities across all 13 provinces and territories, in addition to 43 countries globally. Organizers predict that over 100,000 Canadians will take part in live events, with many more watching via television broadcasts and streaming services.

A Tribute to Canadian Identity Through Film

The celebration is led by REEL Canada, a non-profit organization focused on advancing Canadian cinema. Artistic Director Sharon Corder underscored the significance of cultural storytelling in today’s global environment. “At this moment, our culture is vital and our stories hold great value – more so than ever,” Corder stated. “They reflect who we are, who our neighbors are, and what is important to us.”

Co-directors Jack Blum and Sharon Corder also emphasized the chance for Canadians to embrace their stories. “Stand up for Canada by sitting down—to watch an excellent Canadian film on CanFilmDay,” they expressed to CGM.

Highlights of CanFilmDay 2024

This year’s CanFilmDay features an exciting roster of events and programs tailored to engage audiences of various ages and backgrounds:

– A Town Hall-style event in Toronto showcasing Canadian film legends like Yannick Bisson, Don McKellar, and Mary Walsh, hosted by comedian and broadcaster Ali Hassan.
– A special rendition of the national anthem “O Canada” by Jann Arden, to be aired at every live screening.
– The debut of new Canadian films, including the highly awaited horror-thriller It Feeds.
– Over 50 film festivals nationwide participating in Canadian Film Week, with filmmakers present.
– More than 200 French-language films screened, including nearly 100 in Quebec.
– A focus on Indigenous storytelling, featuring over 70 Indigenous-produced films and 350 high schools engaged in Indigenous Realities live streams.
– International showings of nearly 100 Canadian films across 43 nations.
– Hundreds of Canadian films broadcast on major networks and streaming channels.
– Cineplex and Landmark Cinemas facilitating screenings in over 33 locations across the country.
– Involvement from over 60 filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals, including Deepa Mehta, Colm Feore, Clement Virgo, Patricia Rozema, among others.

Featured Films to Watch

CanFilmDay 2024 presents a carefully curated selection of critically acclaimed and audience-favorite Canadian films. Some highlights include:

– BlackBerry (2023): A dark comedy-drama exploring the rapid rise and subsequent fall of the BlackBerry smartphone.
– Hey, Victor! (2023): A mockumentary directed by and starring Cody Lightning, revisiting his character from the 1998 classic Smoke Signals.
– Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story (2024): A compelling documentary delving into the life of Jackie Shane, a trailblazing Black transgender jazz artist.
– C.R.A.Z.Y. (2005): A coming-of-age drama set in 1960s-70s Quebec, following a young man’s journey to self-acceptance.

Support and Sponsorship

National Canadian Film Day is made possible through the generous contributions of various sponsors and partners, including Telefilm Canada, CBC, Hollywood Suite, Cineplex, Landmark Cinemas, Ontario Arts Council, RBC Foundation, DGC Ontario, Ontario Creates, CMPA, ACTRA, AFBS, and many others.

How to Participate

Whether attending a local screening, participating in a virtual event, or enjoying from home, there are myriad ways to engage. Visit the official CanFilmDay website at www.canfilmday.ca to check out the complete film list, locate events near you, and discover more about celebrating Canadian cinema.

So grab your popcorn, get comfortable, and join the festivities on April 16. National Canadian Film Day is not merely a film marathon—it’s a celebration of the voices, stories, and talents that shape Canada’s cultural landscape.