As we approach this century’s second quarter, what could be more exciting than to see Quebec's cinematographic and television future take shape. Indeed, what one immediately notices from this 26th edition is the emergence of a whole new generation of audacious, committed and creative filmmakers from here, and elsewhere. New talent is appearing over the horizon, and the future of short film is looking good.
In addition to being the first to set eyes on these exciting new films, you’ll be regaled by our sustained and varied selection of carefully curated programs, studded with 165 creations from near on fifty countries around the world.
Of the 66 films in the official competition, 26 are from Quebec with 13 films eligible for the Canadian Grand Prix, along with 13 international newcomers competing for the Grand Prix. There are some 40 world, North American and Canadian premieres, in addition to a some of the year’s must-see films such as Shark, Sideral, Pa Vend and The Girl with a Thermal Gun.
The Parallel Competition is a REGARD team favorite. Not far behind is the new double program 100% Regions and Shoot No Matter What! presented on Friday evening in the main hall, and with the diverse, creative 100% Quebec double program. Americana, a welcome hot blast of air from the south, brings the works of five filmmakers from Peru, Chile, Argentina, Cuba and Colombia to our wintery screens.
The Youth Competition brings together 8 programs adapted for different age groups. More than 8,500 kids, aged 2 to 17 years old, will get to see these films before, during and after the festival.
Le Marché, the REGARD film market, welcomes none other than Stéphane Lafleur to give a masterclass, and present two panels on Indigenous issues and on the writing of a youth film.
We also dive into The World of Samer Najari and Dominique Chila, filmmakers with a 20-year history together, to portray their vision of the world through works full of meaning and poetry. And whatever happens, do not miss the surprising program Focus on Young Chinese Filmmakers! Last but not least, we play around with male stereotypes in a program called Boys and we have a double bill treat with two Genre Film programs. On a slightly more sombre note, a warm tribute has been organized to celebrate the life and works of our dear friend Philippe Belley, a local filmmaker and producer who passed away lately.
The team has worked hard to give you a festival experience of irreproachable quality, enhanced by performances and nods to other films. It’ll be quite unique. But the strength of the festival really lies in the way the community appropriates it. For people new to the festival and hardened veterans alike, REGARD belongs to you. Thank you.