A remarkable, inspiring story of human resilience, War Witch tells the story of Komona, a 14- year-old girl whose life took a drastic, tragic turn when armed rebels stormed her village. Forced to join the rebel army and endure brutal training, Komona learns to survive, and even falls in love. Although she wishes to forget, the now-pregnant Komona realizes she must reconcile herself with her painful past.
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Peace By Chocolate
Synopsis
When their factory is bombed, a Syrian family flees Damascus and spends three years living as refugees. Eventually arriving in snow-covered rural Nova Scotia, the family must adapt to unfamiliar surroundings. With the help of some friendly locals (and to the chagrin of others), the family begins to rebuild their chocolate business and their lives. This heartwarming story of perseverance and human connection in the face of insurmountable odds is based on Tareq Hadhad’s real-life story.
Screenings & Events
Post-Screening Discussion
In-person post-screening discussion with director Jonathan Keijser moderated by film critic Lee Shoquist.
Post-screening discussion presented by:
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Nadia, Butterfly
Synopsis
Young and in her prime, Nadia decides to retire from her career as a world-class swimmer to escape a rigid and demanding life of sacrifice. After her very last race at the Tokyo Olympic games, Nadia drifts into nights of exploration and excess punctuated by episodes of self-doubt. But even this transitional numbness cannot conceal her true inner quest as she searches to define her identity outside the world of elite sports. An official selection of the 2020 Cannes Film Festival.
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War Witch
Set Me Free
Following a 13-year-old girl adrift in a sea of powerful emotions in Montreal in 1963, the heartfelt “Set Me Free” is simultaneously an insightful family portrait, a homage to the French New Wave and a testament to the potential of film to shape and redeem life.
Monsieur Lazhar
In Montréal, Bachir Lazhar, a refugee from Algeria, is hired to replace a schoolteacher who has suddenly died. Despite the initial cultural differences, he gradually gets to know his pupils, developing a close relationship with his class.