Wednesday May 21
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM: Screening
SaskAbilities
162 Ball Road, Yorkton
Premiere of the film Celebrating 75 Years Together, showcasing the rich history of, celebrating the client stories and emphasizing the strength of fostering inclusive communities for individuals of all abilities throughout Saskatchewan.
Thursday May 22
7:00 PM: Opening Night Screening: Blue Rodeo: Lost Together
Parkland Room, Painted Hand Casino
Open to the public, free admission
Blue Rodeo: Lost Together is a 2024 Canadian documentary film, directed by Dale Heslip. It is an electrifying journey into the heart and soul of Blue Rodeo, one of Canada’s longest-running and most beloved bands. Guided by the unmistakable voices of Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor, this film delivers an unfiltered, often hilarious, and deeply moving account of their 40-year journey.
The panelists
Valerie Creighton
Valerie Creighton
Valerie Creighton
Valerie Creighton is an industry leader in arts, culture and media, recognized for reenergizing some of the country’s most important organizations in the sector over the last 35 years.
Currently serving as President and CEO of the Canada Media Fund, Valerie positions Canadian programming at the forefront in world markets advocating successful, innovative Canadian content and software applications for current and emerging digital platforms. Valerie has taken part in foreign trade missions and is regularly called upon to present the CMF model internationally.
Valerie holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Saskatchewan, has served on a variety of regional, national, and international juries and boards and has produced radio dramas for the CBC in Saskatchewan, where she owns and operates the Red Horse Ranch.
Melanie Hadley
Valerie Creighton
Valerie Creighton
Melanie is a member of Minegoziibe Anishinabe. She splits her time between Winnipeg and Toronto. She is currently the VP of Industry, Partnerships & Growth at the Indigenous Screen Office recently transitioning from Warner Bros. Discovery where she oversaw the Canadian team and all initiatives and investments in the screen-based industries in Canada.
She was previously a network executive at APTN and then CBC, where she managed film and television projects of all genres in development and production. It was in those roles that Melanie was on the receiving end of thousands of pitches!
Outside of her daily work, Melanie has a long history of board work with imagineNATIVE and the National Screen Institute. She currently serves on the board for Cousin Collective and countless juries and advisory roles across the industry.
In 2023 she produced a 16mm short film titled ANYWHERE written and directed by Evelyn Pakinewatik.
In all avenues she aims to connect talent to opportunity to show the world the rich tapestry of the underrepresented storytelling community.
Lowell Dean
Valerie Creighton
Charlotte Engel
Lowell Dean is a Canadian filmmaker known for his distinctive blend of genres, dark humor, and compelling storytelling. He gained early recognition for writing and directing WOLFCOP and its sequel ANOTHER WOLFCOP, which earned a loyal cult following after their theatrical releases across North America.
The WOLFCOP films garnered several accolades, including the Audience Choice Award for Best Canadian Feature at the Fantasia International Film Festival, Best Horror Feature at the Arizona Underground Film Festival, and the Special Jury Award at the Fantasporto Fantasy Film Festival, along with several Canadian Comedy Award nominations.
Since WOLFCOP, Lowell has expanded his creative range, most recently writing and directing the post-apocalyptic love story DIE ALONE, starring Carrie-Anne Moss, Douglas Smith, and Frank Grillo. The film had its international world premiere at the Sitges Film Festival, where it won the Audience Choice Award before its theatrical release in late 2024.
Lowell's DARK MATCH, a unique wrestling horror film starring Steven Ogg, Ayisha Issa, and Chris Jericho, had its world premiere at the 2024 Fantasia International Film Festival. After generating festival buzz and winning awards (CIFF, FogFest, Blood in the Snow, Sitges), DARK MATCH had a cross-Canada theatrical release and is now streaming on Shudder.
Both DIE ALONE and DARK MATCH have firmly established Lowell Dean as a filmmaker with a strong voice in the world of genre cinema. In addition to his work in feature films, Lowell is currently developing high-concept projects for both comic books and television.
Charlotte Engel
Charlotte Engel
Charlotte Engel
Charlotte Engel is a producer and a former broadcaster with over 30 years of experience in film and television. She currently is working on a documentary about garlic and is in development on a film about rockstar Lee Aaron.
While at CBC, she oversaw CBC’s cutting edge documentary strands Firsthand and CBC Docs POV. She specialized in bringing unique voices and unforgettable stories to CBC. Many of these documentaries won multiple awards ( “Indictment: The Crimes of Shelley Chartier”, “Nipawistamasowin: We Will Stand Up” and “The Skin We’re In”).
As a producer of documentaries for Rock Yenta Productions, she brought docs to CBC, TVO and the Documentary Channel. She won a Canadian Screen Award for “My Millennial Life” and a Golden Sheaf award for “Mugshot”.
Engel currently is on the board of Film PEI and Charlottetown Film Society and is also on the Yorkton Film Festival programming committee. She has previously sat on the boards of Hot Docs, DOC Ontario and imagineNATIVE.
Leslea Mair
Charlotte Engel
Steven Foster
Leslea Mair is a writer, director and producer based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With a background in theatre and experimental film, Leslea has applied her love of narrative to writing and producing award-winning documentaries and series.
She has written, produced and sometimes directed documentaries in the genres of science, current affairs, social/political issues, POV and feature documentary. She has also produced lifestyle series, a science fiction web series, and has recently added children’s animation to her slate of projects.
Steven Foster
Charlotte Engel
Steven Foster
Steven Foster is the Business Agent for the DGC Manitoba & DGC Saskatchewan. He is responsible for all local administration and office management, member, labour & industry relations. Prior to his nine years with the DGC, Steven worked in various capacities in the music industry and is well versed with the gig economy, and the role culture plays within society.
Steven also sits on various Board of Directors and spends time volunteering with community organizations.
Jeff Newman
Lucius Dechausay
Alison Korogyi
Founder and president of Nüman Films, Jeff Newman is an internationally recognized producer, showrunner, writer and director for both unscripted and branded content. For over two decades, Jeff has traveled the world to produce a wide range of critically acclaimed non-fiction programming that have earned numerous accolades and awards. Highlights include a Gemini Award, multiple Summit Awards, two Telly Awards, a Golden Sheaf Award, and three Canadian Screen Award nominations including Best Director in a Factual Series. Jeff’s unique perspective, sense of adventure, and artistic sensibility have made him a sought-after collaborator in the industry.
Along with his network of trusted creative professionals, Jeff strives to create high-quality productions that capture the human spirit while challenging audiences to engage with the world around them. Whether sharing a uniquely authentic human story, or creating unforgettable branded content and commercials, Jeff has a passion for exploring all sides of life and the human experience. He lives and works in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Alison Korogyi
Lucius Dechausay
Alison Korogyi
As a Senior Production Executive, Alison Korogyi collaborates with industry partners and oversees the production of Canadian content for Bell Media’s Original Programming slate. Alison’s portfolio covers scripted titles for all national channels, including Crave, CTV and CTV Specialty Channels. Current or announced titles include: SHORESY, UNDERBELLY, ACTING GOOD and DON’T EVEN. Prior to this role, Alison was a Development Executive in Original Programming, working with industry writers and producers on developing scripted and unscripted content. Notable titles include: THE TRADES and SIGHT UNSEEN.
Prior to joining Bell Media, Alison held a variety of permanent and freelance roles in media and event sectors, including Membership Manager for Women In Film & Television - Toronto and roles within the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Canadian Film Centre and Toronto Screenwriting Conference, and more. Alison currently sits on the Board of Directors for the ImagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival.
Lucius Dechausay
Lucius Dechausay
Lucius Dechausay
Lucius Dechausay is a multiple CSA nominated, award winning director, producer and editor based in Toronto. His short films, docs and animations have screened at numerous festivals around the world, been televised and published on a number of platforms. Through his work he aims to share diverse stories in an empowering and urgent way.
From directing the award winning dance series The Move, to cinematography for the docu-series For the Culture, to editing the TIFF Top Ten documentary Many Bloodlines, he has worn many creative hats and believes in learning, experimenting and telling authentic cultural stories.
His documentary KETTLE, premiered at Hot Docs and was listed as one of the top five films to see at the festival that year. His work producing and directing for 21 Black Futures garnered nine Canadian Screen Award nominations and five wins including Best Digital Series.
Additional credits include: the Afrofuturistic dance film A Revolution of Love with Weyni Mengesha, The Death Doula co-directed with Amanda Parris, NBA scripted short REGULAR and the back to back Digital Publishing Award winners Arrival and Kahsenniyo: Decolonizing Love. Currently, he is the Executive in Charge of Production at CBC Docs overseeing Short Docs.
Julian Black Antelope
Julian Black Antelope
Julian Black Antelope
Representing the Buckskin/Black Horse family of the Weasel People, Julian Black Antelope (aka “JBA”) is an award-winning actor, writer, director, and producer of First Nations, Central American, and Irish descent. With over 20 years of experience working globally on both sides of the camera, he has built a dynamic career spanning acting, filmmaking, and industry leadership.
JBA’s journey began in 2004 with a role in Steven Spielberg’s epic six-part miniseries Into the West (2005). From there, he quickly established himself in the industry, gaining experience through a steady stream of productions in southern Alberta—taking on day player roles, performing stunts, and working in various crew positions. His versatility and dedication laid the foundation for a career that continues to thrive on the global stage.
Still actively working as an actor, JBA’s credits include high-profile projects such as NCIS: Origins (2024), Grendel (2022), Prey (2022), and The Flash (2022). Beyond acting, he has produced an award-winning slate of feature films that have screened at major festivals worldwide. He is also the creator, writer, director, producer, and star of Secret History™, a docudrama series developed for APTN, now entering its third season.
In addition to his work in film and television, JBA is dedicated to fostering opportunities for Indigenous and BIPOC storytellers. In 2016, he founded HERD of 1 MEDIA, where he serves as President and CEO. It was within this production company that he first introduced Pathfinders, an internal training initiative designed to support aspiring BIPOC creatives. Recognizing its impact, he expanded it into a full-fledged training entity in 2023, establishing Pathfinders Film Institute—a subsidized, community-based program providing certified film education and equipping the next generation with the skills to thrive in the industry
Robert Hardy
Julian Black Antelope
Julian Black Antelope
Robert Hardy is the Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Media Production Industry Association (SMPIA). Robert has been working in Canadian television production for over 25 years as an executive, writer, producer and director focusing on documentary, lifestyle and scripted television.
Robert helped create one of the world’s first web series in 1997 and has built an extensive network within the media industry since then. He has served as President, Canada for Fireworks Media Group, Senior Vice President Development at Entertainment One, VP Development at Paperny Entertainment, network executive with Bell Media and Senior Communications officer with CBC-Radio Canada. Before that he was a fundraiser, communications director and advertising writer and director.
Joanne McDonald
Julian Black Antelope
Joanne McDonald
Sometime between the invention of colour television and the first HD broadcast in Canada, Joanne McDonald’s world has mostly been filled with screen-based media (which until recently was better known as film and television) and lots of coffee.
As the General Manager for Citytv Saskatchewan she’s involved in all aspects of broadcasting- from operations to programming. The station is a provincial educational broadcaster and was called SCN in a former life.
Over the years she has helped bring many hours of content from Saskatchewan and beyond to screens and audiences. A number of titles have won national and international awards –and have gone on to be licensed in other markets around the world.
When she’s not running a TV station, you can find her volunteering for arts and cultural organizations- at present she sits on two Boards of Directors: SaskCulture (Past President) and the Yorkton Film Festival. She also gets to vote as a member of the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television and belongs to Women in Communications and Technology. In the past she was on the board of the Saskatchewan Media Producers Industry Association and was a member of the Saskatchewan Arts Board’s Creative Industries Advisory Committee. In her other spare time she likes to make jelly salads, pull weeds in the garden and travel. And watch TV - of course.
Although her dad remains skeptical to this day, there is proof that someone with a philosophy degree can get a real job.
Leif Kaldor
Leif Kaldor
Joanne McDonald
From the Pentagon to the Shaolin temple, Maya pyramids and the Paris Opera, Leif Kaldor finds great stories wherever they live.
Leif has directed and co-written award-winning documentaries looking at drone technology, a miracle cure for MS, global air pollution, the Cockney Chinese general Two Gun Cohen, killer robots, eco-village life, and a feature documentary on preachers who aren’t believers.
He recently directed and co-wrote a feature documentary on the Paris Opera Bastille and Fall of the Maya Kings for Explora, Smithsonian Channel Canada, PBS NOVA, ARTE France and SBS Australia.
In addition to his television awards Leif is a Juno award winning music producer and a Gemini award winning multimedia pr
Zarqa Narwaz
Leif Kaldor
Zarqa Narwaz
Zarqa is a Canadian producer for film and television, a published author, public speaker, journalist, and former broadcaster. In 2007, Zarqa created the internationally renowned CBC comedy series, Little Mosque on the Prairie, the world’s first sitcom about a Muslim community living in the west.
Little Mosque on the Prairie premiered to the highest ratings CBC had in over 20 years. The show went on to win a Gemini, and was nominated for Best Television Series – Comedy at the 2007 Directors Guild of Canada Awards. Internationally, Little Mosque won awards for Best International Television Series and Best Screenplay at the 2007 Roma Fiction Fest.
In 2012, it made its American debut on Hulu, and is now broadcast in over 60 countries. The Los Angeles Times said “the genius of ‘Mosque’ is that the characters resonate with viewers all over the world.”
Scott Leary
Leif Kaldor
Zarqa Narwaz
With over 25 years of experience and a credit list that includes Feature Films, Documentary Features, Documentary Series, Lifestyle Series, Kids Series and even development of an Adult Animated Series, Scott R. Leary has never allowed himself to be pigeon hold into one genre or another. As the creative driving force behind series such as The Illegal Eater, Ancient Bodies; Secrets Revealed!, Cruise Ship Killers and many others, Scott has enjoyed both critical and commercial success as an award winning Producer/Director. In his new role as the Chief Content Officer of Farpoint Films he helps shepherd the vision of over 150 hours of content a year.
Grace Bruinooge
Grace Bruinooge
Grace Bruinooge
Grace Bruinooge holds a bachelor of arts in communications and media with a minor in English. A proud Red River Métis and settler mix, Grace was born and raised on Treaty 1 Territory (Winnipeg, Manitoba).
Passionate about storytelling, Grace first joined the National Screen Institute in 2021 as screening support for TELUS STORYHIVE. She later served as program coordinator for CBC New Indigenous Voices in 2023 and 2024, before taking on her current role as operations administrator.
In this role, Grace brings her creative problem-solving and organizational skills to effectively support staff and program participants. Dedicated to assisting talented storytellers in Canada and those connected with the National Screen Institute, she combines her passion for storytelling with her professional expertise.
In her free time, Grace enjoys graphic design, spending time with loved ones and diving into her latest creative project.
Remi Dufour
Grace Bruinooge
Grace Bruinooge
Remi is the primary lead for Creative Saskatchewan's film and television finance portfolio and delivers economic reporting for the sector.
Remi’s team administers the film incentives for the Province, along with other Film Commission services.
Remi is a Chartered Professional Accountant and has experience working in various financial and accounting roles across several industries.
Jon Taylor
Grace Bruinooge
Catherine Moreau
Jon Taylor is a media executive based in Toronto, Canada. Jon is the CEO of the Independent Production Fund, one of Canada's oldest funding agencies and a pioneer in digital series development and production financing. Prior to joining the IPF, Jon was VP of Digital Content & Strategy at Bell Media where he led the launch of Crave, Canada’s premiere streaming platform. Prior to that Jon was Executive Producer of CTV Network and has worked as a producer for Discovery, ESPN, MTV, the United Nations, the Academy Awards and at the Olympic Games.
Catherine Moreau
Catherine Moreau
Catherine Moreau
Catherine Moreau brings over 15 years of experience in the audiovisual and media sector, with a track record spanning scripted, documentary, variety, and youth television, both in production and content development. In 2021, she joined the Independent Production Fund (IPF) as Deputy Director of the Montreal office, where she manages the French-language programs and champions the interests of francophone nationwide. Her work at the IPF has deepened her expertise in project analysis and audiovisual financing, while sharpening her strategic perspective on the challenges and opportunities of an industry undergoing significant transformation.
Johnny Zhang
Catherine Moreau
Johnny Zhang
I have 15 years of experience in the financial services sector supporting companies in the Media and Entertainment industry.
I hold a post-secondary degree in Business Administration from Brandon University. My professional designations include a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from University of Regina and a Certificate in Financial Services Advice from Canadian Security Institute.
I am committed to continually building my knowledge so I can provide you with advice that is current and relevant in today’s environment.
Erin Dean
Will Dixon
Will Dixon
Erin is the CEO for Creative Saskatchewan. She is responsible for the overall operation of the organization, by providing strategic leadership and working closely with the provincial government, industry stakeholders, the Board of Directors, and the senior management team.
Erin was Creative Saskatchewan’s first employee, as the Director of Programs, and has been heavily involved in the creation of programming right from the start. Previously, Erin was a Program Officer at the Saskatchewan Film Commission and has experience working in Business Affairs for several independent production companies.
Erin obtained her BFA in Film and Video Production and BA in English at the University of Regina. Erin also holds a Certificate in Entertainment Law from the Osgoode Hall Law School. In her spare time, Erin enjoys spending time with her family, especially baking with her daughter, watching the silver screen, and game nights with friends.
Will Dixon
Will Dixon
Will Dixon
As the Program Manager, Original Production (Citytv, OMNI, Citytv Sask), Rogers Sports and Media, Will Dixon oversees the development and production of original homegrown programming for the Rogers owned station.
Prior to this position, Will spent three years as a Regional Development Executive for the premium pay television network Super Channel. Before that Will worked primarily in TV production spending almost 20 years writing, directing, story editing, and producing series and movies everywhere from Toronto to Vancouver to Montreal to Edmonton to Regina to Los Angeles.
Jim Krysko
Will Dixon
Jim Krysko
As the AMI Content Development Specialist for Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Jim works with external production companies to bring unique documentaries and docu-series to AMI’s national audience.
Along with his 10 years at AMI working directly with the disability community, Jim brings with him many years of experience in production and post-production.
Cara Nye
Danielle Audette
Jim Krysko
Since joining AMI-tv in 2012, Cara has moved from overseeing the channel’s internal productions to her current role as Director of Content Development and Production. She is now responsible for all of AMI’s current original content including Mind Your Own Business, Dish With Mary and returning series’ By Hook or By Cook and Breaking Character.
Cara is responsible for screening pitches, show development, and ensuring that all content meets AMI’s standard bearing qualities with respect to disability storytelling and inclusivity in all areas of original production – both on camera and behind the scenes.
Cara and her team at AMI are dedicated to creating accessible content for all Canadians. Through a production process called Integrated Described Video (IDV), AMI embeds audio description directly into the programs they produce, providing a seamless and inclusive experience for the blind or partially sighted viewer. Applying the IDV method in production ensures that the integrity of the program, as envisioned by the producers, is not altered in a post-production environment, but included in all stages: pre-production, production and post.
Cara has over 30 years of production experience, having previously worked at networks such as MuchMusic, Citytv, OMNI, FX Canada, OLN and Bio.
Steve Allen
Danielle Audette
Danielle Audette
Steve Allen is a principal partner, founding member and a Producer and Director with the Wavelength Entertainment Group and is responsible for major decisions on key issues for the Wavelength Entertainment Group of companies.
Steve has worked in the television industry as a Director and/or Director of Photography on commercials and documentary series since 2001 for History Television, Discovery Channel, Discovery Military, The Smithsonian Channel US, A&E Biography, and TLC.
In 2009 he won the Showcase best Photography award In 2005 for Worksafe Saskatchewan “Hospital” commercial, He was nominated for a Canadian Society of Cinematographers C.S.C. Award for Best Cinematography for his work on the documentary Escape from Iran, which was also nominated for a Gemini Award. He was nominated for a Showcase Award for Best Cinematography in a Documentary for the series Crime Stories. He has also been nominated for a Showcase Award for Best Visual Effects.
Danielle Audette
Danielle Audette
Danielle Audette
Danielle Yvonne Marie Audette (Red River Métis-Francophone) is a manager of programs and development for the National Screen Institute and a freelance consultant in the film and television industry specializing in production management, business affairs and post-production supervising.
Her journey began in 1998 with Les Productions Rivard Inc, Canada’s first independent francophone production company outside of la belle province dedicated to weaving documentary stories shared by franco-minorities from the Yukon River to the Great Lakes.
In 2002, Danielle began freelancing as a production manager on various historical documentaries for a multitude of independent companies which led her to post-production manage a series of horror / thriller films in 2007 (natural progression) enabling her to work with an amazing roster of talent from across North America.
APTN, the world’s first Indigenous broadcaster, welcomed Danielle in 2009 where she immersed herself in a new community of storytellers specializing in all genres of programs in Indigenous languages including the historical debut of Rogers Hometown Hockey in Cree on APTN in 2019.
Danielle resides within Treaty 1 territory.
Daniel Cross
Rob McLaughlin
Daniel Cross
As founder of EyeSteelFilm in Montreal, Daniel has been a central figure in the international documentary community for over 25 years. His process-driven and hyper-personal approach, as director, as producer and as educator, have had a profound influence on a generation of documentary filmmakers.
Films such The Street: a film with the homeless, S.P.I.T.: Squeegee Punks in Traffic, Homeless Nation, Up the Yangtze, Last Train Home, Yintah, and more than 50 other feature films are all testament to his level of discipline and sensitive approach to complex cultural situations.
His most recent film as director/producer I Am the Blues received two Yorkton Golden Sheaf Awards, along with two Canadian Screen Awards (Canada’s Oscar). Cross is a voting member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS).
Kaya Wheeler
Rob McLaughlin
Daniel Cross
Kaya Wheeler, Program Manager, Indigenous Screen Office, is of Anishnaabe and Nehiyaw descent – is a registered member of Sagkeeng First Nation in Manitoba. She graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a bachelor of arts in Indigenous Studies, and has been working within the Indigenous community in Winnipeg for more than 10 years.
She has spent a large portion of this time working with Indigenous youth in many areas, including acting and storytelling for theatre. For the last five years she has specifically worked with emerging and mid-career storytellers in film, tv and digital media.
She has had experience both volunteering and working on film sets, and even had a small stint on the stage and in front of the camera.
Rob McLaughlin
Rob McLaughlin
Rob McLaughlin
Rob McLaughlin is the Chief Strategy Officer at the National Board of Canada.
Raised in Yorkton, Rob has worked as a journalist, producer and senior media executive for over 25 years and is recognized for his influential role in advancing Canada's digital media landscape.
At the NFB, he has served as Executive Producer of the Animation Studio, Executive Producer of the Interactive and Digital Studio, and Co-Director of the NFB Innovation Lab. As Chief Strategist, Rob works closely with the NFB Commissioner to define and implement the organization’s overall strategic vision.
Mark Miller
Alyssa McLellan
Rob McLaughlin
Mark Miller is President Cineflix Studios Vancouver. He is one of North America’s most successful factual producers.
He is the creator of hundreds of hours of television, including the hit series; Highway Thru Hell. In 2010 he co-founded Great Pacific Media and served as president of Thunderbird Entertainment. No other creative producer in Canada has created and then sold more hours of factual international television into more markets. As Executive Producer of CBC’s Kim’s Convenience he cemented his success across scripted and unscripted television.
Miller is driven by a commitment to authentic storytellers and storytelling. 35 years ago his career started in Indigenous media, producing and hosting bilingual Cree/English newscasts for the Arctic. Over the past three decades he has championed Indigenous stories and storytellers through mentorship and seed financing. In 2021 Mark became the lead investor in Indigifilm, a studio focused on creating Indigenous led content. Cold Road, the company’s first theatrical drama, was released in the spring.
Alyssa McLellan
Alyssa McLellan
Alyssa McLellan
By the time Alyssa graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Stage Management & Technical Theatre from the University of Regina she was already working professionally as a Lighting Technician, Wardrobe Technician, and Stage Manager.
Although her formal training is in theatre, Alyssa’s experience focused more on special events and live music. After three years as a lighting technician at Regina’s busiest roadhouse, Alyssa joined a production company where she expanded her skills to include design, programming, production management, and staging.
Four years later she opened the Christie Lites Sales Saskatchewan office and has never looked back. She finds great satisfaction in helping other people build their vision and solving problems.
Bruce Lozinsky
Alyssa McLellan
Alyssa McLellan
Bruce’s relationship with performance lighting began in the late 1970s with high school and community theatre productions. But his first love has always been music, so he moved into the recorded music sales industry, which at the time was exploding.
Eventually he saw merging his two interests as a path to actively participate in live music, so he began a 35-year career of designing concert and special event lighting systems. This eventually led to touring, and then accepting a position with a production company closer to home.
Over time, Bruce discovered that helping others make appropriate choices for their venues could be just as rewarding as doing shows was. Wanting to give that his full attention, he opened the Saskatchewan office of Christie Lites Sales with Alyssa in 2013.
Friday, May 23 - Screening Room A - Gallagher Centre
09:00 AM - Our Last Day As Kids (21:13m)
YFF25 – Short Subject Fiction
A coming-of-age story set in the mid-2000s underground music scene, that follows quiet and naive punk, Casey, as he tries to piece together the broken memories recorded on his camcorder.
Director: Dylan Hryciuk
09:40 AM - Healing Hearts (14:30m)
YFF25 Nominee - Short Subject Non-Fiction
Healing Hearts tells the story of Nicole Redvers, a Deninu K’ue First Nation, Associate Professor and AIWF Co-Founder, along with two Elders Council co-leads, who created the Arctic Indigenous Wellness Foundation in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories in Canada. Through ancestral wisdom, Indigenous teachings, the Northern Lights, Spirits, the Land and Love, we explore and reconnect with ourselves through the values of these Indigenous peoples; where healing and culture intertwine in harmony. Nicole embodies “you are love” in this vignette by highlighting the love and intergenerational strength that lives in everyone.
Director: Amy Belling
10:10 AM – Poos (04:35m)
YFF25 Nominee - Children’s/Youth Productions
Poos is an animated adventure of Thumper the cat exploring her home and elements of Blackfoot culture.
Director: Celestine Twigg
10:30 AM - RecoverED: A Documentary Film About Eating Disorder Recovery (50:47m)
YFF25 Nominee - Mental Health, Ruth Shaw Award (Best of Saskatchewan), Kathleen Shannon Award
RecoverED is a compelling documentary that explores the journey of recovery from disordered eating through powerful personal stories of resilience. The film highlights the vital role of community support and the transformative power of hope in healing. It delves into the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges faced by individuals battling eating disorders, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of recovery. RecoverED aims to inspire those struggling and to raise awareness about the recovery process, underscoring that with the right support, perseverance, and resources, recovery is possible.
Director: Tyler Anderson
11:35 AM - Last Manitoba Meal (15:00m)
YFF25 Nominee - Community Television Productions
If you could have just one last meal here in Manitoba, what kind of local dishes would be on your menu? How about a Fat Boy from Dairy Whip, baby back ribs from the Silver Heights restaurant, fresh Manitoba grown corn, Mitzi’s chicken fingers and your grandma’s famous strawberry-rhubarb pie? Or what about steamed shrimp dumplings from Kum Koon Garden, a BDI Goog Special, fresh beet salad from your Uncle Jim’s garden, and a T-bone steak from Rae & Jerry’s Steakhouse? With so many mouth-watering culinary opportunities in Manitoba to choose from, the combinations for decadent and delicious meals is endless! In Last Manitoba Meal, host, foodie, magician, and aspiring chef Cary Tardi is on a mission to curate and create spectacular personalized meals worthy of being the last meal for some of Manitoba’s most fascinating people!
Director: Jeff Newman
12:10 PM - The Canadian Dream (08:48m)
YFF25 Nominee - Emerging Filmmaker, Multicultural, Kathleen Shannon Award
A migrant farmer’s quest for a better life in Canada unfolds through his own words and from his daughter’s perspective in this poignant family portrait. The film exposes the harsh exploitation and dismal working conditions Ontario’s migrant farm workers endure, while at the same time celebrating the resilience of the human spirit as it is manifested in one man’s battle for justice.
Director: Ilse Moreno
12:35 PM – Boutique (20:40m)
YFF25 Nominee - Short Subject - Fiction (Over 15 mins)
On the night of the Taliban's arrival in Kabul a young woman makes decisions on how to survive her fragile future.
Director: Brishkay Ahmed
01:10 PM - Secret History: Women Warriors - EP 208 "Ladies First" (22:21m)
YFF25 Nominee - Documentary Series, Indigenous Award
During a family outing, a T’lingit woman and her family stumble upon gold prompting a claim staked in her husband’s name. Her traditional ways of knowing prove essential in ensuring the family's survival as they mine their way to riches but her newfound lifestyle starts to crumble when the evils of money start to creep in.
Director: Julian Black Antelope
02:40 PM - Pieces Within (14:52m)
YFF25 Nominee - Mental Health, Outstanding Colour Grading
A poet's muse calls on his inner child to save their relationship.
Director: Sam Luk
03:10 PM - The Crown and Indigenous People: Residential Schools (27:16m)
YFF25 Nominee – Series, Research
Documentary series examining the relationship between the British Crown (Canada) and Canada's Indigenous people.
Director: Cary Ciesielski
04:00 PM - Flat Out Food (22:30m)
YFF25 – Documentary Series
In its fourth season, Flat Out Food embarks on another field-to-plate adventure! Host Jenn Sharp continues her journey, searching for the most unique and delicious uses of simple, local ingredients.
From the field to the orchard to the plate, food brings people together and connects us in a way that few things can. While traveling across Saskatchewan, Jenn meets passionate farmers, creative entrepreneurs, and talented chefs who take humble ingredients to incredible places.
Director: Adrian Halter
Friday, May 23 - Screening Room A - Gallgher Centre
04:40 PM - Better Late Than Never (01:00m)
YFF25 – Short Subject Non-Fiction
Better Late Than Never provides a small glimpse into Ande’s transition as a mature trans man. The images symbolize the frustration of numerous forms required to update identification documents, medical and physical challenges to overcome, to finally revealing that age is irrelevant to becoming ourselves.
Director: Ande Brown
Friday, May 23 - Ravine Room - Gallagher Centre
09:00 AM - Revolutions That Changed History (00:52m)
YFF25 Nominee – Documentary History & Biography
Though history has long lionised its great leaders, being an elite wasn’t all glory and prosperity. Power is far from absolute, and allegiance, always conditional. Uncover the gripping histories behind the battles the old world wrestled. Fought between those set on maintaining the old ways and those seeking to overthrow them.
Director: Daniel Oron
10:15 AM - Stories of the North - Season 3 (07:15)
YFF25 Nominee - Children's/Youth Productions
A series of short Indigenous language-based stories featuring common events and themes of the North being passed in the traditional oral story-telling manner from an elder to a child.
Director: Bo Shingoose
10:45 AM - Trailblazing: The Matt Hadley Story (27:00m)
YFF25 Nominee - Documentary POV (Point of View)
After a life-altering accident shatters his world, former elite mountain biker and trail builder, Matt Hadley, faces the ultimate test of resilience. With his career and passions on the line, Matt embarks on an extraordinary journey to rebuild his life and defy the odds. This inspiring story explores the power of determination, community, and the human spirit in the face of unimaginable challenges.
Director: Kim Logan
11:30 AM - Henderson (11:06m)
YFF25 Nominee - Emerging Filmmaker
A weekend holiday in Vegas turns sour for Ally when she wakes up in a hotel room in Henderson with no recollection of how she got there. With no phone, no memory and not a familiar face in sight, will she make it back in time for her friend's wedding?
Director: Lori Watt
12:20 PM - Voices of Freedom (44:08m)
YFF25 Nominee - Documentary POV (Point of View)
"Voices of Freedom" is an insight into the creative process of a young woman who is trying to create something bigger than war and show the world that Ukraine and Ukrainians still matter.
Director: Sam Karney
01:20 PM - Driver's Licence (24:30m)
YFF25 Nominee - Ruth Shaw Award (Best of Saskatchewan)
An elderly man must navigate a major life transition after a series of driving mishaps results in a loss of licence.
Directors: Lynette Piper, Karla Weber
02:05 PM - Another Day's Past (53:43m)
YFF25 Nominee - Community Television Productions, Ruth Shaw Award (Best of Saskatchewan)
Amid the rising threat of Hitler, a courageous group from Saskatchewan answered the call to arms. Their remarkable stories highlight the resilience required to combat oppression across land, sea, and sky. At the same time, women on the home front played a vital role, offering essential support that enabled those in battle to continue their fight for freedom.
Director: Matthew Hood
03:15 PM - Play It Loud! (58:53m)
YFF25 Nominee - Documentary Arts/Culture, Director-Non-Fiction, Research
The film reveals a social and cultural migration that made Canada a mecca for Jamaican music, recognized around the world, but little heralded at home. This story is told through the life, music, struggles and triumphs of beloved Jamaican Canadian singer Jay Douglas.
Director: Graeme Mathieson
04:30 PM - Big Small Town (31:28m)
YFF25 Nominee - Community Television Productions
Big Small Town is an absurdly funny sketch comedy show, based in small town Manitoba - each short sketch is filled with highly produced off-the-wall humour featuring the best of prairie comedians. From sentient self-checkout machines to Halloween funerals, each sketch is a hilarious adventure with comedians like Kevin McDonald, Jane Testar, Quinn Greene, and more..
Director: Taylor Brown
Saturday, May 24 - Screening Room A - Gallagher Centre
09:00 AM Why Am I - Season 6 (07:30M)
YFF25 Nominee Children's/Youth Productions
Why? It’s a question every child asks as they explore the fascinating new world around them. Believe it or not, this curiosity is no different in the animal kingdom! Lily the bison and Otis the Otter love helping curious critters answer their questions and make friends along the way!
Director: Adrian Dean
09:30 AM Lilly Visit the Hospital (06:33m)
YFF25 Nominee - Children's/Youth Productions
Lilly, a 12' tall orange Monster takes her friend Fluffle to visit patients in a hospital. What could go wrong?
Directors: Medina Dennie, Ocean Demuth, Zaiyah Dennie, Sol Demuth, Xstine Cook, Heather Cook
09:55 AM Judith Jacquie Grace (30:00m)
YFF25 Nominee - Documentary POV (Point of View)
Three women recount their experiences with menopause against a backdrop that hints at the history of misogyny that silenced its discourse, yet is about to face a dramatic turning point in medicine.
Directors: C Hudson Hwang, Amy Belling
11:10 AM UnTapped (22:09m)
YFF25 Nominee Short Subject - Non-Fiction
A successful and thoughtful grassroots Saskatchewan program that is creating more inclusive and diverse workplaces.
Director: Jennifer Jellicoe \
11:50 AM To Kill A Dictator (48:00m)
YFF25 Nominee Documentary History & Biography, Research
In stories motivated by obsession, hatred, politics, and fanaticism, covert plots and dark conspiracies take shape. For decades, the details of these plans, hatched to put an end to tyranny, have remained virtually unknown. Now, we go behind closed doors to meet the rebels, revolutionaries, and intelligence operatives tasked with undertaking these ruthless takedowns. What was their rationale for bloodshed? From unchecked rises to power, to homegrown genocide, and worse -- what did these dictators do to inspire murderous intentions?
12:50 PM Relationship Remix (44:00m)
YFF25 Nominee Documentary POV (Point of View)
In Relationship Remix, three married couples from Manitoba, each in a mixed relationship, sit down for heartfelt interviews that provide a deep dive into their lives. One of the couples, a rare and inspiring Jamaican-Pakistani pair, has been married for 16 years and raised four children. We explore how their distinct cultures, traditions, food, family dynamics, and music shape their everyday experience while navigating the unique challenges of living in Western Canada.
Director: Jacob Markham
1:50 PM 30 Years after 57:35m)
YFF25 Nominee Documentary Social/Political
Indigenous people everywhere have something in common: Colonialism stole their land! In 1994, the indigenous people of Chiapas, Mexico, formed a resistance group, the Zapatistas, to reclaim their land and form their own government. No one is allowed in! 30 years later, it is still forbidden to set foot in these Zapatista communities.
Directors: Liane Simard, Sarah Lajoie-Asselin
Saturday, May 24 - Ravine Room- Gallgher Centre
09:35 AM - Persistence of Vision (18:52m)
YFF25 Nominee – Short Subject - Non-Fiction
For Thomas Edison, the creation of the motion picture camera was strictly business. For his young assistant, W.K.L. Dickson, it was much more. It was his destiny. This short historical documentary examines how the first motion picture camera in America came to be. Through Edison’s power and W.K.L. Dickson’s ambition they changed the way we view the world.
Director: John Marsonet
10:10 AM - Going Native (22:00m)
YFF25 Nominee - Documentary Series, Indigenous
Celebrated humorist and author Drew Hayden Taylor explores new aspects of Native life, examining stereotypes and traditions while discovering cool new ways Indigenous people shape their culture in the 21st century. In Season 3, Drew goes global.
Directors: Sam Karney, Andrew Wiens, Kurt Spenrath, Paul Kemp
11:00 AM - The Wounds Within: An Endometriosis Story (51:18m)
YFF25 Nominee - Documentary POV (Point of View), Emerging Filmmaker
"The Wounds Within: An Endometriosis Story" follows the filmmaker’s journey of attaining diagnosis and treatment after 25 years—a journey that ended with infertility and changed the course of her future. From the first signs that something was wrong, to finally receiving proper surgical care, the film explores the physical and emotional toll and aftermath of a disease that ravages the body and alters life plans.
Director: Lora Brovold
12:10 PM – Brotherly (08:43m)
YFF25 Nominee - Short Subject - Fiction (15 Mins & Under), Multicultural, Director Fiction
A deeply personal film inspired by true events, "Brotherly" follows two brothers grappling with mental illness and the complexities of euthanasia. When one brother makes a life-altering decision, the other must confront his own beliefs and navigate the emotional turmoil of their shared journey.
12:35 PM - 7TH GEN - Curtis Howson (22:00m
YFF25 Nominee - Documentary History & Biography
7TH GEN celebrates young Indigenous leaders from across the country who are honouring their culture and making a tremendous impact despite the obstacles they’ve faced.
Curtis Howson, Métis and Ojibwe, is a role model as an actor, community youth worker, and business owner who is devoted to learning his culture.
Director: Dinae Robinson
1:10 PM - Highway Robbery: The Regina Bypass Scandal (59:35m)
YFF25 Nominee – Ruth Shaw Award (Best of Saskatchewan), Research
In the heart of Saskatchewan, a scandal was brewing that would shake the province to its core. The Regina Bypass, a project meant to improve transportation and safety, became a symbol of corruption and betrayal.
Director: Danny Johnston
Saturday, May 24 - Painted Hand Casino
2:45 PM Dance With Me (22:53m)
YFF25 Nominee - Community Television Productions
Dance With Me explores how the tradition of square dancing on PEI is making a come back.
Director: Charlotte Engel
3:20 PM Sounds & Pressure: Reggae in a Foreign Land(15:00m)
YFF25 Nominee Documentary Series, Director Non-Fiction
Sounds & Pressure: Reggae in a Foreign Land follows the journeys of these icons. Through rare archives and infectious beats, this captivating five-part anthology series takes you from Kingston to Kensington Market to see and hear how reggae made roots in Canada against all odds.
Directors: Graeme Mathieson, Chris Flanagan
3:40 PM Spiritbox - Perfect Soul (04:00m)
YFF25 Nominee - Performing Arts & Entertainment, Ruth Shaw Award (Best of Saskatchewan)
In this music video for Spiritbox's single "Perfect Soul," a soul tries to understand her murder.
Director: Dylan Hryciuk
4:00 PM Nebuchadnezzar (15:29m)
YFF25 Nominee - Student Productions
Following a shocking, on-air disturbance, a curious Stage Manager begins to suspect that something is deeply off about the talk show she works for, and its eccentric host.
Director: Samuel Ogunremi