Within Toronto’s vibrant bar scene, a diverse group of musicians come together to form
a band with a mission: to ignite a musical revolution. As they channel their individual struggles and experiences into their music, The New Normals create a dynamic rock sound that transcends gender and sexuality. But as they rise to fame, personal and romantic entanglements complicate their journey. A who’s-who of local music featuring
original songs from Torquil Campbell of Stars fame, the soundtrack also includes Peaches, Gentleman Reg, and The Hidden Cameras.

North American Premiere

Helen lives with her ex-husband, his girlfriend, their new baby, and her ex-mother-in-law, who luckily remains her trusted ally. As she goes back and forth between working at the chicken factory and taking care of everyone at home, her dreary routine begins to take its toll. A bright spot appears in her otherwise mundane life when her high school crush, Joanne, returns to town. A musical drama set in northern Wales, Chuck Chuck Baby follows one woman as she finds the courage to stand up for herself and finally go after the life she deserves.

The year is 2006 and George, a small-town sixteen-year-old who’s convinced he’s a gifted musician, can’t seem to get anyone’s attention long enough to prove it. When the son of a famous rock star enrolls in his school, George experiences a clarity of passion and a road to success. But what exactly is the measure of success: collaborating on the next smash pop hit, or winning the heart of the son of one half of a mega-famous musical duo? Set against a soundtrack of 2000s indie bangers, with an original song by Ollie Alexander, Bonus Track will have your heart soaring up the charts.

Canadian Premiere

Please note: This film will not be screened with captions.

Singer Dalton Harris’s dreams came true when he won The X Factor in the UK in 2018. But the joy of winning was mixed with pain when people back home in Jamaica threatened boycotts and violence against him, perceiving Dalton to be gay after seeing a photo of him sitting on a man’s lap. This compelling and honest documentary by acclaimed director Kim Longinotto and newcomer Franky Murray Brown looks at a talented artist working to overcome a childhood filled with poverty and violence and find success in the face of mental health challenges, amidst the struggle to be open about his sexuality.

This film contains discussions around homophobia.

Canadian Premiere

Filmed during The Teaches of Peaches anniversary tour in 2022, this documentary seamlessly weaves together exclusive archival gems with dynamic tour footage, capturing the transformative journey of local superstar Merrill Nisker into the internationally acclaimed cultural powerhouse Peaches. From the inception of the stage show to the rigorous rehearsals and riveting performances, the film provides an intimate look at the inner workings of a tour led by this beloved and globally celebrated icon. Her fearless originality has challenged social norms, dismantled stereotypes, and confronted patriarchal power structures. Through biting wit, she advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights and tackles issues of gender and sexual identity, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.