Kingston isn’t just the host city for the Kingston Canadian Film Festival (KCFF). Kingston is also the setting for some of the stories on screen.
“Between all the limestone buildings, the waterfront, and all the landmarks and features in the area, Kingston has so much to offer filmmakers looking for an interesting location to shoot,” says Tourism Kingston’s Film and Media Officer Joanne Loton. “Kingston can pull off a lot of different looks throughout the decades. It’s a great spot for filmmakers who want to add a lot of production value without having to travel far.”
Check out this selection of films to see the city and local actors and artists in action at KCFF25.
Feature films
Doom Boogie – March 1, Kingston Grand Theatre
Members of a rock band attempt to patch up a nasty breakup with a weekend in a secluded South Frontenac cottage. What could go wrong? Branded to Film’s Doom Boogie blends together hard rock with grizzly action in a high-tension thriller.
As well as being shot locally, Doom Boogie also stars local musicians Ciara Roberts of Tiny Horse and Jonah Lewis-Anthony of The Wilderness. Catch the late show on March 1 at 10 pm at the Grand Theatre.
Still Alive in Kingston – March 2, Kingston Grand Theatre
Lovers of local music will want to add Still Alive in Kingston to their watch list. Former Much Music VJ Bill Welychka stars as a fictionalized version of himself, as an entertainment journalist looking to rebuild himself in a new community and gain national prominence. While building a demo reel, Bill connects with a wide roster of local talent, capturing performances from artists including The Wilderness, Keaton, Luella, and Miss Emily.
Short films
Dry Land – March 1, Baby Grand
Contrasting the scenic harbourfront views of Kingston with interior spaces, director Jennifer Law-Smith explores the meanings of solitude in her new short film Dry Land. The film offers a unique visual study of Kingston through comparison and juxtaposition.
In Good Hands – March 1, Baby Grand
After taking home the award for Best Local Short at KCFF23, Kingston/PEC-based filmmaker, writer, and artist Naomi Okabe returns to the festival for the world premiere of In Good Hands. In this 45-minute documentary, Okabe profiles six people who have challenged gender and societal norms in their career paths, including beekeeping, flower farming, and cattle breeding.
Single Woman Seeking Child – March 2, Kingston Grand Theatre
Director and former Kingstonian Blain Watters returns to town to share Single Woman Seeking Child. This deeply personal short film tells the story of Watters’ mother in early-1980s Kingston as she pursues her dream of having a child. This intimate tale of motherhood is presented with plenty of humour and a lot of Kingston flavour.
Single Woman Seeking Child airs before the feature Still Alive in Kingston.
Local Shorts – March 1, Baby Grand
KCFF’s longstanding tradition of platforming local short films continues in its 25th season. This showcase of nine shorts is packed with variety, from a backwoods thriller to an intimate drama to a nightmarish conversation with Canada Revenue Agency. Head over to the Baby Grand on March 1 to see the complete selection.
18 MM Showcase – March 2, Baby Grand
Experience the future of Canadian film at the Baby Grand during this year’s 18 MM Showcase. 18 MM is an innovative program that provides filmmakers ages 18 and under with film training and support to make their own films. Now in its second year, the showcase features 11 diverse films. Check out the full list and order your tickets on the KCFF website.
Slaight Music Video Showcase – March 1, Kingston Grand Theatre
Now in its fifth year, the Slaight Music Video program connects Kingston musicians with local filmmakers to create music videos. On March 1, the latest batch of music videos from this popular program will be screened in a special event at the Grand Theatre. Catch new videos from Kasador, Savannah Shea, The Gertrudes, Almond Milk, and seven local musical artists. Stick around after the screening and vote for your favourite video.
For tickets to all these events, check out the KCFF website.
