A celebration of movies from the Caribbean and African diaspora at the HarbourFront Centre

A few weeks ago, an intriguing showcase of films from the Caribbean and African diaspora took place at the HarbourFront Centre at the 18th Annual CaribbeanTales International Film Festival (CTFF)

This year’s theme, “Eco-Survivors,” was prevalent in various films showcased shining light on urgent narratives about climate changes in the Caribbean region and Canada.

The Saturday Show

Upon my arrival, I was pleasantly surprised at how packed it was. Many families, couples, individuals, and, of course, bubbly film enthusiasts were present. Attendants guided me to lower sections in the theatre to find myself a seat.

Every film I watched was intriguing, introspective, or educational. The films had clear narratives from the jump and stayed consistent with their themes for a solid and pleasant viewing experience. My quick recap of the movies I saw

• Le retour des femmes colibris (The Return of the hummingbird women)

  • A francophone film with subtitles exploring topics on Black feminism and the creation of Négritude, a French literary and ideological movement from the 1930s

• Sugarcake (Short Film): My Personal Favorite

  • A 12-minute short about a man whose suicide attempt was averted after a reflective conversation with a prostitute.

• Diaspora (Documentary)

  • A documentary about the formation of Caribbean identity through culture, ideas, and art through the lens of migration from the motherland, Africa

The show’s conclusion was met with thunderous applause from the audience.

After the Show

I met the event organizers, including the Festival Director, Diana Webley, and Marketing Manager, Najah Dowdie, who provided detailed insights into the immense planning and organizing required to host and coordinate the event.

On my ride home, a line from the Diaspora documentary reverberated in my head: “What makes us human is the ability to feel, the ability to express, and the ability to live.” I am excited and looking forward to next year’s rendition. 

The event was made possible by the CaribbeanTales Media Group. Sponsors included TeleFilm Canada, Black Opportunity Fund, Toronto Arts Council, and Ontario Arts Council.

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