From body rituals to gender journeys, the Future of Film Showcase (FOFS) returns to Toronto with a bold lineup of debut feature films from first time local directors for its 2025 edition. The festival runs from June 19 to 22 in-person with a few online events.
This year, FOFS is showcasing a new generation of storytellers with fresh, intimate takes on identity, friendship, and self expression.
Below I am sharing my picks of screenings and industry events for you to check out at this year’s FOFS.
Film Picks
Opening Night Shorts Programme + Q&A
Thursday, June 19 at 7:30pm
This program presents FOFS’ 2025 Official Selection of narrative, nonfiction and experimental short films. Join in to celebrate short films created by Canadian emerging filmmakers across Canada.
Rien De Mal
Director: Samuel Plante
Friday, June 20 at 8pm
After a shocking revelation turns Andrea’s life upside down and tests the bond with her younger sister Claire, they embark together on a strange scavenger hunt searching for hidden truths, and a way back to each other. Based on true events.
Fortescue
Director: Rebecca Love
Sunday, June 22 at 7:30pm
A quiet reflection on womanhood, psychosis and friendship, Fortescue begins capturing the whimsical
and platonic love that exists between two old friends, as they eat, tan and play on the sunny shores of an old worldly summer cottage. When a boyfriend arrives on the scene, for them all to perform an age old fairy tale for the neighbouring cottagers, one of the friends descends into a frightening trance, sharing the pains of living shackled to a dated ideal of womanhood.
Both of the above feature film presentations will be preceded by short films.
Student Shorts Programme + Q&A
Sunday, June 22 at 10:30am
A collection of student-made short films directed by emerging Canadian talent. These filmmakers prove they are some of Canada’s leading talent to watch, with a variety of stories spanning drama, comedy and experimental genres.
Industry Programming
DEIA in Casting Panel
Friday, June 20 at 11:00am EST| ONLINE
Co-presented by ACTRA Toronto
Moderated by Mariah Inger (ACTRA National DEIB Committee Chair, Actor)
This panel is dedicated to providing valuable insight on the casting process in film & television, from advice for actors entering an audition room to what to look for in a performer as a casting director. Leading industry casting directors will share their personal experiences and insider’s knowledge on relevant topics, such as virtual casting, diversity and inclusivity in our industry, and the current climate of storytelling.
Building Bridges: Empowering Indigenous Filmmakers
Friday, June 20 at 3:30pm EST | ONLINE
Co-presented by the Indigenous Screen Office
Moderated by Kaya Wheeler (Program Manager of Strategic Initiatives, Indigenous Screen Office)
Representation starts with access. This virtual panel invites Indigenous creators, industry leaders, and cultural advocates to discuss how we can build more equitable and culturally informed spaces within the screen industry. Hear from Indigenous filmmakers about their journeys, the importance of community-driven storytelling, and what meaningful support and partnership actually looks like.
Open to all, this session is an opportunity to listen, learn, and be part of the movement toward lasting change.
Rising Star + Trailblazer Award Conversation: Humberly Gonzalez + Devery Jacobs
Sunday, June 22 at 5:30pm EST | IN PERSON | Paradise Theatre
A casual In Conversation Series discussion featuring the recipients of our rising star and trailblazer awards, featuring actors Humberly Gonzalez (Star Trek: Section 31, Tarot) and Devery Jacobs (Reservation Dogs), their careers as actors and body of work. The talk will touch on how to pursue a career in the industry and work on inspiring young creatives to follow their passions within the film industry.


FOFS presentations will take place between June 19 to 22, 2025. All film screenings will take place at the Paradise Theatre in Toronto. Industry events will include both virtual/online and in-person options. Please visit the FOFS website for details, schedule and tickets.