Rendezvous with Madness (RWM) celebrates its 27th edition from October 10 – 20, 2019. This year, RWM will showcase 14 feature film and short programs from around the globe, 4 live performance pieces, a visual arts exhibition, plus a new event, Laughter vs. The Universe – a one night only comedy showcase designed to remind us that sometimes laughter truly is the best medicine.
To get you organized, I list some of my top picks for this year’s festival. So go on, #GetMad: Join the Conversation.
Film Program
Thursday, October 10th, 6:30pm
Conviction
A team of documentary filmmakers gain access to a female correctional facility in Nova Scotia to tackle the crisis from within. Utilizing cameras, spoken word poetry and art supplies, the women share their experiences with institutionalization and unapologetically address the ineptitude of incarceration. Working alongside the Elizabeth Fry Society and the filmmakers, the women envision a better alternative to a failing criminal justice system to build communities; not cages.
Conviction (Trailer 90 sec.) from NFB/marketing on Vimeo.
Friday, October 18th, 6:00pm
Junha’s Planet
Junha is a 4th grader who doesn’t make friends easily. Afraid he will attack or spit on them, his classmates keep their distance. Junha’s teachers spend most of their time with Junha trying to discipline him or simply understand why he behaves the way he does. But Junha lives on the Autism spectrum: he has little to no control over his impulses. Concerned parents of Junha’s peers question whether he should be educated in the same environment as their kids. While the school advocates for Autism awareness and encourages children to support Junha, many lose their patience. Including Junha.
JunHa’s Planet _Trailer_181017-QuickTime H.264 from Taskovski Films on Vimeo.
Live Performance
October 10 – 20, 8pm
The Life and Death of Fred Herko
Dead End Studios (7 Fraser Ave., #13)
In 1964, at the age of 28, a queer dancer named Fred Herko jetéd out the window of his ex-lover’s apartment – naked, and high on speed. Through striking sound design, movement and text the piece reimagines the dancer’s infamous last moments and seeks to find utopian potential in his tragic story.
October 11 – 20, various times
Psychosis
Workman Arts Theatre (651 Dufferin St.)
This piece is inspired by the investigation of Ronald’s mental health episode in Canada and pulls into the present to explore an awareness of adversity, reconciliation and resilience. By connecting relationships between disability, environment and the human spirit, Psychosis seeks to explore the trauma and ongoing challenges of mental health, while dealing with bouts of darkness, depression and the human psyche.
Saturday, October 19th, 7pm
Laughter vs. The Universe
Comedy Bar (945 Blood St. West)
Featuring a star studded line up including guest appearances from Christophe Davidson, Tamara Shevon and a special headline performance by Chanty Marostica.
As usual, almost all screening events will be followed by compelling and urgent talks with filmmakers and experts in a programmed discussion series entitled #GetMad: Join the Conversation.
Advance tickets for all events are “pay as you wish” and offered for $12, $15, or $20 online or by phone (416-583-4339 Mon-Fri 10am-5pm). For full festival details, visit workmanarts.com.
