The Barrie Film Festival (BFF) is excited to announce that Reel Stories is back from March 22 to 23 with films being screened at Galaxy Cinemas in the south end. The documentaries presented during this two-day festival will feature extraordinary stories about our world and the people who live in it.
Claudine Benoit, the Director of the Barrie Film Festival shares, "There's nothing like the collective viewing experience. You really do have to support seeing films on the big screen. It has such great impact and these films create conversation."
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Films Featured In This Year’s Reel Stories
Here are the 6 films featured in this year's Reel Stories.
Blue Rodeo: Lost Together
Screening March 22 at 1:00 PM
This documentary explores the legacy of Blue Rodeo, one of Canada’s most cherished bands. Their music has woven itself into the fabric of fans’ lives, marking milestones and memories. Spanning four decades of success, resilience, and deep friendships, the film tells the story of their journey. A post-screening discussion with director Dale Heslip follows the film.
Porcelain War
Screening March 22 at 4:00 PM
Amid the chaos of war, Ukrainian artists Slava, Anya, and Andrey choose to remain, turning their defiance into art. Under the thunder of fighter jets, they seek beauty in destruction, proving that while fear is easy to instill, passion is far harder to extinguish. With 47 awards to date—including audience prizes from top festivals—and an Oscar nomination, this powerful documentary showcases art as a form of resistance.
Tracing the Divide
Screening March 22 at 6:30 PM
Two lifelong friends embark on an epic challenge: cycling the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route from Canada to Mexico. Over 24 grueling days, battling fierce winds, relentless mud, and intense monsoons, they push their physical and mental limits. Yet, amid the hardships, the journey becomes one of self-discovery and renewed purpose. Don’t miss this Canadian Premiere!
Black Box Diaries
Screening March 23 at 1:00 PM
This Oscar-nominated documentary follows journalist Shiori Ito’s courageous fight for justice as she investigates her own sexual assault case against a powerful figure. Her pursuit leads to a landmark trial that exposes the flaws within Japan’s legal and cultural systems. Hailed by Rolling Stone as “extraordinary” and “riveting,” this film highlights the power of one voice to spark systemic change.
Story & Pictures By
Screening March 23 at 4:00 PM
A captivating dive into the world of children’s picture books, this documentary explores the new “golden age” of kids’ literature. Featuring three influential contemporary authors, the film uses archival footage, in-depth storytelling, and stunning stop-motion paper animation to bring their creative journeys to life.
7 Beats Per Minute
Screening March 23 at 6:30 PM
Freediving champion Jessea Lu faces her deepest fears in this visually stunning documentary from Canadian director Yuqi Kang. After a near-death experience, she returns to the very place where it happened, confronting trauma and rediscovering her connection to the ocean. Winner of the 2024 SXSW Film Festival Grand Jury Award, this film is an unforgettable exploration of resilience and self-discovery.
Individual tickets are available in advance online or in-person on the day of screening, subject to availability. The Box Office is open 1 hour before each showtime at the venue.
Don’t wait! Head to the Barrie Film Festival Site to view the Reel Stories schedule and reserve your tickets.
