locarno’s First Look Heads to Canada, Showcasing Emerging and Established Filmmakers
the Locarno Film Festival‘s First Look, a work-in-progress showcase, is expanding its reach with its 14th edition set to take place in canada. This move underscores the growing prominence of Canadian cinema and its diverse talent pool,according to industry insiders.
A Strategic Shift Northward
“Canada was on our radar for a while,as we believe there’s a roster of great talents being produced in that territory which brings a great diversity and also a good mix of emerging and established filmmakers,” noted Locarno’s Industry Manager Daria voumard. The decision to host First Look in Canada feels particularly organic, given the strong depiction of Canadian films within the festival’s official selections.Previously,First Look has spotlighted productions from countries across the globe,including Colombia,Mexico,Chile,Brazil,Israel,Poland,and several European nations.
Six Films in the spotlight
This year’s showcase will feature six distinct projects, ranging from narrative features to compelling documentaries. An international jury comprised of Franck Finance-madureira, Kim Yutani, and Jacqueline Lyanga will bestow awards on August 10, 2025. Prior to the awards ceremony, industry professionals will have the possibility to view the films and engage with the filmmakers.
“Veins” – A Quebec Noir
Raymond St-Jean‘s “Veins” promises a gripping genre experience. The story follows Isabelle as she travels to visit her ailing father,only to discover he has passed away. Suspicion arises as she uncovers unsettling circumstances surrounding his death and her mother’s peculiar behavior in a remote Quebec village. Producer Nicolas Comeau highlighted the film as a unique offering for Canadian cinema, boasting a “stellar international crew,” including editor Matthieu Laclau and sound mixer Stéphane Thiébaut.
“Thanks To the Hard work of the Elephants” – A Story of Rebellion
Directed by Bryce Hodgson, “Thanks To the Hard work of the Elephants” delves into the complexities of the “troubled teen industry.” The film follows two teenagers who escape a youth lockdown detention center and embark on a reckless adventure. Hodgson aims to portray the story with raw authenticity, capturing “rebellion, tenderness, disassociation, delusion and the unique and wild moments where kids find each other in the dark.”
Documentary Films
“We Will Not Be Silenced” – Voices Against Censorship
Catherine Hébert and Elric Robichon’s documentary, “We Will Not Be Silenced,” shines a light on the plight of writers facing censorship and persecution. The film follows Asli Erdoğan, Liao yiwu, Mona Kareem, and Tutul Chowdhury as they fight to maintain their voices in the face of oppression. The filmmakers underscore the ongoing threat to freedom of expression, stating that “the persecution of writers continues” globally.
“Lhasa” – A Portrait of a Musical Icon
Sophie Leblond’s “Lhasa” is a documentary tribute to the late musician Lhasa de Sela, celebrated in Quebec and Europe but lesser known in North America.the film will weave together interviews, songs, and diary excerpts to offer an intimate portrait of the artist’s life, career, and untimely death at age 37.Leblond envisions the film as a “world tour” for lhasa, bringing her artistry to a wider audience.
De Celles emphasized the challenges and rewards of this international collaboration, describing her cast and crew as a “creative family” extending beyond Quebec.
The First Look showcase represents a vital platform for these emerging and established filmmakers,fostering connections and generating excitement for Canadian cinema on the international stage.
