Belleville Downtown DocFest announces the Local Filmmaker Spotlight films for this year’s festival. These documentaries were selected from submissions by local filmmakers, and many feature stories and personalities from our community. Our local filmmaker spotlight films will play both in-person and online.You won’t want to miss The Local Filmmaker Awards on February 25th at 7:30 pm. Included with our finale film at The Empire.

Sponsoring this year’s Local Filmmaker Spotlight and the Loyalist College Student Documentary Event is the Bay of Quinte Regional Marketing Board.

Heroines in the Storm – The War at Home explores the war from the perspective of the women who stepped into the factory jobs left vacant by men who went to war, as well as those who volunteered, took part in Farmerette programs, played baseball and challenged men’s views of women and what they could do and what they were worth in society.

The Kilties Band of Belleville, Ontario, was one of Canada’s most popular international touring bands of its day. They performed in 20 countries, including appearing at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904 and giving two Royal Command Performances in Britain.

This film shares the story of one woman’s journey to learn Kanyen’keha, and the emotional process that was for her.

Dive into the enchanting world of Strings of Inspiration: A Portrait of Kris Tischbein, a captivating documentary that unravels the artistry and creative spirit of acclaimed bassist Kris Tischbein. He shares the secrets behind his unique sound, influenced by the evocative tones of cellos and other stringed instruments.

Hidden Heroes is a documentary that unveils the extraordinary contributions of unsung heroes who played a pivotal role in Canadian military operations. Featuring interviews with Canada’s top historians and never-before-seen footage, Hidden Heroes highlights the often-forgotten men & women who risk their lives behind the lines in the Canadian military – providing the lifesaving supports that led to victory on the battlegrounds of yesterday, and today.

A realtor, a lawyer, and a retired hockey player walk into a bar. That’s how our story starts, and it ends with them transforming a dive bar into a beautiful upscale pub. Join a group of Belleville locals as they take on more than they can chew during a worldwide pandemic in The Local.

Among her students is Susan, a vivacious woman battling stage four cancer. In Jean’s class, Susan finds not only a creative outlet but a source of strength and renewal. Her journey of resilience and joy amidst adversity becomes a central thread in the film, inspiring viewers with her infectious spirit and artistic journey. Brushes of Hope is a story about the power of art to heal, connect, and transform.

🎥FREE EVENT ALERT! 📢

Come see the incredible work of 2nd year Television, Filmmaking & Digital Content Creation students. Each film will be reviewed by a panel of local judges, all actively working in documentary filmmaking. The top 3 films will be included in DocFest 2024!This event will be held on Thursday, February 15th at Loyalist College. Doors open at 5:30 pm in Alumni Hall.

In-person festival passes will be available for sale at the event ($80 cash only), please join us for our annual Loyalist Student Documentary Screening event!

Early bird prices won’t be around forever. You can get a full in-person weekend pass for $80 right now. Prices will go up to $100 soon.