2023
AU CONTRAIRE
FILM FESTIVAL
Keith's Invitation
2023 WINNERS
Quebec Premieres
Now on Tour
AWARD WINNING FILM
DIRECTOR MICAH LEVIN
Dear Ani
A documentary about Keith, an aspiring songwriter, who for 20 years had a creatively obsessive correspondence with music icon Ani DiFranco. He believed her poersonal replies to him were encoded in her song lyrics. Dear Ani shares his unforgettable story of connection through music, art, and mania that questions what is true and what is fantasy.
DIRECTORIAL DEBUT BY
QUEENA LIU
Uproot
A film about a family’s silent struggles with mental health care in immigrant communities. In his forties, the director’s father was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and spent two years in and out of a psychiatric hospital. This film documents the director’s first time having an open and honest conversation with her family about his diagnosis that she never could as a child.
2023
Program
Join us for an unforgettable evening of inspiration and artistic exploration at the 11th annual edition of ACFF, taking place on August 21, 2023, at the Hilton Garden Inn Midtown.
- « Dear Ani » Québec Premiere: Immerse yourself in the extraordinary journey of Keith Wasserman in « Dear Ani, » a captivating exploration of music, art, and mania. Be among the first to experience this thought-provoking film.
- Québec Premieres: Discover compelling narratives, in person and on film, that shed light on various aspects of mental health.
- Stay engaged as Keith Wasserman and Micah Levin, along with other special guests, lead thought-provoking discussions following the screenings.
- Dessert Reception: Indulge in a delectable dessert reception on the Hilton Garden Inn terrace. Connect with like-minded individuals, filmmakers, and professionals while savouring scrumptious treats.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to support our cause and be part of an evening that celebrates art, storytelling, and the power of mental health awareness.
DIGITAL
2023 Digital Program
Introducing ACFF Digital: Empowering Minds, Inspiring Change.
Join ACFF in our mission to promote mental health awareness. Our digital festival engages audiences in Montreal, Quebec, and Canada, providing unparalleled perspectives on mental health issues.
Partner with us as we go beyond a one-time event. Together, we collaborate with corporations and community organizations, leveraging our film library to enhance their goals.
Choose screenings, tailored to your unique requirements. Ignite team discussions, support mental health initiatives in your workplace, or promote community education. With a customized program, we’ll help you achieve your objectives.
CHAMPIONS
MENTAL HEALTH CHAMPIONS
La Coupe
La Coupe Lumière, made of lacquered film strips and crafted by internationally known Quebecker Colin Schleeh, is an annual award of appreciation from the hundreds of organizations within the Montreal mental health continuum. It recognizes the valuable contribution made by an individual to ultimately alleviate the suffering of those that live with mental illness, through programs, policies, facilities and innovation.
La Coupe Lumière 2023 Recipient
Dr Amal Abdel-Baki is a Psychiatrist and the Head of Youth Mental Health Services at CHUM, as well as a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Montreal. She completed her medical and psychiatric training at Laval University and a master’s degree in biomedical sciences at the University of Montreal. Her research interests include early detection and intervention for psychosis in young people, non-pharmacological interventions for their recovery, and access to mental health care for vulnerable and marginalized youth. She has been the principal investigator for several research projects and has presented her work at various international conferences.
SPONSORS
2023
Diamond
Platinum
Gold
Silver
Patrons
ACFF Community Partners
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