TORONTO — The Female Eye Film Festival (FeFF), Toronto’s acclaimed showcase of women filmmakers, marks its 23rd edition from October 14–19, 2025, bringing six days of films, panels, and industry events to the TIFF Lightbox and venues across the GTA.
This year’s theme, “RESILIENCE,” captures the power and perseverance of women storytellers navigating an evolving world. Founded on the motto “Always Honest, Not Always Pretty,” FeFF continues its legacy of highlighting authentic, diverse, and global perspectives from women behind the camera.
“At a time of global suffering, Female Eye reminds us there’s hope and strength,” said festival organizers. “Resilience is about creative endurance — and the women in our lineup embody that spirit through every story they tell.”
A Global Celebration of Women in Film
FeFF 2025 will feature over 70 films from Canada, the U.S., Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, France, Cuba, Nepal, Syria, Taiwan, and beyond, spanning documentary, narrative, animation, experimental, and short formats. Screenings will be followed by audience Q&As, offering attendees a deeper connection to the creative voices behind each project.
The festival opens with a Photo Exhibition and VIP Reception at the Women’s Art Association of Canada (23 Prince Arthur Avenue, Toronto) on October 14 from 6–11 p.m. (Tickets: $20; Flex Pass: $80).
Industry Events & Highlights
FeFF’s lineup includes signature programs and special tributes celebrating women’s achievements in the screen industry:
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Opening Gala Feature: “Blueberry Grunt” — directed by Sherry White (Pretty Hard Cases, Maudie), starring Joel Thomas Hynes, Liisa Repo-Martell, and Percy Hynes White. (Oct. 15, 6 p.m., TIFF Lightbox)
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“Best in the Biz” Maverick Tribute: Honouring Jennifer Podemski (The Rez, Little Bird) for her trailblazing work amplifying Indigenous stories on screen. (Oct. 16, 3–4:30 p.m., TIFF Lightbox; Tickets: $20)
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Children’s Film Program: In partnership with Enchanted Hope Foundation, this inaugural program offers a magical cinematic experience for children with serious illnesses, including award-winning films, door prizes, and giveaways. (Oct. 17, 6–8 p.m., City Playhouse, Thornhill; Tickets: $20)
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Late-Night “Thrills & Chills” Series: A fan-favourite selection of horror, suspense, and thriller films — proving, as FeFF notes, “women do it better.” (Oct. 17–18, TIFF Lightbox)
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Closing Gala Feature: “I Really Love My Husband” directed by GG Hawkins, starring Madison Lanesey, Arta Gee, and Travis Quentin Young. (Oct. 19, 6:15 p.m., TIFF Lightbox)
FeFF’s Script Reading Series, Live Pitch Competition (with a $1,500 cash prize), and networking opportunities will round out the week, offering emerging filmmakers direct access to industry mentorship and exposure.
“Thank you to FeFF. I am humbled by this very generous acknowledgment,” said Jennifer Podemski in a statement. “In true Maverick form, I promise to walk authentically in my truth in pursuit of equity and inclusion for Indigenous women in the screen sector — even if it means breaking the rules and burning bridges.”
A Platform for Emerging Talent
Recognized by the Canadian Academy of Cinema and Television and a Telefilm Canada Talent Partner to Watch, FeFF continues to champion underrepresented voices. The festival also announced that The Writers Lab Canada, produced in partnership with TWL (NYC), Firecracker Department, and FeFF, will return for its second year in February 2026.
FeFF’s community partners and sponsors include the Ontario Arts Council, IATSE 873, Telefilm Canada, Ontario Creates, ACTRA Fraternal Benefit Society (AFBS), Tourism Vaughan, Paramount+, and CIUT 89.5FM, among others.
Ticketing & Venue Details
🎬 TIFF Lightbox (Oct. 15–19)
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Tickets: $20
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Gala Features: $25
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Flex Pass: $80
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Best in the Biz Maverick Tribute: $20
🎥 City Playhouse (Thornhill – Oct. 17)
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Children’s Film Program: $20
For full schedule details and tickets, visit TheFemaleEyeFilmFestival.com or follow @FemaleEye on Instagram, Facebook, and X.
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