Belleville Downtown DocFest 2025: The Organizers’ Inside Scoop
For 14 years, Belleville Downtown DocFest International Documentary Film Festival has been a cultural mainstay, bringing compelling documentary storytelling to the region. Running from February 21 to 23, this year’s festival offers a diverse lineup of thought-provoking films that celebrate local talent, foster community connections, and explore global perspectives. I chatted with Holly Dewar, Jodi Cooper and Noah Czernecki from the DocFest team to find out what they’re most excited about for the festival this year.
Written by Erika Szabo
Read time: 3 min
One of the most anticipated highlights this year is the Opening Gala event at the historic Empire Theatre. The Gala will feature the documentary Paul Anka: His Way, followed by a live performance by multi-platinum award-winning musician Ryan Malcolm. “The Gala evening is what brings people together,” says Holly Dewar, Festival Board Chair. “It’s truly a celebration of the media arts in the city.”
Saturday night offers another marquee event: a screening of The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal (Part 1: Looking for a Place to Happen) at The Belleville Theatre Guild, followed by an intimate Q&A session with filmmaker Mike Downie, brother of the late Gord Downie. “The Hip was such a big part of Canadian identity,” shares Dewar. This retrospective on the band’s legacy will undoubtedly resonate with the audience. Half of the proceeds will support the Community Development Council of Quinte’s food security programs, which aim to improve the quality of life in the community.
A core pillar of DocFest is its commitment to showcasing both emerging and established filmmakers. “Over the past 14 years, we really built that reputation within the filmmaker community,” says Jodi Cooper, DocFest Team Member.” Films like Atomic Reaction, Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story, Audio & the Alligator, and Hunger at Home highlight both local and global storytelling. “Local filmmakers often describe DocFest as Christmas for them,” Dewar adds, “It’s so rewarding to share their work.”
DocFest also prioritizes youth engagement through its free school screenings program. This year’s feature, Red Fever, examines cultural appropriation and Indigenous identity, providing Grade 7 and up students with an opportunity to engage with important social themes. Sponsored by Hawkins Cheezies and the Friends of the Library, the program reflects DocFest’s commitment to fostering curiosity and dialogue among young audiences.
Adding to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere is Savour the Chill, a beloved downtown event happening on Saturday, February 22. This soup-tasting competition among local restaurants complements the festival atmosphere, inviting attendees to explore Belleville’s growing downtown scene between screenings.
The festival’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. COVID-19 forced a temporary pivot to virtual programming, but this shift expanded DocFest’s audience beyond Belleville. “We discovered a global interest in what we’re doing,” says Cooper. “Now, as we return to fully in-person events, we’re combining the best of both worlds.” Noah Czernecki, Festival Coordinator, adds, “It’s incredible just how much of the community, both locally and internationally, is willing to share their work.”
The selection process remains a labour of love for the festival’s dedicated volunteers, who sift through hundreds of submissions each year. Cooper recalls stumbling upon unexpected gems like The Hobby: Tales from the Tabletop, a quirky exploration of board game culture. “I had no idea what I was sitting down to, but films like this are the little ray of sunshine.” It’s that element of surprise that keeps DocFest’s programming fresh and engaging.
For newcomers, pacing is key. “There’s so much to see,” advises Cooper. “I always recommend that people try to watch a balance of films because it can be a lot to digest. Finding that balance is really important.” Dewar adds, “Take advantage of the filmmaker Q&A sessions. It’s an opportunity that you don’t otherwise get to experience when seeing films.”
As Belleville Downtown DocFest continues to grow, its mission remains the same: to bring people together through the power of storytelling. Visit downtowndocfest.ca to purchase passes and learn more about the festival.
