The announcement of NXNE Film in 2015 seemed a little muted compared to previous years. There were only four films announced, when previously, there was at least 12.

In addition, the “centrepiece” film seemed appropriate, but less celebrated than last year’s main attraction of a film, Boyhood.

Though a full review will run next month upon the film’s theatrical release, but let’s just say this: on Saturday at 9:30, at the Bloor Hot Docs Cinema, a masterpiece will unspool. You will forget almost everything you think you know about Amy Winehouse. Submitting to Asif Kapedia’s spectacular film is a necessary and visceral experience.

But then there is also Made in Texas, a selection of 6 various late seventies early eighties shorts from Austin that really reveal a nascent film movement underfoot. The shorts vary in quality, but that’s not the point. The selection of films is produced by Jonathan Demme, who is about to release Ricki and the Flash in August, and the shorts are really at the intersection of film, music and experimentation. There will also be a discussion by SXSW and NXNE’s Louis Black, (not the one you are thinking) and it’s free to boot.

Another must-see film at the Festival, playing at the new hub at 170 Spadina Ave. on Sunday night is Diamond Tongues.

We covered the Pavan Moondi and Brian Robertson collaboration during our Slamdance preview, but the Canadian premiere of a Canadian film is a very big deal. This film is essential summer viewing, whether at NXNE, the TIFF Bell Lightbox in August, or the Open Roof Festival later this summer.

Lastly, Amálie Ravalec and Travis Collins present Industrial Soundtrack for the Urban Decay, that while under sixty minutes and gritty, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Festival.

Please see nxne.com for further details.