The TJFF has been at the forefront of films exploring social issues, heart-wrenching drama and rich comedy for two decades. A major part of this success is- of course- the festival’s outstanding documentary program.

Documentary film is a unique medium. Through the lens we are swept to the centre of real-world experiences. They educate, engage and demand our attention. Language is no longer a barrier, and the images become a language of their own.

Over the year’s TJFF has brought us documentaries that have made us laugh and cry, and given us insight into the experience of individuals from around the world.

This year marks the fifth annual David A. Stein Memorial Award – fondly known as the “Tzimmie”. The award was named after a local documentarian who was taken long before his time but fondly remembered through his legacy at TJFF.

Each year, TJFF selects three respected industry professionals to participate as jurors, viewing all the docs making their Canadian Premiere at the Festival, and selecting the best one to receive this accolade.

This year’s jury are Jane Schoettle, International Programmer for the Toronto International Film Festival;  Jason Anderson, film critic and columnist;  and Sean Farnel, a consultant and one of the most respected names in documentary programming (TIFF, Hot Docs).

We’re really exciting to see the lineup of films presented at TJFF this year–and are wishing all the best to the documentarians. Break a leg!