Jess Blackwell –
Films and TV series are more than entertainment: They’re critical to the preservation, representation and shaping of local culture, serving as a mirror that reflects the values and daily lives of our communities.
Films are also powerful tools for challenging stereotypes and making society more inclusive and welcoming. Presenting diverse perspectives can foster empathy and encourage communication among groups. This can ultimately inspire dialogue and action, driving much-needed social change.
Local films give artists a chance to have their voices heard — even when their message may not align with mainstream interests. Were it not for the indie filmmaking scene, countless artists’ stories would remain untold, overlooked by decision-makers devoted to commercial appeal and profitability.
For Toronto, sharing local stories in film is an opportunity to shape perceptions of what our city’s about while fostering a sense of place and identity among our diverse communities. Films set in Toronto can connect viewers with specific neighbourhoods, landmarks and cultural traditions, strengthening a sense of belonging and pride among residents while sparking tourism.
Yet few films that are shot in Toronto are placed here. Whether it’s Guillermo del Toro’s The Shape of Water (2017) or the popular series Suits (2011– 2019), Toronto typically serves as a stand-in for other cities.
So what can we do to encourage local filmmakers to set more projects in our own city? Ashleigh Rains, director and head programmer at the Canadian Film Festival, says that “empowering local filmmakers to tell stories explicitly set in Toronto starts with ensuring they have access to the support and resources needed to realize those stories…
“Funders, programmers, and distributors have a role to play in amplifying these voices, but so do audiences. If you want more Toronto stories, go see Canadian films in theatres, especially the ones set here. Attend festivals. Tell your friends. Engage on social [media]. That kind of support can make the difference for a filmmaker’s career, and help set them up to tell their next Toronto story.”
Toronto hosts a variety of film festivals throughout the year. In addition to the Canadian Film Festival, these include the Reelworld Film Festival + Summit, Regent Park Film Festival, and Blood in the Snow Film Festival. Tonya Williams, executive director and founder of the Reelworld Screen Institute, points out that these festivals are often the only way to see much of the great Canadian content we create. They also serve as a “platform for many of our Toronto filmmakers to see their films up on a big screen and to have their friends, family and crews come and see the film,” she says.
These festivals are full of exciting Toronto stories. For example, the 2025 Canadian Film Festival featured the Toronto premiere of Naomi Jaye’s Darkest Miriam, which Rains describes as “a visually stunning and poetic portrayal of life in Toronto.” In past years, the festival has opened with films such as Doubles (20223) by Ian Harnarine, “a film rooted in Trinidadian culture and experiences in Toronto,” and Tehranto (2022) by Faran Moradi, “which explored a love story from two divided Persian communities,” says Rains.
Reelworld has also screened impactful films such as Farewell Regent (2019) by Christene Browne, a documentary showcasing the changing Regent Park neighbourhood.
Local theatres also sometimes showcase Canadian content. For example, Patricia Bebia’s The Life Coach (2025) just finished a limited theatrical release in several provinces. This film, set in Toronto, “shines a light on mental health, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to embrace authenticity,” says Bebia.
Canadian content is also available year-round on streaming platforms such as CBC Gem and Bell Fibe TV1, while Netflix has a section dedicated to Canadian movies and TV series.
So the next time you’re searching for a movie to watch or heading out to a cinema, consider watching a film set in Toronto — a simple action to preserve and enrich our culture while supporting local artists.
