Celebrate National Canadian Film Day with Reelworld as staff share their top Canadian film picks, highlighting diverse voices, bold storytelling, and the power of cinema across the country.

Reelworld alumni earn major recognition at the 2026 Canadian Screen Awards, with nominations across film, television, documentary, and digital categories. See the full list of nominees and projects.

At Reelworld's 25th Anniversary Film Festival + Summit, producer, writer, and director Sheldon Shaw s topped by to share an alumni update — and reflect on the journey behind his latest documentary, Michelle Ross: Unknown Icon.

Emmanuel Kabongo, lead actor in "Sway" and Reelworld 2018 Trailblazer Reelworld:   Sway  has had an impressive journey. Can you take us back to how the project first began? Emmanuel Kabongo:  Like most films, it started with the script. I had a long-standing relationship with the writer, Charlie, who ended up co-directing the film with Zach Remelan. Before we went to camera, Charlie and I had a real conversation about trust and collaboration. We had known each other for years

Delve into the interpretation of Black life on screen through the art of image-making, with a focus on lighting, collaboration, and the power of the gaze. Focusing on the professional collaboration between cinematographers and gaffers, the discussion addresses practical lighting strategies, on-set workflows, and decision-making when lighting Black actors across a range of environments, and how these choices impact representation in contemporary screen production. Join us: Reg

Reelworld: Walking into Reelworld this year, what immediately stood out to you? Humberly González: I walked in and instantly people stopped me to say hello. That’s what I love about Toronto and our industry. You can show up anywhere and find someone who’s either seen your work or known you for a long time. It’s really special to walk into a space and realize you’ve created community, even when you’re not consciously thinking about it. I love that feeling.