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.

This weekend,  Sway  opens in Toronto theatres, led by  Emmanuel Kabongo , a  Reelworld 2019 Trailblazer and longtime supporter of the organization . Sway  is a Canadian thriller that explores power, pressure, and personal consequence. Emmanuel stars in and produces the film, continuing a steady trajectory as a creator who is intentional about the stories he helps bring to screen. The film has screened at several festivals and now moves into its theatrical run in Toronto. Swa