Sudbury’s International Film Festival using hybrid model again this year | CBC News

“One thing that we learned last year, as we planned our first hybrid event, was that it presented us with new opportunities to expand our lineup, attract new independent films and create new great dialogues with filmmakers that we could handle virtually,” said managing director Patrick O’Hearn.

“With the pandemic still ongoing, it’s important that we’re bringing people the same kind of quality of films, and the same number. We’re giving people access,” he said.

Cinéfest was only able to show 27 films in person in 2020, but that number expanded to 60 this year. 

The Toronto International Film Festival announced on Monday it would require all attendees to submit proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test before entering associated venues. O’Hearn said Cinéfest will not follow that lead at this time.

“At this moment, we’re not requiring double vaccination, but we’re ready to pivot,” he said. “So right now, we’re following statutory guidelines from the government.”

However, all Cinéfest staff and volunteers will be double vaccinated against COVID-19. 

Festival highlights

As for highlights, O’Hearn said the Friday night gala Lakewood will be one to look out for. The film was shot in North Bay and stars Oscar nominee Naomi Watts as a mother who races against time to save her child as authorities pursue an active shooter in her small town.

O’Hearn said he is also excited about the Spanish film Official Competition, which stars Penélope Cruz and Antonio Banderas. The Monday night gala film is about a billionaire businessman who decides to make a movie to leave his mark on the world.

Cinéfest Sudbury runs Sept. 18 to 26. The in-person films will be shown at the Cineplex Theatre on BarryDowne Road.