Welcome to the world of the Pendance Film Festival, where storytelling takes centre stage and emerging filmmakers find their spotlight. Founded in August 2017 by longtime friends Rob and Andjelika over a leisurely afternoon coffee, Pendance has quickly joined the ranks of film festivals worldwide. What began as a humble gathering at Toronto’s Regent Theatre on a snowy December night has evolved into one of the fastest-growing and most revered festivals of independent cinema in the world. With each passing year, Pendance has not only expanded its reach but also cemented its reputation for curating compelling programmes and promoting the voices of storytellers from all corners of the globe.
Founding and Early Years
In the cozy ambiance of a coffee shop in August 2017, Rob and Andjelika laid the groundwork for what would soon become a beacon for independent filmmakers. Fuelled by their passion for cinema and a shared vision of fostering a filmmaker-first approach, the duo planted the seeds of Pendance during that fateful afternoon. Just a few months later, on a wintry December evening in 2017, the first edition of Pendance unfolded at Toronto’s Regent Theatre. Despite the snow-laden streets, the event attracted a robust audience of 420 attendees.
From its inception, Pendance distinguished itself with its unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices of emerging filmmakers and prioritizing storytelling above all else. Unlike traditional festivals swayed by star power or industry politics, Pendance embraced a refreshingly transparent approach to programming, where each film was evaluated solely on its narrative merit and ability to resonate with audiences. This ethos, encapsulated by the mantra “Story Over Everything,” set Pendance apart as a champion of artistic integrity in an often commercialized industry.
Expansion and Evolution
With each successive edition, the festival grew in both scope and ambition, solidifying its position as a dynamic force within the global film community. In its sophomore year, Pendance embarked on a transformative journey, extending its programming from a single night to a four-day extravaganza held at the Regent Theatre. This expansion not only allowed for a more extensive lineup of films but also paved the way for the inclusion of workshops, panels, and engaging discussions with industry luminaries. Despite facing the challenge of a blizzard, the festival persevered, drawing thousands of attendees who braved the elements to partake in the cinematic festivities.
Undeterred by adversity, Pendance continued to push boundaries in its third year, relocating to the bustling heart of downtown Toronto between the iconic TIFF Bell Lightbox and the esteemed Art Gallery of Ontario’s Jackman Hall Theatre. Here, against the backdrop of the city’s vibrant cultural landscape, Pendance blossomed into a multi-faceted event, featuring not only an eclectic array of films but also a diverse array of ancillary programs. From the Pendance Doctrina and Pendance Music to the Pendance Director’s Lab and electrifying after-parties, the festival offered a kaleidoscopic celebration of cinema in all its forms.
Recent Editions
The recent editions of Pendance have been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, as the festival continues to raise the bar for cinematic innovation and artistic expression. Building upon the foundation laid by its earlier successes, Pendance has curated an eclectic lineup of films that reflect the human experience while challenging conventional storytelling norms.
In 2021, Pendance showcased a diverse selection of feature films and short films, highlighting the work of emerging filmmakers from around the world. Among the standout offerings were films from Uruguay, Finland, Germany, Turkey, and beyond, each offering a unique perspective on the human condition. From the World Premiere feature to the Canadian feature and everything in between, Pendance embraced storytelling in all its myriad forms, ensuring that every voice was heard and every story was celebrated.
The short film program, a perennial favourite among attendees, boasted 44 films from 5 continents, featuring the work of Oscar-nominee Javier Fesser, Goya-winner Carlota Pereda, and Ghana’s emerging talent Anthony Nti, among others. In addition to the competition section, Pendance also showcased films from acclaimed directors such as Canadian actor Shaun Majumder, ‘Under Her Skin’ director Jonathan Glazer, and Vancouver’s Christie Will Wolf, underscoring the festival’s commitment to showcasing the breadth and depth of cinematic talent from around the world.
Beyond the screenings, Pendance also played host to a series of live and interactive workshops, panels, and Q&As with some of the top directors and film festival programmers in the world. From Canadian director Mark Raso to Colombian-American director Jonathan Cuartas, these sessions provided attendees with invaluable insights into the craft of filmmaking and the art of storytelling, fostering a sense of community and collaboration that lies at the heart of the Pendance experience.
As the festival continues to evolve and expand its reach, one thing remains constant: Pendance’s unwavering dedication to championing the next generation of storytellers and providing them with a platform to share their vision with the world.
Upcoming Festival
Looking ahead to the 7th Annual Pendance Film Festival, anticipation is high as cinephiles and filmmakers alike eagerly await another unforgettable cinematic experience. Scheduled to take place from February 22nd to February 25th, 2024, in downtown Toronto at the Imagine Cinema Carlton, this year’s edition promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
With over 40 incredible films slated for screening, attendees can expect a diverse lineup that spans genres, cultures, and perspectives. From thought-provoking dramas to gripping documentaries and avant-garde experimental films, the program promises something for every taste and sensibility.
Among the highly anticipated selections are Ararat by Engin Kundag, Pratfall by Alex Andre, Heleno by Mikel Arraiz, Skins by Jaiden Reese, and Death Grip by David Silset, to name just a few. These films, along with others like 5/3/0 by Danilo Stanimirović, Sauer Dogs by Guillermo de Oliveira, The Broken Space by Gabriel Alemán and Eduardo Eimil, Only Until Dawn by Eliza Godlewska and Alan Ruczyński, Maruja by Berta Garcia-Lacht, A Very Sick Man by Bronwen Spolsky, Julie Baby by Emily Grooms, Little Boy by Sophie Horry, and Pacho’s Visual Archive by Blanca Marcela Lopez, My Old Gals by Natasza Parzymies, are poised to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
But the excitement doesn’t end with the film screenings. The 7th Annual Pendance Film Festival will also feature a plethora of workshops, live events, and networking opportunities for filmmakers and guests. Whether you’re looking to hone your craft, connect with industry professionals, or simply immerse yourself in the magic of cinema, there’s something for everyone at Pendance.
Why Submit to Pendance
With its unwavering commitment to storytelling excellence and its reputation for championing emerging talent, Pendance offers filmmakers a unique opportunity to share their vision with the world. But what sets Pendance apart from other festivals?
Hands-On Selection Process
Unlike other festivals that rely on volunteer test screeners or multiple rounds of judging, Pendance programmers personally watch each film. This hands-on approach ensures that every film receives the attention it deserves.
Filmmaker Education
Pendance not only showcases top emerging filmmakers but also prioritizes filmmaker education. Through workshops, panels, and Q&As led by industry experts, Pendance provides filmmakers with invaluable insights into the craft of filmmaking and the business of cinema. Past workshop leaders have included acclaimed directors like Mark Raso, Barbara Vekaric, Ann Lupo, Peter Brunner, and Miljan Milovanovic.
Filmmaker-Friendly Environment
As filmmakers themselves, the organizers of Pendance understand the challenges and frustrations of getting your work seen. That’s why they work tirelessly to ensure that Pendance is not just hosted at top venues like the AGO and TIFF Bell Lightbox but also that these venues are packed to capacity. With Pendance, you can rest assured that your film will be showcased in front of a passionate and engaged audience.
Respected Reputation
Despite being a young festival, Pendance has quickly earned a solid reputation for programming great films. Thanks to its rigorous quality control standards, an official selection at Pendance can be leveraged to gain credibility with other festival programmers and industry professionals. Whether you’re a first-time filmmaker or a seasoned veteran, having your film selected for Pendance is a badge of honour that speaks volumes about the quality of your work.
Awards and Prizes
One of the most exciting aspects of participating in the Pendance Film Festival is the opportunity to vie for prestigious awards and prizes. These accolades not only recognize the outstanding achievements of filmmakers but also provide valuable recognition and exposure within the industry. Here are the awards and prizes that filmmakers can compete for at Pendance:
Best Picture: This coveted award is presented to the film deemed the best feature film of the festival. Selected by a panel of esteemed jurors, the winning film receives recognition for its exceptional storytelling, artistic merit, and overall impact.
Best Short Film: Similar to the Best Picture award, this prize honours the top short film of the festival. Short films under 40 minutes in length are eligible for consideration, with the winning entry distinguished for its creativity, craftsmanship, and emotional resonance.
Best Director: Recognizing the vision and leadership of filmmakers, this award celebrates the director whose skillful direction has contributed to the success of their film. Whether guiding a feature-length narrative or a short cinematic gem, the winning director is lauded for their ability to bring a compelling story to life on the screen.
Best Canadian Short Film: As a nod to homegrown talent, this award honours the best short film created by Canadian filmmakers. From coast to coast, Canadian storytellers showcase their unique perspectives and voices, with the winning film earning recognition for its contribution to the country’s vibrant film landscape.
For filmmakers, winning an award at Pendance can open doors to new opportunities, garnering attention from industry professionals and audiences alike.
Wrapping Up
Through its commitment to artistic integrity, filmmaker education, and fostering a welcoming environment, Pendance has become a beacon in the global film community. From the screenings to the workshops, the discussions to the awards, Pendance promises to be an unforgettable celebration of creativity, innovation, and the enduring magic of cinema.