Canada’s largest pan-Asian film festival returns to Toronto for its 28th year

The Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival is the largest of its kind in Canada, and for nearly three decades, it has stood as a vital showcase for Asian filmmakers.

Since its inception, the festival has been backed by a lengthy history of bringing together diverse voices, powerful stories, and a committed community of creators and audiences. 

Established in 1997 by Anita Lee—who is now TIFF’s chief programming officer—the festival emerged from the need for Asian representation and opportunity in Canadian cinema. Back then, Lee wanted to create a nurturing space in Toronto, inspired by the Asian-American film festivals she had experienced in cities like San Francisco and New York. 

Deanna Wong, the event’s executive director, along with artistic director Aram Collier, had much to say on the status of their beloved festival. 

“The motivation was rooted in building a community that fosters creativity, visibility, and dialogue, and ensuring that Asian experiences are authentically portrayed and valued,” Wong tells blogTO. “The festival [Reel Asian] has grown into this cultural hub. We’re advocating for equity and this transformative power of storytelling.” 

This year’s festival includes stunning works like The Glassworker, a decade-long passion project from Pakistan with exquisite hand-drawn animation, and Fresh Off Markham, which brings a bold, multi-genre view of Toronto’s suburbs to the screen.

The festival’s short film program also promises a range of daring, entertaining pieces like A Fermenting Woman, where Sook-Yin Lee plays a chef whose culinary adventures push boundaries.

“Years ago, we would have maybe 150 films to view, now we look through around 1500,” Collier says, adding that their process of choosing which films to feature, “is agonizing and harder than ever.”

Going on to their 28th year in business, while steadily increasing in popularity, the heart of Reel Asian’s longevity lies in its community. 

“Reel Asian has been a platform where filmmakers can get their start, and their continued support has been our foundation,” states Wong. “Many of those who launched their careers with us return as mentors, collaborators, and champions of the festival.” 

This community-centered approach has helped Reel Asian weather financial challenges that other film organizations in Toronto have struggled with. This comes at a time when major names like Hot Docs and the Revue Cinema have vocalized their ongoing financial troubles.

“We’re constantly adapting, looking for ways to stay sustainable and keep our programs alive,” says Wong. “The hope is that more recognition of the importance of the arts will help prioritize organizations like ours—festivals are what make this city vibrant, after all.”

One of the festival’s more popular programs is titled Unsung Voices, which empowers young Asian filmmakers to tell their stories. This year’s cohort will debut their films at the festival, an important milestone for these emerging talents.

Reel Asian also introduced the Fire Horse Award in honor of its 25th anniversary, backed by the Emmy-winning Canadian, Sandra Oh. The award recognizes groundbreaking Asian artists, including notable talents like Keith Lock, Mary Stephen, and Paul Wong.

If you can’t really find the time to head over to the festival, the organization will be making a selection of films available online across Canada, making it easier for a living room viewing. Whether you’re new to Reel Asian or a longtime supporter, the festival’s 28th year has a very promising lineup. 

Opening night will feature Sandra Oh’s latest role in the film Can I Get a Witness? will take place at the Hot Docs Theatre, with tickets costing $30.

There will be an Opening Night Gala Party at CSI Annex, at 720 Bathurst St., following the screening, which will be Pay-What-You-Can at the door.

Other movies range from free reservations to $18 per screening.

The Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival will take place on Nov. 13 until Nov. 24. Films screenings will take place at Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema (506 Bloor St W), Tiff Lightbox (350 King St W) , Annex Theatre (730 Bathurst St), and Innis Town Hall (2 Sussex Ave).