Students from Bluenose Academy watching a documentary as part of the 2022 Lunenburg Doc Fest. Photo: Lunenburg Doc Fest.
Lunenburg Doc Fest Marks a Decade of Documentary Excellence
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia – A decade of cinematic brilliance, community unity, and worldwide influence – Lunenburg Doc Fest joyously celebrates its 10th anniversary in the picturesque UNESCO-designated town of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. The festival is excited to present an exceptional lineup of documentaries for its 2023 edition.
Prepare for an extraordinary cinematic journey as the 10th anniversary festivities commence on Thursday, September 21, with the premiere of “Carlos.” This captivating documentary traces the remarkable path of Carlos Santana, from a 14-year-old street musician to a 10-time Grammy-winning global sensation. Featuring unseen archival footage and tracks, this film is a must-see for music aficionados. Following the screening, the festival’s much-anticipated annual event, the Paint the Town Red Gala, will take place on Lunenburg’s scenic waterfront.
Closing the 10th annual edition on Wednesday, September 27, the festival will delve into the history of The Rolling Stones and the often-overlooked legacy of bandmate Brian Jones, offering a fresh perspective on the history of rock ‘n’ roll in “The Stones And Brian Jones.”
“As we celebrate our tenth anniversary, there’s truly no better place to be than the beautiful UNESCO town of Lunenburg in late September, especially if you are passionate about documentary films,” says Pamela Segger, Executive Director of Lunenburg Doc Fest. “In our tenth year, we proudly stand as a landmark event on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, offering an extraordinary lineup of documentaries and celebrations – something for everyone.”
For a decade, Lunenburg Doc Fest has been a beacon of cultural enrichment, a driving force for the screen industry, and a cherished experience for audiences far and wide. This year’s festivities promise to deliver remarkable cinematic journeys, engaging conversations, and thought-provoking documentaries from Atlantic Canada and beyond. These stories will transport you and linger in your heart and mind long after the credits roll.
The carefully curated collection of documentaries delves deep into pressing social issues and inspiring activism. “Against The Tide” confronts the impact of climate change on traditional fishing methods, advocating for sustainable practices and environmental consciousness. “Boil Alert” uncovers the water crisis in Indigenous communities, addressing its repercussions on Indigenous identity and the need for clean water and cultural preservation. “What (A) Wonderful World?” examines systemic racism and offers potential solutions, providing hope and a call to action for a more inclusive world. “Four Daughters” profiles a Tunisian mother of four and the dramatic turn when her two eldest daughters disappear, leading to an intimate journey full of hope, rebellion, violence, intergenerational trauma, and sisterhood. Through haunting diaries and firsthand Israeli military images, “Innocence” portrays the inner turmoil of children who resist enlistment, stories silenced by the nation. Co-presented by the Global Peace Film Festival in Winter Park, “Sew To Say” profiles an 80-year-old artist who shares the untold stories of the longest feminist protest in British history, where women protested nuclear weapons deployment, a collective action that changed many lives.
The following documentaries offer unique perspectives on life’s complexities and the strength of the human spirit. “Is There Anybody Out There?” follows the filmmaker’s quest to connect with individuals who share a rare disability, shedding light on ableism and advocating for greater understanding and inclusion. Inspired by the filmmaker’s aunt, “Black Barbie: A Documentary” uncovers the origin of the first Black Barbie. “After Work,” shot in the United States, Italy, South Korea, and Kuwait, examines the notion of work in the 21st century, considering what the future could be like in a work-free society. “Sister U?na Lived A Good Death” documents Sister U?na’s poignant journey in her final months, exploring themes of mortality and the art of letting go.
Each of the following documentaries offers a unique perspective on life’s complexities and the strength of the human spirit. See the courage and innocence of LGBTQIA2S+ teens in “Summer Qamp” as they embark on a life-changing camp experience, highlighting the importance of acceptance and self-discovery. “Confessions Of A Good Samaritan” follows director Penny Lane’s journey to altruism, donating a kidney to a stranger, unfolding an intimate and unexpectedly funny and emotional exploration of the nature of kindness. “The Eternal Memory” examines Alzheimer’s disease and a couple facing the challenge head-on as they rely on the affection and humor shared between them that remains remarkably intact. In “The Gullspa?ng Miracle,” a divine premonition leads to a surprising family reunion in a small Swedish town, but soon the lives of three sisters spiral out of control, revealing unexpected twists and turns. “Unsyncable,” by Nova Scotia’s own Megan Wennberg, celebrates senior synchronized swimmers challenging stereotypes and showcasing their resilience in the face of ageism.
Explore the wonders of the natural world and environmental challenges with “Deep Rising,” which delves into the environmental challenges of deep-sea metal extraction, shedding light on the urgent need for sustainable practices in our oceans. “Between The Rains” probes the impact of climate change on a drought-stricken culture in Kenya, offering a poignant glimpse into the consequences of a changing climate.
Immerse yourself in the world of music and artistic expression with the following documentaries. “Rooted,” which follows Dylan Jewers on a captivating journey to discover and preserve Nova Scotian roots music, showcases the power of music in connecting generations and cultures. “Ride The Wave” profiles a young surfer’s thrilling journey to conquer dangerous cold-water waves, celebrating the indomitable spirit of adventure and nature’s beauty. Both films are part of Lunenburg Doc Fest’s free pre-festival “Docs on the Dock” film series for community members. “Joan Baez: I Am A Noise,” an intimate portrait of folk singer and activist Joan Baez and her profound impact on music and civil rights, will complete the series on Monday, September 11, at 8pm at Zwicker Wharf in Lunenburg.
Five short documentary film programs will ignite curiosity and transport you. Embark on a voyage to the captivating realms of “Atlantic Living” and the beauty, mysteries, and stories woven by the Atlantic Ocean. Immerse yourself in a rich weave of Atlantic Canadian culture with “Artfully Atlantic Canadian” and the creative essence of our unique region. Uncover profound connections that bind us in “Symbiotic Souls,” revealing how even in the most unexpected places the threads of shared humanity lace intricate bonds of unity. Capture heartwarming stories of connection and camaraderie in “Tales Of Togetherness.” This special presentation was curated with the Grade 7-9 students of Bluenose Academy in mind, yet it is open free-admission to everyone. Finally, experience the depth and diversity of Indigenous perspectives in “Through Our Lens,” which sheds light on the rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures, stories, and enduring connections to the land.
The highly anticipated Dock Market conference runs concurrently with the festival in a hybrid format and offers a platform for industry professionals and documentary enthusiasts to engage in career-boosting discussions and networking opportunities. LDF’s 8th The Dock Market conference and 1-to-1 meetings are unparalleled opportunities for guest filmmakers and screen industry Decision Makers to expand their networks, develop new business opportunities, and advance projects. Select sessions include a panel on “Navigating Distribution,” “On Deck” round tables,
