AIFF this weekend

There are 33 outstanding documentaries being screened and waiting for viewers this weekend (Oct. 26 and 27), when the Antigonish International Film Festival (AIFF) starts.

Among those films are:

Sisters in Resistance — telling the story of four young women during Second World War who risked their lives to fight Nazi oppression and brutality in occupied France. Arrested by the Gestapo and placed in a concentration camp, they continued their resistance despite the danger involved.

In Whose Backyard? — which deals with environmental racism as members of Mi’kmaw and African Nova Scotian communities share their stories.

A Better Man — a Canadian film in which the director revisits an abusive relationship she had with a previous boyfriend more than 20 years ago. With the guidance of an abuse counsellor they discuss memories and share perceptions with the aim of achieving healing.

“Some of these films are in our region and province this one time, and will likely never appear here again. See them, because this is a great opportunity,” Elaine Maclean, from the AIFF film selection committee, said.

For selection committee member Larry Lamey there are “some real surprises” in this year’s lineup. He points To Berkeley in the Sixties as an example; “despite being made in 1990, it remains relevant today, dealing as it does with the anti-war movement in that time that transformed generations to follow. Not only did it take six years to make, by an Australian filmmaker, but it won awards and was nominated for an Oscar.”

Carole Roy, founding president of the AIFF, said, “At a time when chaos is daily news, it is inspiring to see the level-headed courage and creativity of individuals and communities committed to the common good.”

Festival passes, covering the two days are $20 each or just $5 each for students or the unwaged. For details of venues and film times at antigonishfilmfest.org.