Watch inspiring cinema in Victoria this February

In 2019, Martin Scorsese made a controversial statement that superhero films are not “cinema.” This made a lot of people very angry, and was probably wrong - there’s a lot of talent and innovation behind the best superhero movies! On the other hand, there’s truth to what he was saying. True cinema needs to provoke, to search, to innovate. Real cinema finds new ways to move people, to say what hasn’t been said before. This kind of cinema, the kind that is true art, doesn’t always make its way to the multiplexes. That’s why its so important to support these films when they're showing in town. Fortunately, there’s no better place to do that than at the Victoria Film Festival!
 

THE VICTORIA FILM FESTIVAL

Established in 1967, The Victoria Film Festival has been around for over half a century making it one of the oldest Canadian film festivals! That kind of longevity requires the support of a community and Victoria has that in spades. Each year the Film Festival showcases the very finest of international and homegrown films, providing a rich cinematic experience not commonly available at the average cineplex. Carefully hand-picked to reflect current issues and interests, the final selections for the Victoria Film Festival are always fascinating, provocative, and sometimes weird and wonderful!

This year the festival will take place from February 7-16. One notable showing to watch out for is Twentieth Century, the debut feature from Canadian writer and director Matthew Rankin. This is a fictionalized depiction of William Lyon Mackenzie King before he became Prime Minister. Twentieth Century is anything but a staid costume drama – it pays homage to the best of Guy Maddin and Terry Gilliam, transforming this quintessentially Canadian tale into a surrealist dramedy for the ages!

When staying in Victoria, you can experience the best the city has to offer through its' historic landmarks, shopping destinations, local restaurants, cultural events such as the Victoria Film Festival and fine accomodations courtesy of the Best Western Carlton Plaza Hotel. Located steps away from Victoria’s scenic downtown harbour, we’re your portal to BC’s capital! Find relaxation and comfort in our well-appointed rooms and suites, while enjoying hotel guest amenities such as complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, fitness centre, 24-hour front desk, guest laundry and dry cleaning services and much more. Don't wait to book your stay today!