Film lovers, get ready—Belleville Downtown DocFest is back, and the full 2025 schedule is officially live. From February 21-23, this three-day documentary festival is bringing award-winning films, exclusive panels, and live music to venues across the city. Whether you’re into music bios, cultural deep dives, or hard-hitting investigative storytelling, there’s something for everyone.
🎶 Music & Pop Culture Docs
Step into the lives of legendary artists and cultural icons:
🎤 Paul Anka: His Way – The story of an Ottawa-born teen idol who helped define pop music.
🎸 Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal – A tribute to one of Canada’s most beloved bands.
🎷 Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story – The journey of a pioneering Black transgender soul singer in Toronto’s 60s music scene.
🔥 Catching Fire: The Story of Anita Pallenberg – A deep dive into the life of the fashion icon and Rolling Stones muse.
🎥 Stories That Matter
Powerful documentaries that challenge perspectives:
🖤 Black Box Diaries – A raw and groundbreaking look at journalist Shiori Ito’s battle for justice in Japan.
🐂 Singing Back the Buffalo – A stunning Indigenous-led film on the movement to restore the Great Plains buffalo.
✨ Special Events & Highlights
📽️ Free School Screening (Feb 21): Over 400 students will attend a screening of Red Fever with a virtual Q&A from the filmmakers.
🎶 Opening Gala (Feb 21 @ The Empire Theatre): Paul Anka: His Way followed by a live performance from Canadian Idol winner Ryan Malcolm.
🎤 Filmmaker Panel (Feb 22 @ 5 PM, Location TBD): Local filmmakers break down their creative process.
🎸 Tragically Hip Fundraiser (Feb 22 @ 7:30 PM, Pinnacle Playhouse): A screening of No Dress Rehearsal + a conversation with director Mike Downie (Gord Downie’s brother). Proceeds support the Community Development Council of Quinte.
🏆 Local Filmmaker Awards & Closing Film (Feb 23 @ 5 PM, Pinnacle Playhouse): Featuring a screening and filmmaker Q&A.
🎟️ How to Get Tickets
🎫 Early Bird Passes: On sale now!
🎫 Rush Tickets: $15 at the door (Gala & fundraiser event priced separately).
🎸 Hip Fundraiser Tickets: Available here.
Belleville’s DocFest is all about celebrating human stories—from global changemakers to homegrown talent. Don’t miss out on one of the city’s biggest cultural events!
