Stories By Women, For Everyone

March brings International Women’s Day, so we’re taking a moment to highlight seven women filmmakers who are making a significant contribution to Canadian cinema. Many of these storytellers are right here on the East Coast! We’ve been lucky enough to screen many of their films at AIFF over the years. If you're looking for something to watch this month that celebrates women’s voices here are some suggestions from the team.

Director: Ashley McKenzie

Origin: Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
AIFF Official Selection(2022) - Queens of the Qing Dynasty(Available on CBC Gem)

If you live in Atlantic Canada, Ashley McKenzie’s work feels deeply familiar. Recognized as one of the region’s most acclaimed filmmakers, McKenzie has a very patient, observant way of looking at people on the margins. When Queens of the Qing Dynasty played at the festival after its Berlinale run, it was a great reminder of how distinctive and essential her voice is. The film won numerous awards at AIFF, including Best Director & Best Atlantic Feature.

Director: Sherry White

Origin: Newfoundland and Labrador
AIFF Official Selection(2025) - Blueberry Grunt

Sherry White is uniquely skilled at capturing the messy nature of relationships with refreshing realism. Blueberry Grunt picked up our ‘Best Atlantic Director’ award last year, and it’s easy to see why. She writes women who feel like people you actually know—flawed, funny, and completely authentic.

Director: Jacquelyn Mills

Origin: Montreal, Quebec
AIFF Official Selection(2017) - In the Waves

Jacquelyn Mills makes films that you don't just watch; you sink into them. In the Waves is a beautiful, visual poetry told through a Documentary lens. If you're drawn to stories that explore our connection to the natural world and the landscapes around us, her work is for you.

Director: Danis Goulet

Origin: La Ronge, Saskatchewan
AIFF Official Selection(2021) - Night Raiders(Available on CBC Gem)

Danis Goulet is an award-winning Cree-Métis writer and director whose distinctive voice has garnered international attention and has positioned her as one of the most exciting Indigenous talents in filmmaking today. Goulet's work is marked by its deep emotional resonance and striking visual style, often blending social commentary with genre storytelling. Lately, she’s been directing some of the best TV out there, including episodes of Reservation Dogs and North of North.

Director: Chloé Robichaud

Origin: Quebec
AIFF Official Selection(2023) - Days of Happiness (Available on Apple TV)

Chloé Robichaud is a standout in the Quebec film scene. Her rich, character-driven narratives offer thought-provoking cinema that delves deep into the human experience. Days of Happiness explores an emotionally complex narrative about a young female orchestra conductor at a crossroads.

Director: Kathleen Hepburn

Origin: Vancouver
AIFF Official Selection(2017) - Never Steady, Never Still (Available on Amazon Prime)

Kathleen Hepburn’s films ask you to slow down. Never Steady, Never Still is an intimate, heart-wrenching portrait that balances vulnerability with strength and resilience. Hepburn’s films are a testament to the power of storytelling that lingers long after the film ends.

Looking Ahead

These seven artists are just a glimpse into the incredible women shaping the films and shows we love today. This month, we encourage you to dive into their work and discover the diverse, bold perspectives driving our industry forward.

Stay tuned for more AIFF Film Recommendations all year long!

(Image sources: IMDb and official distributor materials)