Sunday, March 2
Baby Grand
4:00 pm
I am thrilled to present the projects of the second cohort of the 18mm program at this special edition of our festival, marking its 25th anniversary. This year, we accepted more participants than last year, with 12 young filmmakers receiving fully funded spots in the program, covering the costs of their studies and providing in-kind grants for filming their projects. The result is a collection of 11 films showcasing a wide range of subjects and genres, including fiction, experimental, and mockumentary. From horror, comedy, and fantasy to queer and social drama, the films explore themes of self-discovery, friendship, tolerance, and mental health, among other topics.
I encourage you to join us in celebrating this incredibly talented group as they premiere their films at KCFF 2025. The filmmakers will be in attendance and are excited to discuss their work with you during the Q&A session following the screening. I hope to see you there!
– Ahmed Ismaiel Nour
ONE NIGHT ONLY
Director: Conlan Sleeth
During his stand-up comedy routine, comedian Cal is reminded of a musician he met a year prior and the complicated feelings he developed towards him. He is forced to reevaluate their relationship and his regrets on stage while trying to maintain his comedic demeanor.
TRIALS OF THE SOUL
Director: Seb Heil
In present day, the people in dead actor Colin Crystal’s life talk about his film career and how he is one of the most inspirational actors in this generation, but he had a dark secret that no one knew.
SKATE
Director: Keva Seitz
Two beginner skaters challenge each other to a game of S.K.A.T.E. while trying to impress the other, but both have no idea what they’re doing.
VALUE
Director: Janevra Pier
Isabelle is a practical teenage girl whose confidence in her realistic decisions is called into question when Jack’s free-spirited older brother returns home from a so-called “ascetic pilgrimage.”
WHISPERS IN THE WOODS
Director: Rane Gibbs
Three girls venture into a forest to investigate mysterious occurrences. Only to encounter forces that blur the line between reality and the supernatural.
STILL HERE
Director: Naomi Owen
A young man faces the reality of his actions mere hours before he uproots his life and leaves his familiar world behind forever.
THE VIOLINIST
Director: Lucie Poirier
Aria is a talented violinist striving for perfection in the wake of her upcoming solo. But when these standards begin to take a toll on her, she must ultimately compromise her values in order to give the performance she desires.
THE POMEGRANATE
Director: Linden Pier
A simple young woman opens an unmarked package, to be met with disappointment and later on grief. Will she be able to shed the guilt or will it follow her for the rest of her life?
LEFT ASHORE
Directors: Maleah Gomez, Daphne Raymond
As a woeful teen girl wanders through the trails of a lively park, she is paid an unexpected visit by her friend.
BEYOND THE CALCULATIONS
Director: Filia Toblo
After a quarrel in the bathroom, struggling student Honoré and diligent Grace reconcile, discovering the power of empathy and the beginnings of a heartfelt friendship.
LAST STOP
Director: Saif Amer
At a lonely bus stop, a conversation sparks between a confused traveller and a helpful guide.
Thank you to Diane Blake and Stephen Smith, Lead Sponsors of the 18 MM Program.
PRESENTED WITH ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FROM
Thank you to the Department of Film & Media at Queen’s University for providing equipment for the 18 MM Program.