Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Film Festival

Date(s): April 24 to May 4, 2025
Location: Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema

Every spring, Hot Docs Toronto showcases hundreds of films at the century-old Hot Docs Cinema in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood, which is part of the broader Bloor Street cultural district. Hot Docs International Documentary Film Festival got its start in 1993 thanks to a group of Canadian independent filmmakers who wanted to promote the excellent work being done not only by national documentarians but those from around the world.

Almost a quarter of a million viewers come for the conference sessions, screenings, and creative workshops, all of which run the gamut from engaging with emerging artists to international favourites like Bill Murray.

In years past, films like nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up, Prince’s Tale, and Susanne Bartsch: On Top have made a splash — and it will be exciting to see which documentary in 2025 is dubbed the best of the things to see at Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Film Festival.