Short Films, Big Questions @Calgary Justice Film Festival (CJFF)

To the Embers (Feu Fantôme): Seven years ago, the filmmaker was raped. Three years ago, the rapist wrote the filmmaker a letter to take responsibility for his actions. This film is their open letter to rape culture.

Do Not Stay Silent: In Escuintla, Guatemala, where 4 out of every 10 victims of sexual violence are children, Jennifer should have been just another statistic. But at 12 years old, Jennifer defended herself against an older man who attempted to rape her. Now at 16 years old, Jennifer embarks on a journey of finding her voice and advancing in her restoration as she works to form a community of restoration for other survivors of sexual violence in her community in Guatemala, helping other girls and women know that they are not alone, and that they must not stay quiet.

Adas Falasteen: This documentary tells the story of a Palestinian chef and his role in using his hobby as a shield against the famine caused by the war on Gaza, preserving the spirit of resilience and hope within his community.

Letters For Peace: “Stop killing us,” pleads Luiz Fernando, 14 years old, in his letter addressed to the Supreme Federal Court. In this film-letter, he and four other children living in favelas advocate for their right to play and study, revealing their dreams and fears amidst the violence of police operations in Rio de Janeiro. From the perspective of childhood, Letters For Peace discusses the state’s public security policies.