Before I get into a much delayed recap of CIFF’s first experience at North America’s largest documentary film festival, I must apologize on the radio silence over the past month and a half. There’s been much going on here this spring including a new website (which is nearly ready to launch) and of course, lots of time in dark theatres at film fests looking for some quality stories….They ARE certainly out there and Hot Docs had their fair share!

So Hot Docs is one that I’ve been wanting to attend since research and dreaming began for CIFF back in 2004. The great thing about festivals is that they all have their own distinct feel. Sometimes by the end you’re ready to go home, others like Hot Docs you wish could continue on forever. There is something magical about an event the size of Hot Docs and its ability to make you feel completely comfortable. Other fests similar in size seem disjointed and unnavigable. Screenings and sessions are held in gorgeous facilities throughout several universities that even make Harvard Yard look unappealing. Then there is Toronto, one of my favorite cities from my touring days with my old band CONSTANTS.

Most importantly, Hot Docs is an event that allows for some serious networking between key industry leaders from all over the world. Programmers, distributors, filmmakers and broadcasters all come together, carving out conversations between screenings or panels outside in sun filled green spaces or at parties like the British Party thrown by Sheffield with a captivating dj spinning classics from Journey.

So thanks to Sean Farnel and the entire Hot Docs crew for providing one hell of a week…paradise found!

Here are a few trailer from some choice films we previewed…Enjoy and mark your calendar now for Hot Docs 2011. We’ll see you there!