DIRECTOR'S STATEMENT

Welcome to the 23rd Female Eye Film Festival
It's not often FeFF dedicates a theme to the festival. The films submitted inform the shape of FeFF’s programs as do the people on the front line of the festival. This year the theme of "Resilience" spoke to us. Resilience is reflected in the Photo Exhibit, which we're delighted to bring back to kick-off the festival this year. It is the invisible thread linking the films we’re presenting from around the world. Resilience is in the zeitgeist. It carries weight and gives us pause. Resilience is quite possibly one of the most essential human qualities in times of strife and suffering. Here's to resilience!
I want to thank the Board of Directors, our tireless team, and all the volunteers for their dedication and commitment to FeFF’s vision. FeFF 2025 would not have been possible without the generous support of the Ontario Arts Council, I.A.T.S.E 873, Telefilm Canada, Ontario Creates, Actra Fraternal Benefits (AFBS), Sunbelt Rentals, CIUT 89.5fm and inkcanada. We thank them for their generous support, particularly in a period where many organizations have seen a retraction due to current turbulent times. And thank you to our community partners with whom we stand tall and proud, in solidarity.
Lastly, but certainly not least, I thank the artists - the filmmakers, screenwriters and photographers for their courage to create and for entrusting us with their work.
Upward and Onward!
Leslie Ann Coles (She/her),
Founder, Executive/Artistic Director, The Female Eye




