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

SHORT FILMS, BIG QUESTIONS 1:30 PM - 3:15 PM | Saturday, November 7, 2026 (Time includes a 30 minute community discussion after the film) Burnswest Theatre | The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland | 750 9 Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta FILM SYNOPSES: 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. CULTURE IN ACTION: This year marks the inaugural year of CJFF's Culture in Action initiative, filling The Confluence with art and performance for all three days of the festival. We invite you to arrive early and stay late to experience the full CJFF experience that brings justice stories to life. BE EARLY!: CJFF is entirely free, and so we open a few extra spots to make sure our seats are full. Registration does not guarantee a seat, so please arrive early. Seating is first come, first served. Find all films and times here: https://justicefilmfestival.ca/cjff-2026-films. FILM CONTENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: Given the nature of documentary film and CJFF's focus on justice and human rights, some films may contain disturbing, challenging, or sensitive content. CJFF films are presented without edits and are intended for mature audiences. Viewer discretion is advised. USE OF IMAGES ADVISORY: Photographs, video, and recordings will be taken by CJFF and the public throughout this event and published online. OFFICIAL HOTEL PARTNER: We are so grateful for our partnership with the Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown and the connected Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown. If you are coming into Calgary for CJFF 2026, or are planning a fun stay-cation, snooze well at a lovely hotel just a 15 minute walk, and 3 minute drive, from the doors of The Confluence! Room rates are available November 5th to November 8th, 2026. Explore the hotels' wonderful CJFF 2026 discounts by clicking HERE!