Film festival season is in full swing, with major events like the San Diego LGBTQ+ Film Festival and the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) showcasing a wide array of films. San Diego's FilmOut festival features horror-themed screenings, local filmmakers, and collaborations with other festivals, highlighting a vibrant LGBTQ+ cinema scene. Meanwhile, TIFF is celebrating its 49th year with a record seven Manitoba-connected films, including features and shorts, marking a significant representation for the province. The festival attracts audiences and industry professionals alike, with indie films seeking distribution amidst a backdrop of recent market challenges due to strikes. In addition to TIFF, several upcoming film festivals across Ontario, including the Ottawa International Animation Festival and the Reel World Film Festival, promise diverse cinematic experiences in the coming months. Both festivals illustrate a robust ongoing interest in film, despite the lingering effects of the pandemic and industry disruptions.