Photo: hotdocsfest on Instagram 

For any avid film buffs out there, the annual Canadian International Documentary Festival (more commonly known as Hot Docs) is set to return this spring. Hot Docs 2018 officially launches on April 26, and runs until May 6. The Toronto festival is celebrating its 25^th anniversary this year, and the celebratory mood has resulted in a look back in time as Hot Docs reflects on its success.

However, just like every year before, the festival is also welcoming a number of new screenings from around the world, including the Polish documentary The Beksinskis. A Sound and Picture Album. The 80 minute documentary details the career and life of Polish artist Zdzislaw Beksinski, who was known for his dystopian surrealism style.

Photo: hotdocsfest on Instagram 

Meanwhile, the event will also include an English and Tamil feature on London rapper and producer M.I.A (known as Mathangi Arulpragasam). Called MATANGI / MAYA / M.I.A., director Steve Loveridge’s film takes a deeper look at the rise of the Sri Lankan-born singer-songwriter, who is known for her activism and creativity.

For those who prefer sensitive tales of family, the Russian Ukrainian feature My Father Is My Mother’s Brother also makes a debut. Directed by Vadym Ilkov, the story of bohemian singer Tolik and his young niece, Katya, looks at a loving fatherly relationship in a tough situation.

With presentations happening at theatres and cinemas all over Toronto, Hot Docs involves everything from an intimate glimpse at creative souls to stories of global issues. If you want a break from your usual Netflix nights, it may be worthwhile to venture into the great outdoors and learn something new on the big screen.