Ashley Duong’s Ba’s Book, Reel Asian’s opening night film, begins with her father’s memoir and unfolds with the process of recreating her family’s history of war, displacement, and migration from Vietnam. Duong will unpack the creative choices behind the film — from form and performance to image and editing — and how each became a way of making space for her family while finding authenticity in the process of telling their story.

THURS, NOV 12 AT 2PM

Drawing on the Disability Screen Office’s newly launched Reframing Access: A Best Practices Guide on Disability Inclusion in Canada’s Screen Industry, this conversation will explore how filmmakers can establish inclusive accessibility practices across all stages of production and beyond.

TUES, NOV 17 at 6:30PM

Writers from Reel Asian’s TV Writing Program bring their original series to the table for a live reading of selected scenes, presented in collaboration with ACTRA Toronto. Professional actors will bring the characters and stories to life, followed by a reception with the writers, performers, and industry guests.

THURS, NOV 19 at 7:30PM

Celebrating 20 years of Reel Asian’s pitch competition, five finalist filmmakers will take the stage to pitch their projects to a live jury and audience. One will win a prize package designed to help bring their short film to life, including a cash award, in-kind studio packages, and the opportunity to screen the completed film at the 31st edition of the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

SAT, Nov 21 at 7PM