Hot Docs at HomeStay connected with these uplifting docs and enjoy ‘dinner & a movie’ ideas courtesy of our partners at Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants

We’ve collaborated with our partners at the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival to round up films that make us feel connected and reassured and remind us of all the wonderful and enriching parts of the human experience that will endure.

Hand picked by Hot Docs staff, these favourites from the Hot Docs Collection are easily accessible through various streaming and on-demand platforms such as CBC Gem, Crave, and Netflix.

Paired with each film is a recipe from Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants and canadas100best.com to make from the comfort of your home.

We hope they’ll bring you as much joy as they do us.

Presenting Platinum Partner

Scotiabank is proud to be the founding partner of Docs for Schools – thoughtful documentary programming that offers students an opportunity to engage with current issues, raise critical questions, and interact with new perspectives, outside of traditional media or classroom perspectives.

As school is out, or more precisely moved into the home, Docs for Schools program is pleased to curate a variety of free, online documentary films for the whole family to watch together. The selected films will show our world in inspiring and informative ways.

Check out the films here at Docs for Schools at Home.

MADE YOU LOOK: A TRUE STORY ABOUT FAKE ART

World Premiere: April 16 8:00pm CBC and CBC GEM

Established in 1846, New York City’s Knoedler & Company was one of the most respected art galleries in the USA, selling masterpieces by the world’s most sought-after artists. By 2011, that reputation was severely tarnished and the establishment in ruins.

Rumours and accusations surrounding Knoedler’s transactions of fraudulent modern artwork decimated the gallery and its high-profile president Ann Freedman.

Millionaires keen to build their prestigious personal collections instead ended up with impressive forgeries imitating Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock and Robert Motherwell, all painted by one man in a Queens garage.

The abstract masterpieces at the centre of this controversy are merely commodities to be acquired and traded by an elitist culture ripe for exploitation.

The elaborate con artist scheme and the outrage that followed makes for an entertaining true crime drama, where everyone is willing to share their side of the story, but no one takes responsibility for their actions.

Visit Hot Docs at Home on CBC for more titles and premiere dates.

Watch Hot Docs at Home on CBC for front-row access to the digital premieres of select documentary titles from the 2020 Hot Docs Festival.

Films will air Thursday evenings starting April 16.

Hot Docs Festival-at-home experience

ON

Watch on Netflix

THE BIGGEST LITTLE FARM

When the barking of their beloved dog leads to an eviction notice from their tiny LA apartment, John and Molly Chester make a choice most of us only dream of, trading in the city hustle to live in harmony with the land. But the couple’s naïve ambition of building a sustainable farm takes a series of wild turns as they come to realize that to survive, they will have to reach a deeper understanding of the intricacies of nature, and of life itself. Filled with breathtaking images of plants and animals, The Biggest Little Farm is an inspiring ode to uncompromising idealism and a beautiful homage to the natural world.

For my fellow nature lovers out there, this portrait of a couple who pursue their dreams of owning a farm is a ray of sunshine—and a reminder that life always finds a way.

Jessica Gyll Programming Manager, Hot Docs

Pair with John Morris’ Roasted Beet and Heirloom Carrot Salad

Watch on Crave

CALIFORNIA TYPEWRITER

Is there a more romantic image of a writer than that of someone hunched over their typewriter passionately working away, the clicks and dings sounding off as they go? Discover extensive collections of trusty typewriters, all carefully selected by brand and generation, curated by those who are not so quick to shrug off old technology. Many artists and writers who still swear by the machine—among them Tom Hanks, John Mayer and the late Sam Shepard—share their thoughts on its value as a tool and source of inspiration. California Typewriter also looks at one of the last surviving typewriter repair shops, run by a man determined to keep the tradition alive.

Something about Tom Hanks makes me feel like everything is going to be okay. His love letter to the typewriter is a gorgeous meditation on creativity and analog communication. Its also an opportunity to pause and take pleasure in the simple things we normally take for granted.

Alan Black Managing Director, Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema

Pair with Miss Thing’s restaurant’s The Oldest Fashioned cocktail

Watch on Crave or Netflix

HIP HOP EVOLUTION

There’s no doubt hip-hop dominates popular music culture today. Its influences are far-reaching and its performers international superstars. How did this New York house party experiment evolve into one of the most dominant sounds in music? The Banger Films team brings a powerhouse of a film starring hip-hop legends and pioneers to trace the genre’s evolution. Acclaimed Canadian rapper Shad acts as our informed and enthusiastic guide, travelling to the Bronx and Harlem to talk with hip-hop’s originators and biggest stars—Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa and Grandmaster Flash, among many others—tracing the music’s development and influences from the underground to the global phenomenon it is today. Fascinating and sometimes surprising, full of music and archival film, Hip-Hop Evolution goes beyond the hype to place hip-hop in the canon of musical history.

Join famous fans like Dwayne Johnson and treat yourself to this Toronto-produced, Emmy-winning masterclass of a series for a dose of mood-boosting inspiration and education—oh, and a killer soundtrack too.

Sarah Li-Lun MacArthur

Programming Coordinator, Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema

Pair with The Chase Caesar

Watch on Crave

ECHO IN THE CANYON

Travel back to Los Angeles’ Laurel Canyon in the mid-60s to a pivotal music scene moment and the influential emergence of folk rock. From The Byrds, to The Beach Boys, to Buffalo Springfield and The Mamas and the Papas, these iconic bands were inspired by The Beatles and then went on to in turn inspire The Beatles—as well as future generations of musicians. Guided by Jakob Dylan, Echo in the Canyon captures this moment of unparalleled creativity and collaboration and features musical performances and original interviews with David Crosby, Norah Jones, Cat Power, Ringo Starr, Eric Clapton and more.

From The Byrds to the Beach Boys, countless musicians would not have existed were it not for Laurel Canyon’s thriving music scene. Not only is this film a reminder of the strength of art and community, it’s an excellent sing-along antidote to these days of isolation.

Robin Smith, Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema Programmer

Pair with Lynn Crawford’s Dad’s Meat Loaf with Onion Gravy

Watch on CBC Gem

PUGLY

Pugly follows a year-in-the-life of a group of three rescue pugs, their triumphs and tribulations, and the growing community of people devoted to the “squishy-faced” dog. Despite the head-to-tail health issues common in these breeds, pugs are more popular than ever—and they’re full of surprises. From Helmut, star of Toronto’s monthly Pug Grumble, to Titus, the half-blind dog who will not give up chasing speeding trains, find out why everyone is falling for these loveable little hounds and living the pug life.

Follow the wonderful stories of three pugs in the care of Toronto’s Pugalug Pug Rescue, an amazing network of folks who fight for these squishy-faced dogs when nobody else will. Fun fact: I was so moved from watching this film at our cinema that I adopted its star, Gunner!

Jenn Shah Director of Sponsorship Marketing

Pair with Sarah Kieffer’s Chocolate Chip Cookie

Watch on CBC Gem

MINDING THE GAP

For three young men growing up in in Illinois, adulthood and the responsibilities that come with it are quickly approaching. After the carefree summers of their adolescence spent skateboarding around Rockford, the stressors of fatherhood, money, racial tensions, domestic abuse and more start to threaten their decade-long friendship. Filmmaker Bing Liu returns home to reconnect with his two friends, bringing with him footage shot over the course of the last 10 years. Through this personal footage and present-day interviews, Minding the Gap offers a vulnerable and powerfully honest look at the many struggles of growing up and the difficulties of moving forward from heavy pasts into uncertain futures.

Beautifully bridging that gap between childhood and adulthood, this Oscar-nominated film is a personal, coming-of-age look at the legacy of childhood trauma and how we strive for better. A rare gem.

Olena Decock Industry Programmer, Conference and Funds

Pair with Armand Bernard’s Avonlea Mac & Cheese

Watch on CBC Gem or Apple TV+

93QUEEN

The Hasidic neighbourhood of Borough Park, Brooklyn, is home to a chapter of the largest volunteer ambulance corps in the world: the Hatzolah, an organization that steadfastly bans women from joining its ranks. Rachel “Ruchie” Freier, a no-nonsense lawyer and mother of six, attempts to break her community’s glass ceiling by creating the first all-female EMT service in the city—risking her reputation and future in the process. With unprecedented access to this highly secluded community, and a non-judgmental perspective on their lifestyle, 93QUEEN shatters stereotypes and teaches an important lesson: It’s from within that conservative societies can change.

If you are grateful for the work and sacrifices of first responders, you’ll love cheering on Rachel “Ruchie” Freier, a Hasidic mother and lawyer who fights to establish the first all-female EMT force in New York City.

Stephanie McArthur Senior Industry Programs Manager

Pair with John Jackson & Connie DeSousa’s Alley Burger

Watch on Crave

THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS

For three teenage boys living in New York in the 1980s, what starts as an uncanny resemblance quickly turns into an extraordinary stranger-than-fiction story. The discovery that Bobby, Eddy and David were triplets separated at birth and adopted by three different families catapults the former strangers to international fame. But their incredible reunion also unlocks a secret that gives this bizarre and charming tale a mysterious and troubling origin story. See one of the most talked-about films of Hot Docs 2018 on our screen after sold-out screenings.

In one of the most unforgettable docs I’ve ever seen, three college-aged men discover they are long lost identical triplets separated at birth. Just try to stop talking about this film after watching.

Chris McDonald President, Hot Docs

Pair with Three Flavour Linguine

Watch on Netflix

VIRUNGA

The world’s last remaining mountain gorilla population lives in the forested depths of the Virunga National Park in eastern Congo. A Belgian conservationist has been tasked with protecting the gorillas. With his team of Congolese rangers, he attempts to safeguard this UNESCO World Heritage Site against the many people and organizations who want to control the lucrative natural resources under its ground. Director Orlando von Einsiedel takes us into the park at a time when the Congo’s largest rebel group declares war on the government army. Virunga shows us the personal experiences of the park staff as they bravely prepare to protect everything they’ve worked so hard for against a resurgence of wars that have been going on for decades. It’s an investigative and human portrait of one of the most bio-diverse places on Earth and its inhabitants.

Virunga reveals the moments of peace and humour that can exist in the most trying of times. This multi-award winning doc will steal your heart and strengthen your resolve to fight for a brighter future. I promise you will feel ALL the feelings.

Adam Kirkham Associate Director of Sponsorship Marketing

Pair with Kaitlyn Stewart’s High & Dry cocktail

Watch on Crave

BECOMING BOND

Lazenby, George Lazenby. The only man to play James Bond just once, George shares the stranger-than-fiction story of how he lucked into the iconic role and later left it behind. Through a playful combination of re-enactments and a stellar sit-down interview, George relates tall tales about his life that could rival any 007 storyline. Born in a small town in Australia with only half a kidney, he wasn’t supposed to live past age seven. But live he did, and how! After discovering girls and the joys of sex in adolescence, he gained a reputation. But all that changed after meeting Belinda, whom he followed to England…Featured in the re-enactments are Bond girl Jane Seymour as the woman who discovers George, Dana Carvey as Johnny Carson and Jeff Garlin as film producer Harry Saltzman. Hollywood may associate his name with a single, short-lived performance, but George proves he’s his own man.

Used car salesman turned (one-time) 007, George Lazenby was an international man of intrigue in his own right. Turn this playful portrait on tonight for a good laugh, and to relish in the fun and nostalgia of the 1970s.

April Hazan Director of Development

Pair with an Espresso Martini

Watch on Crave

SCOTTIE AND THE SECRET HISTORY OF HOLLYWOOD

This sensational exposé gives you view into a secret chapter of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Based on his bestselling tell-all memoir, legendary hustler Scotty Bowers chronicles his decades spent as a sexual procurer to the stars. From a gas station on the edge of the studio lots, the dashingly handsome ex-Marine ran a covert matchmaking service, connecting his band of friends to the movie industry’s glitterati—many of them gay and closeted. Discover a different side of Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy, Lana Turner and more in this fascinating portrait of an unsung legend.

Male hustlers and old Hollywood? Stop! Let me grab the popcorn. Perhaps not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re looking for someone to spill it, Scotty

is the guy for you.

Jonathan Da Silva Director of Communications

Pair with Jean Christophe Poirier’s Tarte au Sucre

Watch on CBC GEM

BEE NATION

Kahkewistahaw First Nation Reserve is a world away from Toronto in so many ways, but for Grade 3 student William Kaysaywaysemat III it’s a journey he’s keen to make to represent his school and community. Through the first province-wide First Nations Spelling Bee, William and many others have an opportunity to compete against the nation’s best. There’s one way to spell success, but many ways to define it. The tensions of the competitions are highly compelling cinema, but the heart of the film lies with the families and teachers. They’ve built an empowering support system, challenging policies of inequity and refusing to limit their children’s options. As Chief Kahkewistahaw Community School principal Evan Taypotat says, “Never judge a person ‘til you’ve walked a mile in their moccasins.” Bee Nation highlights kids who have dedicated themselves to their education in an inspiring story that encourages us all to be our best selves.

A warm and heartfelt story showing how practice and perseverance can change the lives of young Indigenous children through something as simple

as a spelling bee. Perfect to keep your family entertained!

Alicks Girowski Volunteers Manager

Pair with Dale Mackay’s Saskatchewan Perogies

Watch on Netflix

PICK OF THE LITTER

The connections people share with their dogs are loving and joyful. For those in need of guide dogs, this camaraderie is crucial, as they are very literally entrusting their lives to their canine companions. Pick of the Litter goes on a two-year journey with a handful of adorable Labrador puppies enrolled in a rigorous training program to become guide dogs for the blind. Not all will make the cut, but those who do will emerge as heroes to the people who’ll have them by their side. With intimate access to the dogs and their trainers, we see the remarkable journey from frolicking puppy to loyal guide. And for the people who eventually get the pick of the litter, it’s love at first lick.

This is just what we all need right now: an hour and a half of lab puppies on their journey to becoming guide dogs. Prepare for a cuteness overload.

Naomi Heller Donor Development Manager

Pair with Caterina Ceraudo’s Ricotta Gnocchi with Peppers and Spinach

Watch on CBC Gem

LOVE, SCOTT

One night outside of a club, musician Scott Jones was stabbed twice in the back and slashed across the throat because he was gay. The brutal attack left him paralyzed from the waist down and forced him to confront a new reality with limited mobility. His assailant was never prosecuted with a hate crime. As both filmmaker and close friend to Scott, Laura Marie Wayne crafts an intimate, poetic and deeply moving story of transformation. Moving compassionately between their shared past and present, the conversations between the filmmaker and her subject are honest and healing. Scott’s resilience in returning to the places he holds dear and sharing his musical talent with audiences shows that fear has no place in his life. He courageously shares his journey with the hope that his life can be a positive example for others facing their own challenges and reassure them they’re not alone.

Stories that show the resilience of LGBTQ+ people are always high on my list. This powerful Hot Docs ’19 film highlights the importance of art and community in helping us navigate difficult experiences, which feels apt right now.

Carly Beath Senior Manager, Public Affairs

Pair with Jordan Holley’s Nordic Shrimp Rolls