Introduction to the Quebec Focus Quebec is one of the most important centres of the Canadian film industry, renowned for its strong cultural identity, its cinematic traditions and its contribution to both national and international cinema. The French-speaking province's exceptional cultural heritage allows filmmakers to explore unique social, political and cultural realities. Quebec cinema is also shaped by Canada's colonial history, with many films set in lands inhabited by autochthons and exploring the cultural and territorial consequences of annexation. Pioneers such as Alanis Obomsawin documented the struggles of the First Nations and many artists continue to follow in their footsteps today. Quebec filmmakers, renowned for artistic innovation, push the boundaries of storytelling through experimentation and genre, often exploring themes of identity, language and the divide between French and English speakers. This creative expression has made Quebec an important player in the North American auteur non-commercial cinema scene, where films are appreciated for their artistic merit. With strong government support, Quebec cinema has made a significant contribution to shaping the discourse of world cinema. New Quebec voices This energetic programme presents six films by a new generation of Quebec filmmakers, who have been the most prominent in the repertoire of the REGARD International Short Film Festival in recent years. The programme opens with a typical journey into rural life in Quebec, infused with the sounds of traditional music. Afterwards, we go to the beach with the charming 107-year-old Madlena and her 40-year-old friend. The comedy "Wild Flowers" will probably remind you of that friend who leaves countless messages on your voicemail. We'll also invite you to a surreal banquet with mums... and their monsters. We'll follow in the footsteps of Catherine's Attic ancestors. And the programme will be rounded off with the stunning Simo, a powerful and contemporary tribute to immigrant families facing stereotypes and cultural challenges. Founded in 1995, REGARD is one of the most important short film festivals in North America. Held in Quebec (Canada's largest province), the Oscar-qualifying event showcases more than 200 short films from around the world each year and hosts the only short film fair in the Quebec region. The programme has been prepared by Morgane Ferrero, REGARD's programme manager. FILMS: À toi les oreilles Dir. Alexandre Isabelle / fiction / Canada / 2024 / 13 min. While the townspeople celebrate the town's anniversary, Etienne tries to do the impossible - to show the true beauty of his family's cacophony. Madeleine / Madeleine Dir. Raquel Sancinetti / animation / Canada / 2023 / 15 min. Every week, in the living room of a seniors' home, two friends, born 67 years apart, share their life stories. The younger one convinces the 107-year-old to join her on an adventure - a trip to the seaside. Wild Flowers Dir. Rodolphe Saint-Gelais, Thierry Sirois / animation / Canada / 2023 / 5 min. In a detailed voicemail message, a man explains how to use an old tractor-mower to mow his lawn without upsetting the balance of the garden. Mothers & Monsters Dir. Edith Jorisch / fiction / Canada / 2023 / 15 min. Mothers and their perfect children are invited to a very special party. Suddenly, the celebration is disrupted by a strange setback. What is behind this ideal world? This is a surreal satire on modern motherhood and the ideal of the family at a time when capitalism is at its peak. 6 minutes per kilometre / 6 minutes per kilometer Dir. Catherine Boivin / experimental / Canada / 2023 / 3 min. Following in the footsteps of her athletic ancestors, Catherine immerses us in the dream universe of her morning run. Simo / Simo Dir. Aziz Zoromba / Feature / Canada / 2022 / 23 min. The relationship between brothers Simo and Emad is full of competition and jealousy. To prove his popularity and skills to his brother, Simo secretly takes over Emad's online gaming channel. His actions take a dangerous turn and could change the future of the whole family.