Here are some of Hot Docs best offerings — whether you’re in Toronto or not
The return of Toronto’s Hot Docs festival this year comes as a welcome relief for documentary enthusiasts around the world. Despite the challenges faced by the festival in the past year, including budget struggles and employee exodus, the lineup for 2025 promises to be exceptional.
With 113 documentaries covering a wide range of topics from global conflicts to personal stories, there is something for everyone at Hot Docs this year. Some of the standout films include “Shamed,” which follows the story of Jason Nassr and his efforts to expose alleged child predators, “The Track,” a meditative sports documentary about a dilapidated bobsled track in Sarajevo, and “2000 Meters to Andriivka,” a harrowing account of the human cost of war in Ukraine.
Another highlight of the festival is “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore,” which explores the career of the trailblazing deaf actor Marlee Matlin. The film delves into her personal struggles and triumphs, shedding light on the challenges she faced in Hollywood.
“Saints and Warriors” is a powerful documentary that follows the journey of the Skidegate Saints basketball team from Haida Gwaii. The film not only showcases the team’s quest for a championship but also explores themes of Indigenous resilience and community.
“Mr. Nobody Against Putin” and “Antidote” are two films that focus on the political climate in Russia and the dangers faced by journalists and activists who speak out against the government. These films offer a chilling glimpse into the realities of living under an authoritarian regime.
For those unable to attend the festival in person, many of the films will be available for online viewing or broadcast on television later this year. With such a diverse and compelling lineup, Hot Docs 2025 is sure to be a memorable event for documentary lovers everywhere.
