Awaken the Creator Within: Celebrating Local Voices on December 17

Scriptfest and SudburyFilms.com present Awaken the Creator Within: The Power of Local Cinema, made possible with the generous support of Incapture Media.

On December 17, we came together once again for a powerful night of local cinema at Sudbury Indie Cinema. Just a couple of weeks after our first event, the momentum was undeniable. More familiar faces, new voices, and a growing sense that something meaningful is taking root in our community.

This event would not be possible without the sponsorship of Incapture Media. Their support helps create real opportunities for local filmmakers to see their work on the big screen and be recognized for the stories they are brave enough to tell.

The room was filled with people who care deeply about stories made in their own backyard. These nights are not just about watching films. They are about showing up for one another, creating space for local artists, and proving that our stories matter when they are shared together.

The Films Screened

This second evening featured a brand-new lineup of short films by local filmmakers:

Wishbone – MJ Dionne

The Stain – MJ Dionne

Terminal 4 – Kyle Vine

DANCING IS MEANINGLESS – John Milne

Semi Circle – Micheal Nathan

Hommage + Piccaroon – Bosmos

Polaris – Clayton Drake

Fortune Cookie Chronicles – Frank Racicot

Each film brought its own rhythm, tone, and perspective. Together, they reflected the range of voices, styles, and creative risks being taken by filmmakers right here in our community.

Live Entertainment on the Big Screen

December 17 marked an exciting evolution of the event with live entertainment woven into the night. The Donut Workshop crew joined us with their Socks and Sleeves puppet, alongside the unforgettable Stormwalker character.

This live performance added a playful, theatrical layer to the evening and reminded us that cinema does not have to live in isolation. Film, performance, puppetry, and imagination shared the same space, creating an experience that can only happen in person.

donut workshop crew / Socks and Sleeves with Stormwalker and Showrunner Dylan Gibson

Recognizing Our Local Stars

At the end of the night, we took time to recognize the filmmakers by giving stars to all of our local stars.

Recognition matters. Local artists keep creating when they feel seen, supported, and encouraged. Celebrating our own talent is how we ensure filmmakers continue telling bold, personal, and meaningful stories rooted in this community.

Why This Matters

Events like December 17 are about more than a single screening. They are about building confidence, momentum, and pride in local voices. When filmmakers see their work on the big screen and feel the energy of a live audience, it changes what feels possible.

Local cinema grows when it is given a home.

There are only two events left in the Awaken the Creator Within series: January 7 and January 21. These final nights continue the mission of celebrating local filmmakers and strengthening the creative community around them.

Local stories are happening here. Showing up is how we keep them alive.