Motivated centenarians, a motley crew of professional wrestlers and Black business owners in Vancouver are all the various subjects of upcoming documentaries that are as diverse and fascinating as the films themselves.
The Sid Doc Series is offering free access to a selection of must-see documentary films that have captivated audiences at some of the world鈥檚 top film festivals. With a focus on powerful stories, the series brings an entertaining range of films to Courtenay鈥檚 Sid Williams Theatre this winter.
鈥淲e鈥檙e thrilled to bring these impactful stories to Courtenay for free,鈥� says Deborah Renz, general manager of the Sid Williams Theatre Society. 鈥淭hese films offer not just entertainment, but also a chance to engage with stories that matter.鈥�
Union Street kicks off the screenings on Feb. 13 as programming to celebrate Black History Month. The film uncovers the erased history of Vancouver鈥檚 Black community in Hogan鈥檚 Alley, once a thriving neighborhood destroyed by the construction of the Georgia Viaduct in the 1970s. Through interviews and archival footage, the film highlights systemic racism and shines a light on a new generation working to reclaim cultural space and build community.
On Feb. 28, The Death Tour makes a stop at the Sid with an inside look at the grueling and emotionally charged world of professional wrestling. A road-trip movie like no other, the documentary follows wrestlers on a unique journey through remote Indigenous communities in Northern Manitoba, where they face physical hardships, many emotions and the ultimate test of their passion for wrestling.
Finally, on March 6, make time for the motivational 100UP and follow a group of centenarians from around the globe who have lived through extraordinary events and immense challenges. Instead of focussing on the past, they embrace each day with vitality and a relentless will to live. A beautiful story about setting goals and joie de vivre, it will inspire.
Each of the documentaries offers an unforgettable cinematic experience. And to ensure these impactful films are accessible to all, the Sid Williams Theatre Society subsidizes the screening costs to offer tickets free of charge. This initiative aims to encourage and support a community of engaged viewers by creating opportunities to reflect and connect.
Admission to all three screenings is completely free, but you鈥檒l need a ticket to reserve your spot. Tickets can be secured through the Sid Williams Theatre website at , by calling 250.338.2430 or by visiting the box office in person. For more information about show times and event details, visit our website.
