First Light: Official Selections of 2026 Fountainhead and Curatorial Reflections

Before a film meets its audience, it has already lived a quieter life—one shaped by the fragments seen or missed, the details kept or cut, the many quiet decisions that ultimately shape the contours of a festival.

On October 11, we will host the online launch of the Official Selections for the 2026 Fountainhead Programme. Selected filmmakers and our curatorial team will come together for an open conversation on the thinking behind this year’s selection and the path from submission to screen.

If you’re curious about how a film makes its way from consideration to selection,

or you’re planning to submit to us or other film festivals in the future,

you’re cordially invited to join us. One hour: just films, curation and the wonderful joy of creating.

Time: 10:30 AM, Sunday, October 11 (Toronto, EDT) / 10:30 PM, Sunday, October 11 (Beijing Time)

Location: Zoom – Please use the button below to register by October 10. Limited space, so early registration is encouraged.

The event will be conducted in both Chinese and English.