Every Film You Should See at Hot Docs 2015

Documentary films live in a world outside mainstream cinema, yet they’re the ones we relate to most.

Stories about real people going through extraordinary struggles, glimpses inside the private lives of public people, and investigations into world issues we wouldn’t otherwise get to know a thing about are all on the menu this year at Hot Docs.  

Here’s what we look forward to seeing at this year’s festival. 

Radical Grace
Following three American nuns, this doc explores their quest to challenge the Catholic Church’s outdated politics via defending the Affordable Care Act, supporting ex-cons, and exposing the Church’s ancient female leadership to promote equality within it. When the Vatican investigates their “radical feminist beliefs” and requests they abandon such politics, they refuse to be silenced.
Tig
Detailing her rapid rise to fame in 2012 after opening a set with “Good evening, I have cancer,” this Hot Docs opening night screening explores the year following the set, and how it changed the course of comedian Tig Notaro’s career.
No Place To Hide: The Rehtaeh Parsons Story
One of the worst injustices in Canada occurred when Rehtaeh Parsons took her own life due to cyber-bullying following her rape – and her attackers were allowed to walk away without punishment . This doc explores her short life through those closest to her, exposing a justice system that needs to change.
(T)ERROR
This Sundance-winning doc explores FBI counterterrorism investigations and their at times tasteless practices and foggy justifications for actions taken, with full access from an informant who is helping the feds track a new suspect.
Sugar Coated
With obesity rates at an all-time high and the first generation of children with fatty liver disease currently being treated, this doc exposes the way the sugar industry is adopting the tobacco industry’s shameless tactics to ensure profits stay high.
Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck 
The first fully authorized Kurt Cobain film to date (produced by his daughter, Francis Bean Cobain), the film explores the music legend’s life with never before seen home movies, unreleased songs, animation, and interviews with family and friends.
Foodies
As Michelin-star restaurants showcase their latest creations, food bloggers fly around the world and sit down to taste and decide the fate of the dish. One bad review can take a restaurant down, and the power lies in the hands of these foodies. 
Gayby Baby
For years the argument was made by those against same sex parenting that these children would have a harder time growing up. This documentary sheds light on the topic, following the lives of these children as they navigate the complex world of growing up.
What Happened, Miss Simone? 
Legendary soul singer Nina Simone’s complex life is profiled in this doc, taking viewers through her life as a pianist, singer and civil rights icon by using her own words to tell the story. 
Live From New York!
Looking back on 40 years of SNL comedy history, this doc features countless alumni including Chevy Chase, Jane Curtain, Tina Fey, Will Ferrell, Andy Samberg, Amy Poehler and more to discuss the little comedy show Lorne Michaels dreamed up that went on to become the benchmark of almost every great comedian’s career.
Milk
This investigation into the politics of birthing and breastfeeding is a deep dive into arguments on the medicalization of birth, midwifery and the use and abuse of infant formula.
Listen To Me Marlon 
Remembered for his elusive nature, this cinematic portrait brings to life a sympathetic portrait of movie icon Marlon Brando via interviews, film clips and home movies that enlighten the viewer on the life of a man who achieved his wildest dreams only to loathe the spotlight those dreams required.
#NOTABLE

Want more updates on the most Notable things happening so you know before your colleagues do? Get our exclusive newsletter here and follow us on Twitter for all the latest.