Rated Y for Youth

Rated Y Banner 2025

Rated Y for Youth is back for its 16th edition! Curated with the intention of facilitating media literacy through thought-provoking documentaries, this program provides an opportunity for high school students and youth to foster an appreciation for cinema, while engaging in open dialogues on a broad range of social issues. Each Rated Y film will include a complementary Study Guide to support and enrich classroom conversations, as well as a live discussion with filmmakers and community members.

Educators interested in group bookings for Rated Y screenings, please email boxoffice[at]doxafestival.ca.
 

View the 2025 Program

 

#skoden

Damien Eagle Bear, Niitsítapi, 2025, 76 mins

Panelists: Damien Eagle Bear, Mark Brave Rock
Moderator: TBC

#skoden examines the impact of an iconic yet controversial meme that has become both a rallying cry for Indigenous resilience and a symbol of harmful misrepresentation, rooted in racist stereotypes. At the center of the story is Pernell Bad Arm, a Blackfoot man from the Blood Tribe whose image was turned into a meme without his knowledge or consent. Through intimate storytelling and interviews with Pernell’s friends, the film explores the power of online culture, the weight of misrepresentation, and the ongoing fight for Indigenous dignity and truth.

For screening times, click here.

 

King Arthur's Night

John Bolton, Canada, 2024, 110 mins

Panelists: John Bolton, Niall McNeil, Marcus Youssef, Veda Hille
Moderator: TBC

A bold reimagining of the King Arthur legend, King Arthur’s Night brings together artists with and without Down syndrome in a dazzling mix of theatre, documentary, and cinematic magic. Directed by John Bolton, the film moves fluidly between staged medieval musical reenactments and candid, behind-the-scenes moments of camaraderie and creative freedom. Blurring the lines between performance and reality, scripted drama and spontaneous play, Bolton’s film is a spellbinding fusion of myth and modernity. Think The Green Knight meets Crip Camp—with songs.

In English with Integrated Described Video (IDV)

For screening times, click here.

 

They Are Sacred

Kim O’Bomsawin, Abenaki Nation, nîpisîhkopâhk, 2025, 75 mins

Panelists: Kim O'Bomsawin, Dr. Grant Bruno, Andrée-Anne Frenette, Maéli Beauvais-Gentile
Moderator: TBC

They Are Sacred reframes neurodiversity through an Indigenous lens, following young Anders (Sacred Buffalo Child) and his father Dr. Grant Bruno (Yellow Horse) of the Samson Cree nation. Dr. Bruno, an Assistant Professor in Pediatrics, challenges clinical definitions that see autism as a deficit, and embraces Cree traditions that honour neurodiversity as a sacred gift. As Anders experiences his first sweat lodge, receives his Cree name, and deepens his connection to the land by learning how to hunt, the film demonstrates the profound impact of cultural knowledge and spiritual support. The narrative further portrays the systemic barriers Indigenous families face in accessing autism resources that honour their traditions. A powerful story of reclamation, this film champions Indigenous knowledge in shaping neuro-affirmative care.

For screening times, click here.

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View the full DOXA 2025 program.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

When are the films playing for Rated Y for Youth?

DOXA Festival takes place from May 1-11, 2025, and the Rated Y screenings are tentatively scheduled between May 5-9. Dates will be announced in early April; those who have pre-registered or reached out to express interest will be notified prior to this.

All Rated Y for Youth films are matinee screenings.

 

Are there any costs to buy Rated Y for Youth tickets?

We offer discounted tickets to student groups booking tickets for Rated Y screenings. Teachers and/or chaperones receive a free ticket to the screening. Schools and organizations must contact DOXA's box office directly to reserve and book their group screening.
 


Where are the films playing / How do I get to the venue for DOXA Festival?

Venues for Rated Y for Youth screenings are subject to change each year, but have usually taken place at:

Each Rated Y for Youth film may play at a different location. All DOXA venues offer accessible seating and washrooms.