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RTA and Image Arts take over the Young Creators Showcase at TIFF

TMU students and alumni shine at TIFF Next Wave’s Young Creators Showcase
By: Nashra Syed
May 13, 2025

Toronto Metropolitan University was prominently featured at the 2025 TIFF Next Wave Young Creators Showcase (external link, opens in new window) , with five of the thirteen selected short films created by students and recent alumni from the Image Arts Film (opens in new window)  and RTA Media Production (opens in new window)  programs.

The annual event, hosted by the Toronto International Film Festival, highlights innovative work by emerging filmmakers. TMU’s strong presence this year reflected the depth of creative talent fostered across its media and arts programs.

Image Arts alum Luis De Filippis also served on the TIFF Next Wave jury, selecting this year’s award recipients — a further testament to the ongoing impact of TMU creatives in the film industry. With a growing presence at major festivals, TMU continues to be a launchpad for the next generation of Canadian filmmakers.

Featured Films

  • Back to the Closet – Alex Dashwood (RTA Media Production)
  • Taco Boy – Lizzie Han (Image Arts: Film)
  • The Casting Call – Rachel Pevsner (Image Arts: Film)
  • Cocoon – Juliet Belisario (Image Arts: Film)
  • Wet Noodle – Julia Lalonde (Image Arts: Film)
Still from Back To the Closet by Alex Dashwood

Still from Back To the Closet, Directed by Alex Dashwood

Still from The Casting Call, Directed by Rachel Pevsner

Still from The Casting Call, Directed by Rachel Pevsner

A girl is sitting in classroom looking past the camera

Still from Wet Noodle, Directed by Julia Lalonde

A close up of a young girl

Still from Taco Boy, Directed by Lizzie Han

Still from Cocoon by  Juliet Belisario

Still from Cocoon, Directed by Juliet Belisario

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