Through the power of film, volunteers in Sault Ste. Marie are aiming to enlighten and entertain over the next week.
The annual Shadows of the Mind Film Festival is underway, encouraging conversation in the community about mental health and addictions with 25 films over seven days.
Wendy Hamilton is the film festival coordinator.
"We never sit down and talk about a theme. We just talk about good movies, that address the human condition and that is pretty well the guiding principal." said Hamilton.
On Tuesday, postpartum depression and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder were the themes of the movies being screened at the Grand Theatre.
Local organizations are thankful this festival is willing to show a film that deals with these issues.
Kimberly Cavanagh-Dillane is a Brief Services Counsellor with Algoma Family Services.
"It actually means a lot, because it offers an opportunity to create exposure and awareness to a topic that many of us are impacted or effected by, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. So, that in itself promotes education and wellness." said Cavanagh-Dillane.
The festival started out as a three day event 19 years ago, and has now grown to a seven day event.
Fans say they keep coming back year after year because of the broad range of topics being discussed.
"I think Shadows provides such a wonderful opportunity for the community to get together and to explore some really important films. The topics are all about mental health and reduces stigma." said one attendee.
"There's so many very different topics they cover and I think it's great around awareness and education. Great conversation.” said another.
The festival wraps up Sunday night.
