Film POP Brings Rock Docs, Weird Gems, and Immersive Worlds to the Big Screen in Montreal

Montreal’s film arm of the POP Montreal festival is set to screen a diverse lineup of movies from September 23 to 27 at Cinéma Moderne, celebrating the festival’s 25th anniversary with a program dubbed “Music in Motion.”

As someone new to Montreal, I couldn’t be more excited to dive into this unique film festival. The lineup includes documentaries and feature films that explore the lives and music of legendary bands, as well as immersive documentaries that offer a deeper look into the cultural and environmental issues affecting our city.

For the rock doc fans, you won’t want to miss I Am Trying to Break Your Heart: A Film About Wilco (Sept. 24, 6:30 p.m.) by Sam Jones. This film provides a deeper understanding of the band’s musical journey and the personal stories behind their songs. Similarly, The Hole Truth and Nothing Butt (Sept. 27, 5 p.m.) offers a humorous and insightful look into the legendary band, The Butthole Surfers.

If you’re into weird gems, Summer 2000: The X-Cetra Story (Sept. 26, 5 p.m.) is a must-see. It explores the unexpected homemade album by X-Cetra, released two decades after its initial release. This film will surely challenge your expectations and expand your musical horizons.

For a more immersive experience, AKI (Sept. 23, 7:30 p.m.) is a visually stunning documentary that offers a portrait of a people’s enduring relationship with their land. This film, set in Atikameksheng Anishnawbek in Northern Ontario, showcases the rhythms of the seasons and the Anishinaabemowin dialogue. It’s a poignant exploration of cultural heritage and identity.

To wrap up the festival, Imaginal Disk (Sept. 24, 8:30 p.m.) is a cinematic companion to Magdalena Bay’s eponymous album. This film expands the album’s kaleidoscopic world into a bold, visually driven narrative that will keep your eyes and ears busy.

Whether you’re here for the rock docs, the weird gems, or the immersive worlds, Film POP has plenty to offer. With tickets available on the POP Montreal website, it’s the perfect excuse to spend an evening at the cinema and explore the diverse world of independent films. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to be transported to a different world!