The Gimli International Film Festival wrapped up its 26th edition on July 26, 2026, after five days of screenings, filmmaker chats, and a big win for a local director. Held July 22 to 26 in Gimli, Manitoba, the festival brought over 100 films to indoor venues and the sandy shores of Lake Winnipeg.
This year’s RBC Beach Screenings featured free outdoor movies on an 11-metre-tall screen standing right in the water. Crowds took in classics like Jaws, Night of the Living Dead, Shrek, and Raising Arizona. Many attendees shared their love for the event, with one festival-goer posting online about wonderful conversations, inspiring stories, and lovely people.
A major highlight was the 15th annual RBC Emerging Filmmaker Pitch Competition. Winnipeg’s John Luke won the $15,000 prize for his project Sun Shower. Luke, whose credits include APTN series Taken and 7th Gen, was chosen from five finalists during a live pitch on July 26.
The festival also kept its strong Icelandic roots alive. An Icelandic Raffle gave one lucky winner a trip for two to Iceland worth over $7,000. The prize ties back to Gimli’s identity as the heart of New Iceland, home to the largest Icelandic population outside of Iceland. About 28.4 per cent of locals claim some Icelandic heritage.
Behind the scenes, executive director Teya Zuzek led the team in delivering a festival that celebrates both global cinema and Prairie community. Since starting in 2001 as part of the long-running Icelandic Festival of Manitoba, the Gimli International Film Festival has grown into Canada’s biggest rural film festival, right here on the shores of Lake Winnipeg.
