Since its inception in 2005, the Hamazkayin Pomegranate Film Festival has grown to become a main attraction and highly anticipated cultural event in Toronto. Its mission is to promote films about Armenia and Armenians, as well as films that are either directed or produced by an Armenian artist.
The POM as it is known, attracts over 2000 viewers each year, some of whom arrive in Toronto from various other cities.
Over the course of three to four days, more than 35 films are screened. In addition to the screenings, the annual Gala attracts many and is the perfect opportunity for the community to interact with directors, actors, producers, screenwriters and film critics, who arrive from many parts of the world. Atom Egoyan and Arsinée Khanjian are regulars at the Festival; their continuous support of the Festival has been extensive since its inception. Among other names, producer Silva Basmajian of the National Film Board of Canada has been a long-time member of the POM jury committee.
The roster of films includes Canadian and North American premiers, as well as award-winning films. As part of the Festival, the POM Grant is provided to an up-and-coming artist. The Festival is typically held at the Hamazkayin Theatre Hall at the Armenian Youth Centre, with some screenings held in other theatres in town. The Festival committee works tirelessly to deliver an unforgettable program each year. More information can be found at www.pomegranatefilmfestival.com.
