2025 Edition

Thank you for an unforgettable sold-out screening ofThe Secret Agent (O Agente Secreto)

Last night, the Brazil Film Fest Toronto began a brand-new chapter — and what a beginning it was.

More than 520 people filled the TIFF Lightbox for our special pre-screening of The Secret Agent (O Agente Secreto), directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho. The energy in the room, the applause, the emotion, and the incredible support from our community made this event truly historic for us.

This screening marked 18 years of the festival and the start of a new era led by our four co-directors:
Ivonete de Sousa, Leandro Matos, Arnon Melo, and Andrea Giusti — all proudly carrying forward the legacy created by our founder, Katia Adler, who led the festival with dedication and heart for nearly two decades.

A Night of Gratitude

Our team opened the evening by thanking everyone who braved the cold to celebrate Brazilian storytelling on the big screen. Seeing a full theatre reminded us why we do this: the love for film, for culture, and for our community.

We extend our warmest appreciation to Elevation Pictures— especially Noah Segal, Michael Robson, and their team — for partnering with us to bring this remarkable film to Toronto audiences.

A heartfelt thank-you as well to the incredible TIFF staff and to our volunteers, whose support made this event smooth, welcoming, and unforgettable.

Honouring Our Past to Build the Future

During the introduction, we paid tribute to Katia Adler, founder of the Brazil Film Fest Toronto.
For 17 years, Katia built a cultural bridge between Brazil and Canada, creating visibility, pride, and connection for our community. Her leadership, kindness, and commitment shaped this festival into one of the city’s most beloved cultural events.

Last year, Katia entrusted the festival to our four-person team — a gesture of confidence and continuity that we hold with great respect. Last night’s success is also hers.

Thank You to Our Sponsors and Supporters

This event came together in record time, and it simply would not have been possible without our extraordinary sponsors, supporters, and community partners. 

The Brazil Film Fest Toronto is a festival dedicated to celebrating the best of Brazilian cinema in the multicultural heart of Toronto.
The event features a vibrant selection of films — features, shorts and documentaries — that showcase the richness, creativity and diversity of stories told in Brazil.

More than a film showcase, the festival is a space for cultural exchange, where audiences, filmmakers and industry professionals come together to share experiences, ideas and perspectives on the world.
Brazil Film Fest Toronto invites Canadian audiences to discover Brazil through its most authentic and inspiring cinematic voices.

Our purpose is to strengthen cultural ties between Brazil and Canada, expand the visibility of Brazilian cinema, and promote artistic dialogue in an environment of diversity and innovation.