Unarmed Verses

Toronto Community Housing's Villaways neighbourhood was built in the 1970s in an isolated and marginalized part of the city. It's been designated for redevelopment between 2016 and 2019, and during construction all the current residents will be relocated. The revitalization promises a fresh start, but for those who call Villaways home, the transition is a major disruption amidst their ongoing struggles. For Francine Valentine, an insightful 12-year-old growing up in the area, her world revolves around her friends and family. By joining the local Arts Starts's Up & Rooted music program she embraces the opportunity to express herself with honesty and beauty. Entering her adolescent years, Francine has already witnessed the hard realities that surround her and other teenage kids. Both the program and the film share that unique perspective. Through her words and following her daily routines, Charles Officer has created a poetic work of cinema that transcends social observation. (Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival)