FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONTREAL, QC – October 2026 In this season of raising awareness for mental health the 14th annual Au Contraire Film Festival (ACFF) returns to challenge stigma and raise vital funds for UP House, founded by Paradis Urbain. This year’s fundraising gala under the theme “Connection, Compassion,” ACFF explores human empathy and reflection in an evolving digital age driven by artificial intelligence.
The festival brings together over 350 corporate leaders, philanthropists, and advocates to celebrate resilience through the power of cinema. Highlights include:
- AI, Robotics & Film Premieres: Exclusive Canadian premieres of films exploring AI and bipolar disorders (Trust Me, Useless, Flames of Me, and This Time Away). Attendees will also interact with a special guest: the X2 Lite humanoid robot.
- Honouring a Local Pioneer: Former Chief Judge of the Municipal Court of Montréal, Morton Minc (Order of Canada & Order of Montreal recipient), who received the 2026 Coupe Lumière award for creating a pioneering social justice court that diverted marginalized individuals toward rehabilitation instead of criminalization.
- A Global Montreal First: All proceeds directly support UP House, an evidence-based clubhouse with over 900 members that holds the unique distinction of being the world’s only bilingual Clubhouse dedicated to eliminating social isolation for adults with long-term mental health challenges.
- Community & Digital Reach: Beyond the Gala, the festival features a month-long digital experience (Oct 1–31) and kicked off with community screenings in collaboration with RACOR at Ausgang Plaza.
“The Au Contraire Film Festival Gala is not only a fundraiser but marks the culmination of many year-round screening initiatives that all advocate for mental health by educating, fostering awareness and discussion, and dispelling myths.”
Philip Silverberg, Festival Founder
Date & Time: Monday, October 26, 2026 | 6:00 PM (Gourmet Buffet Dînatoire & Wine) | 7:30 PM (Film Screenings & Presentation)
Location: Hilton Garden Inn Midtown, 6939 Decarie Blvd, Montreal, QC
Websites: www.acff.ca, www.uphouse.org, www.paradisurbain.org
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Emilie Glaud, Event Project Manager, Paradis Urbain
Email: communications@paradisurbain.org
Phone: (514) 798-0791