Calgary Underground Film Festival 2025 Edition: Our Four Favourites
Spring in Calgary brings with it the return of one of our favorite cinematic events of the year: the Calgary Underground Film Festival. Now in its 22nd year, CUFF continues to deliver a carefully curated selection of bold, innovative, and unconventional films that challenge mainstream cinema norms. The range of films include a cryptocurrency comedy called $POSTIONS, the Canadian premiere of Japan samurai film BUSHIDO, a terrifying tale about a loyal dog named Indy in the film GOOD BOY, a standing ovation film from SXSW this year called FRIENDSHIP, and more.
As the festival approaches, we at Reverie Magazine are eagerly highlighting the screenings we're most excited about. From music documentaries and absurdist comedies to thoughtful dramas and late-night fare, this year's lineup promises something for every discerning film enthusiast. Here's our four picks of can't-miss films at CUFF 2025.
MOVE YA BODY: THE BIRTH OF HOUSE
In partnership with the National Music Centre and our friend's at Sled Island, MOVE YA BODY: THE BIRTH OF HOUSE will come to Calgary for its Canadian premiere fresh from Sundance. MOVE YA BODY interviews a variety of players from the Chicago music scene providing a rich history of the genre. At times catty, and maybe even contradictory, the interviews are lively and the music featured throughout is excellent. A must-watch for lovers of music history.
TWO WOMEN
Quebec filmmaker Chloé Robichaud's latest film is a more enlightened throwback to the sex comedies of the early-2000s. Two friends filled with despair look to shake up their lives and turn to non-monogamy and karaoke. A quirky and raunchy entry into this year's festival, this is a guaranteed good time at the movies!
EBONY & IVORY
CUFF favorite Jim Hosking returns with a delightfully absurd comedy imagining the first meeting between two musical icons. When blind legend Stevie (Gil Gex) travels to a remote Scottish cottage to meet fellow musical giant Paul (Sky Elobar), their tense summit to discuss a potential collaboration leads to unexpected results. From the director of cult-hit THE GREASY STRANGLER, this highly fictionalized account of Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney's creative partnership delivers Hosking's signature deadpan humor and bizarre sensibilities. A must-see for fans of offbeat indie comedies with a musical twist.
FRIENDSHIP
The Opening Night film of this year's festival brings A24's latest comedy gem to Calgary screens. When suburban dad Craig (Tim Robinson) becomes infatuated with his charismatic new neighbor (Paul Rudd), his desperate attempts to forge an adult male friendship spiral hilariously out of control. Comedy writer Andrew DeYoung makes his feature directorial debut with this crowd-pleasing hit from TIFF's Midnight Madness program. An unmissable festival kickoff with a film that will leave you feeling unsure if you should laugh or be horrified at the cringe interactions.
Don't miss out on these incredible films and the many other gems in this year's lineup. Find the complete festival schedule and film details at calgaryundergroundfilm.org, where you can also purchase individual tickets and festival passes. CUFF 2025 runs from April 17-27 at Globe Cinema.