■ The Process with Larry Weinstein – Get a sneak peek at the latest work by filmmaker Larry Weinstein (Mozart Balls, Inside Hana’s Suitcase): a “controversial political opera” about a former Canadian prime minister. Weinstein will walk the audience through the mostly-completed work, which will premiere across Canada April 16. 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 5 at the Odeon.
■ Springboard Talks – Want to learn more about how a film is marketed? How about what makes Canadian actor Don McKellar tick? Don’t miss Springboard, where a wide range of Canadian film folk will each give a 15-minute presentation on a topic of their choice. 1:30-3:20 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 5 and 1:30-3:45 Sunday, Feb. 6 at Cap 6
■ Springboard Industry – This special industry program includes opportunities for one-on-one pitching sessions, master classes on topics like the multimedia landscape and networking receptions. A great opportunity for folks interested in the biz. Friday-Sunday, Feb. 4-6 at various locations.
■ A Literary View with Ron Mann – Stylish, celebrated filmmaker Ron Mann (Know Your Mushrooms, Grass, Tales of the Rat Fink) returns to VFF with In the Wake of the Flood, a short documentary about Margaret Atwood’s 2009 book tour. Instead of taking the typical tour approach, Atwood decided to create a “theatrical choral version” of her latest dystopian novel, The Year of the Flood. 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6 at Cap 6.
■ Dinner and More than a Movie – Once again, the Superior hosts an evening of delicious nosh, with saucy films for dessert. After a tapas-style dinner, enjoy a program of short erotic films. This event often sells out, so get tickets early. 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb. 8 and 9 at the Superior.
■ Converge — Take in shorts at the Victoria Bug Zoo, the Empress, a local radio station – or maybe even the middle of the street. Grab a wristband at the Oyster Bar (514 Homboldt) or the Parkside Victoria (810 Humboldt) and let the games begin. 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 12.
■ Sips ’n’ Cinema –Like to pair your movie-watching with a fine wine or crisp cocktail? Catch two chances to sip and chat post-cinema: one at the Legacy Gallery, where you’ll enjoy wine and hor d’oeuvres after Lesson Plan, the other at Veneto, where one can try a wide range of cocktails while nibbling on appies after watching Fathers and Sons. 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 12 (Lesson Plan) and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 13 (Fathers and Sons). Advance tickets only.