2nd Pride Asian Film Festival

A New Essential on the Toronto Film Calendar

Toronto’s film scene is famously crowded, but the Pride Asian Film Festival (PAFF) has carved out a space that feels both urgent and long overdue. Returning for its second edition from May 28 to May 31, 2026, PAFF isn't interested in the mainstream blockbusters you’ve already seen on streaming services. Instead, it acts as a curator for the stories that often get sidelined: narratives centering on the LGBTQ2S+ community, racial minorities, and those navigating the world with accessibility needs. By positioning itself as a non-profit dedicated to these specific intersections, PAFF is doing the heavy lifting of amplifying voices that are frequently ignored by traditional distribution models.

Why North York Matters

Choosing Cineplex Cinemas Empress Walk in North York is a deliberate and smart move. While many of Toronto’s film festivals cluster tightly around the downtown core or the TIFF Lightbox, PAFF brings high-calibre, independent Asian cinema directly to the heart of North York. This neighbourhood is a cultural powerhouse in its own right, home to one of the city’s most vibrant Asian communities. Hosting the festival here makes it accessible to the very people whose stories are being told on screen, shifting the centre of gravity away from the usual downtown haunts and into a space that feels like home for many of its attendees.

The Power of the Program

Following a successful inaugural run in 2025, the 2026 edition is poised to deepen its impact. The festival’s mission—fostering unity and pride—is woven into the fabric of its programming. You can expect a mix of features and shorts that challenge the monolithic view of 'Asian cinema.' These aren't just films from Asia; they are films that explore the complex, often messy, and deeply beautiful reality of being queer and Asian in a global context. Whether it’s a documentary highlighting the struggles of marginalized activists or a narrative feature pushing the boundaries of gender expression, the festival is designed to spark conversations that continue long after the credits roll.

Making a Night of It

One of the best parts about the Empress Walk location is the sheer volume of dining options right at your doorstep. North York Centre is a goldmine for authentic Asian cuisine. If you’re looking for a post-film debrief, skip the chain restaurants and head to one of the many nearby spots specializing in hand-pulled noodles, spicy Szechuan, or late-night Korean BBQ. The area is bustling, neon-lit, and perfect for a post-screening walk to process what you’ve just watched.

Good to Know

• **Getting There:** The venue is incredibly easy to reach. Take Line 1 (Yonge-University) to North York Centre Station. The cinema is directly connected to the station, meaning you won’t have to worry about the unpredictable late-May weather.
• **Stay Updated:** Because this is a non-profit, volunteer-driven festival, schedules can sometimes shift. Keep a close eye on the official PAFF website or their social media channels for the most recent updates on ticket releases and special guest Q&As.
• **Accessibility:** Given the festival’s explicit mission to support individuals with accessibility needs, the venue choice is intentional. Cineplex Empress Walk offers modern accessibility features, but it’s always a good idea to check the specific screening room details if you have particular requirements.
• **Tickets:** As a smaller, mission-driven festival, tickets tend to move faster than you might expect. Don't wait until the day of—book your passes early to ensure you don't miss out on the opening night highlights.