Special Presentation: STOP FILMING US
Wednesday, February 4, 2026 - 6:45 pm
presented in partnership by NorthwestFilmFest University of Alberta and The Alberta Council for Global Cooperation
Stop Filming Us
Directed by Joris Postema | 95 min | Netherlands | 2020
In response to the struggles of young people in Goma (Northeastern Congo) against the prevailing Western reporting on war and misery, Stop Filming Us investigates how these Western stereotypes result from a skewed balance of power. After years of negative press, Director Joris Postema arrives in Goma to shine a light on the city's positive side and, hopefully, give the world a new perspective on it altogether. However, there's one small issue with Postema's plan: some locals begin to question whether his presence will really improve their image... or if they even want to be filmed after years of misrepresentation. While the Congolese perspective becomes increasingly clear in the film, questions arise about the film's perspective; is a white director able to make a film about the new Congolese image, or is it primarily a story shaped by his own Western perspective?
In Stop Filming Us, filmmaker Joris Postema vividly depicts the struggles that journalist Ley Uwera, photographer Mugabo Baritegera, and filmmaker Bernadette Vivuya face when trying to capture and share their own experiences of life in Goma. Ultimately, Stop Filming Us is a genuine conversation-starter and a fascinating look at the challenges we face when comparing ourselves to other cultures.
6:15pm: Doors
6:45pm: Opening remarks & film screening
8:30pm: Post-Screening Panel (Special Guests TBD)
In partnership with the University of Alberta, we are excited to present this FREE screening!