The Ottawa Film Critics Association (OFCA) is a proposed professional organization for film critics and film journalists working in Ottawa and the National Capital Region, including Gatineau. Its aim is to bring the region’s critics together, support their work and strengthen the place of film criticism in Ottawa’s cultural and media landscape.
Our purpose
Ottawa has an active and diverse film culture, yet its professional film critics and journalists do not currently have a dedicated organization representing their collective interests. OFCA is being developed to help fill that gap: creating a forum where critics can connect, collaborate and support one another, while raising the visibility and value of independent film criticism.
Our mission
To promote, support and strengthen professional film criticism and film journalism in the National Capital Region, while fostering dialogue, professional collaboration, mentorship and editorial independence among its members.
OFCA seeks to represent the range of professional film criticism in the region, including print, digital, broadcast, freelance and independent work, in both English and French.
Our objectives
As the association develops, its initial priorities are to:
- Build a professional network for Ottawa-area film critics and journalists.
- Promote the importance of professional film criticism and cultural journalism.
- Encourage communication and collaboration among critics, festivals, distributors, exhibitors and other film organizations.
- Support access to press screenings, festival screenings, press conferences and other professional opportunities.
- Create opportunities for established critics to mentor and encourage emerging voices.
- Build relationships with film critics’ associations and professional organizations across Canada and internationally.
- Represent regional critics, where appropriate, in discussions with festivals, distributors and cultural institutions.
- Explore the possibility of annual critics’ awards recognizing outstanding filmmaking and performances.
- Encourage high standards of professional ethics, editorial independence and responsible film criticism.
A regional and bilingual community
Film culture in the National Capital Region crosses linguistic and municipal boundaries. OFCA’s proposed scope includes critics working in Ottawa and Gatineau, and its vision is inclusive of professional voices working in English and French across print, digital and broadcast media, as well as freelance and independent journalism.
Land acknowledgement
The Ottawa Film Critics Association acknowledges that the National Capital Region is situated on the unceded, traditional and ancestral territory of the Algonquin Anishinabeg, who have lived on and cared for this land for thousands of years.
We recognize the enduring presence, contributions and stewardship of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada. We honour their distinct cultures, languages, traditions, customs and histories, and recognize that respect, listening and learning are essential to the ongoing work of reconciliation.