Pop-punk icon draws fans to powerful documentary and live performance in downtown Kingston.
The Kingston Canadian Film Festival returned to downtown Kingston this week, celebrating homegrown cinema with screenings, Q-and-As and special events.
Founded in 2001, the festival is the largest in the world dedicated exclusively to Canadian film. The 2026 edition runs Feb. 25 to March 1, transforming theatres and unique venues across the city into hubs of storytelling and discussion.
On Thursday night, the spotlight turned to Bif Naked at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts. Fans packed the venue for BIF NAKED: The Documentary, followed by a question-and-answer session and an acoustic performance.
Directed by Polyanna Hardwicke-Brown and Jennifer Abott, the film explores the singer’s rise in the 1990s and her battles with cancer, stroke and other serious health challenges.
Bif Naked says her life still holds more adventure.
Known for her raw honesty and punk ethos, the pop-punk pioneer has long pushed back against industry norms. Thursday’s event celebrated not just her music, but her resilience and lasting impact on Canadian culture.
She is also known for setting a strong example for young women across Canada. She says never giving up is the key.
And if Thursday night was any indication, Bif Naked’s story — and her influence — is far from finished.
The Kingston Canadian Film Festival continues through Sunday with screenings and special events across the city.
Story by Alyssa Brush
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