Article adapted from BlogTO, written by Kimia Afshar Mehrabi
Six years in the making, MORNINGSIDE emerges as a powerful exploration of community, change, and connection in Toronto's east end. Director Ron Dias, whose journey from YouTube creator to acclaimed filmmaker includes the successful web series "Friends with Benefits" and his feature debut Bite of a Mango, returns with an intimate portrait of his beloved Scarborough.
"I experienced a lot growing up in Scarborough, and I wanted to see it in cinema," Dias shares. "Everyone thinks Scarborough is such a dark, disturbing, violent place. It's not, and I want to showcase people's life experiences living there."
The film weaves together the lives of seven diverse characters whose paths intersect at a local community centre, brought to life by an exceptional ensemble cast including Juno Award winner Fefe Dobson, Lovell Adams-Gray (Power Book II: Ghost), Kiana Madeira (Fear Street), Alex Mallari Jr. (Ginny and Georgia), Joanne Jansen (Shadowhunters), Olunike Adeliyi (The Porter), and Brandon McKnight (The Flash).
Beyond its narrative, MORNINGSIDE serves as a time capsule of a changing neighborhood. The film captures iconic locations like The Real McCoy, a legendary burger joint forced to relocate after 53 years due to development, and the historic Warden Station's Bakery on the Go, whose 25-year legacy recently came to an end. These locations aren't just backdrops – they're characters themselves, representing the community's ongoing struggle with gentrification and change.
The production team's commitment to community extends beyond the screen. Through partnerships with the Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough (BGC Scarborough) and initiatives supporting affordable housing, MORNINGSIDE actively contributes to the neighborhood it portrays.
For aspiring filmmakers, Dias offers encouraging words: "Go make your art. Don't wait for someone to give you the green light, because it's never going to happen that way. As long as you put yourself in a position where you want that thing and you go for it, things just start to happen for you."
MORNINGSIDE arrives in theatres February 21, 2025. Advanced tickets are available now
