Village Keeper Wins Big at 2025 Canadian Screen Awards
“Village Keeper” has captured hearts and honors by winning at the 2025 Canadian Screen Awards. Directed by Karen Chapman and produced by Filipino-Canadian Enrique Miguel Baniqued, the film earned the prestigious John Dunning Best First Feature Film Award. This victory marks a significant milestone not only for the team behind the film but also for immigrant storytellers across Canada.
Baniqued shared with local media, “It made me feel deeply blessed. As a newcomer to Canada who immigrated just five years ago, winning Best First Feature Film at the Canadian Screen Awards, the Canadian film industry’s top distinction, feels like a dream I never imagined would come true so soon.” He added, “Village Keeper was made with so much heart, and to have it recognized on this level—especially as my first film—means the world. It’s a win not just for our team, but for every immigrant storyteller/newcomer carving out space in a new home.”
A Story of Courage and Resilience
The film “Village Keeper” explores the struggles of a family confronting painful secrets tied to domestic abuse and hidden anger. After a sharp fall into poverty, Jean moves her children back to the community housing project where she was raised, seeking refuge with their grandmother. Jean lives in constant fear, doing everything she can to protect her children. When a violent incident occurs nearby, she cleans an abandoned crime scene, unknowingly setting off a journey of self-discovery and breaking generational silence.
According to sources, the film also received nominations for Best Motion Picture, Best Lead Performance in a Drama, Best Supporting Performance in a Drama, and Best Original Screenplay. “Village Keeper” is set for release in the Philippines this November, promising to inspire audiences with its heartfelt narrative.
Filipino-Canadian Talent and Other Awards
At the same ceremony, Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto, known for roles in “Nine Perfect Strangers” and “The Acolyte,” was honored with the Radius Award. Other notable winners included “Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent” for Best Drama Series and “Children Ruin Everything” for Best Comedy Series.
Supinder Wraich from “Allegiance” took home Best Lead Performer in a Drama Series, while Andrew Phung of “Run the Burbs” earned Best Lead Performer in Comedy. The film “The Apprentice” triumphed as Best Motion Picture, with Sebastian Stan winning Best Leading Role in a Drama and Cate Blanchett honored for Best Leading Role in a Comedy.
The 2025 Canadian Screen Awards celebrated 149 achievements spanning film, television, and digital media. “Canada’s Drag Race” led with eight awards, including Best Reality/Competition Program, while “Wynonna Earp: Vengeance” secured seven awards, including Best TV Movie.
Industry Leaders Praise Canadian Storytelling
Tammy Frick, CEO of the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television, remarked, “The 2025 Canadian Screen Awards have been an extraordinary showcase of everything that makes our screen-based industries exceptional, honoring the creators, performers, and visionaries shaping Canadian storytelling.”
This year’s ceremony showcased the growing diversity and talent shaping Canada’s cultural landscape, highlighting stories that resonate deeply with audiences at home and abroad.
For more news and updates on Filipino-Canadian achievements and film, visit Filipinokami.com.