Box of Freedom

In the still-harsh world of post-Communist Romania, where many ex-party figures still hold power, blacklisted comedienne Dora is a defiant, mirthful beacon for freedom. Realizing her life is in danger, she flees Europe in a cargo ship’s container bound for Canada. Using humor as a survival strategy, Dora writes and performs new comedic material to the other two passengers in the container.

Free screening. Advance booking is recommended.

Q&A with filmmaker Adelina Șuvagău

Romanian-Canadian award-winning director Adelina Șuvagău has built a remarkable career spanning over three decades in film, television, and documentary production. After moving to Vancouver in 1995, she founded Sonia Productions Inc. and has since directed more than 900 one-hour television episodes, several documentaries, a play, and two feature films. Her acclaimed dramatic feature Box of Freedom (2020), which she co-wrote, directed, and produced, stars Sonia Suvagau and tells the story of a comedienne who risks everything for the right to speak freely after the fall of Communism in Romania. A strong voice for independent filmmaking in Canada, Adelina has served as President of Cineworks and Director of Professional Development for the Documentary Organization of Canada, BC Chapter. Recognized among the Top 100 Romanians Everywhere in 2021, she continues to explore themes of freedom, identity, and resilience through her work.