Oscar-winning filmmaker, screenwriter and activist Sarah Polley received Toronto’s ceremonial key to the city on Saturday.
Mayor Olivia Chow presented Polley with the key in recognition of her “extraordinary contributions to cinema and her unwavering advocacy for Canadian stories and voices,” from the City of º£½ÇÉçÇø¹ÙÍøsaid.
Polley, who was born and raised in Toronto, began in the industry as a child actress before becoming a notable filmmaker. She won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 2023 for her film, “Women Talking,” which was based on the same-named novel by Canadian author Miriam Toews. Polley was previously nominated for the same award for her 2006 film, “Away from Her.”
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“Polley has received numerous honours, including a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame, appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada and an honorary doctorate from the University of Toronto,” the release said. “Through her commitment to equity, ethical filmmaking and fearless truth-telling, she continues to shape global cinema while championing bold and honest storytelling rooted in her hometown.”
The ceremony occurred during xoTO House, an annual event in celebration of Toronto’s role as a leading hub for film production.
Polley is the second filmmaker in two months to receive Toronto’s key to the city. Oscar-winner Guillermo del Toro was also presented with the honour in recognition of his “creative relationship” with the city in a ceremony in late July.
Anastasia Blosser is a breaking news reporter, working out of
the Star’s radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: ablosser@thestar.ca
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