Trevor Anderson’s debut feature takes on the complexity of the gender binary with this touching and retro story of young American nonbinary teen Robin, now a transplant in 1987 Edmonton, and their journey to fit in with their peers and ingratiate themself with the high school bully. —M.G. As the new kid from the States, Robin aches to fit in at their new school in Alberta, Canada. Almost immediately, Robin is drawn to the class bully Carter, and is determined to gain his approval at any cost. As their budding friendship flirts with the idea of something more, the two meet the mesmerizing Izzy through a production at the community theater. Fickle feelings emerge—friendships, crushes, and jealousy—and Robin begins to see their peers—and themselves—for who they really are. BEFORE I CHANGE MY MIND, a tussle of dangerous peer pressure and teen insecurities set to a killer 80s synth soundtrack, illustrates the unthinkable lows one can travel to for the sake of acceptance. —A.B.

Before I Change My Mind

International Narrative Competition

These films are friendly for our teen audience, but appeal to adults too!* CIFF films are not rated by the MPAA, so we advise viewer discretion for all films.

Teen-Friendly Films

Films focusing on issues, topics, and stories from LGBTQ+ communities.