The Thawing of Ice

At 17, Jérémie dreams of a better place, far from the family sawmill and his native village in Bas-Saint-Laurent. The situation despairs his father Régis, who blames a small-time drug dealer for this disinterest. When the older brother leaves, the lives of Jérémie and Régis are turned upside down.

Canada as a refuge for LBGTQ+ immigrants: Yazan from Iraq, Nata from Central Africa, Aida from Iran and Eilyn from Colombia all had to flee their homelands, where violence, threats, hate and rejection prevented them from living their lives and expressing their sexual orientation openly. All they wanted was to be free. From Beirut to Montreal, Quebec City or Vancouver, this ensemble documentary follows the journeys of four people who are determined to change their future. From the terrifying realities they had to flee to the heartbreaking sacrifices they were forced to make, Renaître is a vibrant and luminous tribute to their quiet strength.

Follow three couples who have gained weight during their relationship and want to make a change. Over the course of several months, they will attempt to break old habits and make positive lifestyle changes in an effort to revive their love and mutual attraction.