A Pickering filmmaker’s first feature-length documentary is gaining attention at Canadian film festivals for its examination of political conflict, community activism and public debate in the city.
Brenda Holdsworth’s film, “Hooves Up!,” received the Best Future Documentary award at the 2026 Niagara Canada International Film Festival. The festival’s official winners list, updated June 8, names Holdsworth and the film among this year’s recipients.
The Pickering documentary explores how residents and municipal leaders responded to division, disputed information and controversy that developed in the community after the 2022 municipal election. Much of the film centres on public reactions to statements and actions involving Ward 1 Coun. Lisa Robinson.
Holdsworth said the project grew from concerns shared by residents who believed public comments were harming members of the community and intensifying local divisions. The documentary presents those events through the perspective of residents who decided they could no longer remain silent.
Robinson did not respond to the original publication’s request for comment. Her position and any responses she has made publicly should be represented fairly whenever the film’s claims are discussed.
The documentary arrives after several years of disputes involving Robinson and Pickering council. In June 2026, the city’s integrity commissioner reported that it was the ninth occasion on which Robinson’s conduct had been found to breach council’s code of conduct and a suspension of pay had been imposed.
Previous sanctions have also been reviewed by Ontario courts. The City of Pickering reported that the courts upheld council’s decisions in several cases, including findings connected with code-of-conduct violations and pay suspensions.
Rather than presenting the subject as a traditional political documentary, “Hooves Up!” uses a more theatrical format. The story is guided by Yvonna Vote, described as a drag queen storyteller and newscaster, and Glitter, a unicorn community activist. Holdsworth said this creative approach was intended to reach viewers who might not normally choose to watch a film about municipal politics.
The film combines community interviews, public records and footage connected to events in Pickering. It also examines broader organizing efforts focused on municipal councils and school boards, particularly debates involving diversity, inclusion and LGBTQ+ issues.
Holdsworth said receiving recognition at the Niagara festival was unexpected and encouraging. She hopes the film will reflect the experiences of participating residents while encouraging audiences to become more involved in their communities.
The Pickering documentary is now scheduled for another local festival appearance. “Hooves Up!” is listed in the noon-to-2 p.m. screening block on Saturday, July 25, at the Pickering Canada International Film Festival.
Despite the festival’s name, the official schedule lists the venue as Cloud Nine at 368 Bayly Street West in Ajax. “Hooves Up!” will screen alongside “A Good Day Will Come” during Saturday’s second screening block.
The two-day festival runs July 25 and 26 and includes film screenings, opening ceremonies, networking opportunities and an awards presentation.
Holdsworth has previously produced wedding and music videos and was involved with Wedding Saviours, an initiative that provided wedding support to couples experiencing hardship. She said further local screenings of “Hooves Up!” may be announced for the fall, while the documentary is also expected to appear at festivals in Nova Scotia in September.
The growing festival recognition gives Durham audiences an opportunity to examine a locally produced film about recent political and social tensions in Pickering. It also places a community-centred Durham story before audiences beyond the region.
