Sarah Polley Receives Toronto’s Key to the City
This weekend in Toronto, a truly special moment unfolded when Oscar-winning filmmaker Sarah Polley was presented with the city’s ceremonial key. The honour was given by Mayor Olivia Chow, and it was more than just a symbolic gesture—it was a recognition of Polley’s extraordinary contributions to cinema and her unwavering commitment to telling Canadian stories on the global stage.
Polley, who grew up in Toronto, is no stranger to the spotlight. She began her career as a child actress, appearing on screens long before she ever stepped behind the camera. Over time, she transitioned into directing and writing, carving out a voice that is both deeply personal and socially conscious. Her work has been widely celebrated, not just for its artistry but also for its ability to spark conversations about justice, equity, and truth in storytelling.
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Many people will remember her Academy Award win in 2023 for Best Adapted Screenplay . That honour came for her film Women Talking , an adaptation of the novel by Canadian author Miriam Toews. The film resonated around the world, showcasing both her skill as a filmmaker and her ability to amplify Canadian voices in a way that feels universal. It wasn’t her first brush with Oscar recognition either—she had previously been nominated back in 2006 for her film Away from Her , which also garnered widespread praise.
But her accolades extend far beyond Hollywood. Polley has already been named an Officer of the Order of Canada, received a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame, and even holds an honorary doctorate from the University of Toronto. These honours underline just how much she has given to Canadian culture, and how powerfully she has represented her country on an international stage.
The key to the city was presented during xoTO House, an annual event that highlights Toronto’s role as a leading hub in film production. The timing was fitting, as the city is once again buzzing with film-related celebrations. And it’s worth noting that Polley isn’t the only filmmaker to be recognized recently—just a couple of months ago, Guillermo del Toro was also presented with the key to the city, a nod to his creative connection with Toronto.
What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that Sarah Polley has never strayed far from her roots. Through her fearless approach to storytelling, she has continued to champion voices that often go unheard, always staying grounded in her Canadian identity. The city’s gesture wasn’t just about celebrating her past achievements—it was also about acknowledging the ongoing role she plays in shaping cinema today.
So, as Toronto handed over the key, it wasn’t just honouring an artist—it was honouring one of its own, someone who has taken the heart of this city and carried it into stories that continue to move audiences around the world.
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