Sweeping Forward

Sweeping Forward is a Canadian drama film directed by Patricia MacDowell and released in 2014. The film follows Bess, played by Anne-Marie Saheb, a former curling champion who has faced challenges with her mental health after a difficult childhood. Bess decides to rebuild her life by helping and coaching four young women who are also dealing with their own struggles. Through the sport of curling, she guides them as they learn and work together toward competing.

The film’s cast includes actors such as Lydia Bouchard, Bénédicte Gobert, Sharon James, and others. Sweeping Forward was partly inspired by the director’s own experiences with anxiety disorder and her time working at the Baie-d’Urfé curling club, where many scenes were filmed.

The movie made its debut at the 2014 Montreal World Film Festival, where it was honored with the audience award for Best Canadian Film.