TFN was pleased to present the Monarch Ultra, a film about a team of ultra runners and environmentalists following the flight of the monarch butterfly by running the same distance of 4,300km from southern Ontario to central Mexico.
From the opening scenes, Monarch Ultra drew viewers in with its stunning cinematography and compelling storytelling. The journey it captured—both physically across landscapes and emotionally through the challenges faced along the way—resonated deeply. The audience remained visibly engaged throughout, with moments of awe, quiet reflection, and even a few laughs as the narrative unfolded.
With 50 people in attendance, the screening struck a perfect balance: large enough to feel like a shared event, yet intimate enough to foster a sense of connection. After the film, people lingered to talk. Several attendees admitted they had come in thinking it might be a straightforward nature documentary, only to discover a rich, layered story about endurance, connection, and the natural world. Many wondered why the film hasn’t been shown more widely. (The film was released in 2020.)
The film deepened our appreciation for monarch butterflies and the challenges they face, illustrated the ecologically barren acres of monoculture crops they must cross, and surprised us with depictions of the celebrations and community spirit around the butterflies in Mexico.
By all accounts, this screening was a success. Not just because 50 people showed up, but because they left inspired, surprised, and eager to learn more.
The Monarch Ultra Project continues to organize exciting running events in conjunction with Monarch Festivals across Canada, the USA, and Mexico. These events bring together passionate runners and nature enthusiasts, united in celebrating the beauty of the monarch butterfly migration while promoting environmental awareness and community connection. The 2026 Monarch Festival in Peterborough is Sep19, 2026.