Press & festivals
The Hollywood North.
Vancouver and beyond.
An independent film publication led by Nick Atwal, publishing film criticism and researched stories about Canadian screen culture.
Editor & critic
Nick Atwal
Nick Atwal is the Vancouver-based editor and critic behind The Hollywood North. His reviews begin with the experience of watching: what landed, what confused him, and what stayed afterward. He writes about film as culture and as lived experience, from Hollywood releases to international cinema.
Selected work
Start with the writing.
Review · 7/10Midnight Cowboy1969 · John Schlesinger
Review · 8/10Leaving Las Vegas1995 · Mike Figgis
Review · 9/10Swingers1996 · Doug Liman
Review · 8/10Seven Psychopaths2012 · Martin McDonaghResearch editionHow Vancouver changed the way Hollywood worksAnalysisResearch edition10 famous movies filmed in Vancouver and nearbyLocationsEditorial standards
Independent judgment.
Reviews are Nick’s own opinions. A screener, interview invitation or festival credential does not promise a positive review or coverage. Sourced explainers link to their references; factual corrections can be sent through the contact page. A festival article will identify whether it is a preview, a review of a film actually seen, an interview or reported coverage.
Festival inquiries
Independent festival coverage.
For festival invitations and screening access, please contact the editor with the programme, available viewing options, interview contacts and any embargo terms. Coverage decisions are independent and depend on the films Nick can actually see.
See the festival calendar →Press inquiries
For accreditation, screeners, interview requests or corrections, write to press@thehollywoodnorth.com.
All contact details →