VFF x MPSE Presents: 40th Anniversary Screening of Back to the Future

On June 13, 2025, film lovers, sound professionals, and cinema enthusiasts gathered at the Ted Rogers Hot Docs Cinema in Toronto for an unforgettable celebration of the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future. Hosted by the Vaughan International Film Festival (VFF) in collaboration with the Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE), this exclusive, invite-only event wasn’t just a nostalgic screening—it was a tribute to the power of sound design in shaping the cinematic experience.

The evening kicked off with opening remarks from VFF Founder Antonio Ienco and MPSE President David Barber, highlighting the enduring legacy of the 1985 classic and the often-unsung artistry of audio in film. Guests were then treated to a special screening of Back to the Future, showcasing its iconic visuals and soundscape like never before on the big screen.

Following the screening, attendees enjoyed an Q&A session (WATCH IT HERE) featuring Scott Hecker, MPSE, the acclaimed supervising sound editor behind Back to the Future. The conversation was moderated by MPSE Vice President Eric Marks, offering a rare opportunity to dive deep into the creative process behind one of the most beloved soundtracks in film history. Hecker, known for his work on Mad Max: Fury Road, Total Recall, and many more, shared insightful behind-the-scenes stories and explained how sound brought the film’s futuristic world to life.

As a special bonus, audience members had the chance to win exclusive Back to the Future merchandise, including limited-edition posters signed by Scott Hecker himself. The evening wrapped up with a celebratory gathering at Paupers Pub, where guests connected over food, drinks, and their shared love for film.

This milestone event brought together the film community, industry professionals, and sound design enthusiasts to honour the enduring impact of a cinematic classic—and to spotlight the vital role of audio storytelling in filmmaking.

To everyone who attended, thank you for being part of a night that truly made history.

Back to the Future 40th Anniversary Screening Recap Video