Since its inception in 2006, the Montreal Human Rights Film Festival (MHRFF) has become one of the major cultural manifestations addressing the topic of human rights violations here and elsewhere in the world. This independent and nonpartisan festival celebrates its 5th anniversary this year with presentations of 63 films from 20 countries.

Selections with local appeal include BAS! Au-delà du Red Light, by Australian director Wendy Champagne, who lives in Montreal, the story of 13 young girls who are rescued from Mumbai’s brothels and a choreographer who travels to Mumbai to help them make a music video (Cinema ONF, March 16 @ 5pm).  The world premiere of Les Super Mémés happens next Saturday March 20; this documentary by Canadian director Magnus Isacsson examines the “Raging Grannies,” a senior women’s activist movement devoted to social justice and the environment (Cinema du Parc @ 7:30).

Tickets are $7 for all shows, $5 for students and seniors (ID required). Screenings are being held at venues all over the city; visit http://ffdpm.com for complete listings.