Ultra Strong Review

October 4, 2026 at 7:44pm
By Jason Stettner

Catherine’s journey through this short film is a rather interesting look at attempting to find one’s place in society and life. The supposed need to toughen one’s self to handle the “princes” she aims for and finding something more in the process. It’s certainly got a bit of charm to it as an autofictional story from Catherine Lepage.

A look at life, change and the passage of time to eventually reach some level of personal enlightenment. Starting out young with certain hopeful aspirations, then trying to work towards those and eventually hopefully sliding into something that just fits. There’s excellent narration here from Régine Chassagne that carries a rather musically entwined adventure.

There’s even some Iron Maiden going on in this one with specifically noted special participation from Bruce Dickinson which might give you a laugh if you’re aware of that performer. It’s got an interesting message to it and I found it to be a vibrant viewing experience.

The art direction here was really delightful to take in. Quite colorful and filled to the brim with little things going on backed by some charming musically inclusions. It’s simple in presentation, but it really works in how effective the visuals back the specific focus.

Wanting something, trying to find that with some issues and then attempting to toughen one’s self to try and reach that. Then questioning the purpose, or finding oneself in the process. Maybe even being comfortable with the notion of who you are, I’m sure you get what I mean.

The Conclusion

Ultra Strong is visually striking providing some charming audio to back up a rather distinct messaging. It’s a fun adventure to go on with some wild hairstyles, laughs to be had and a presentation of growth over time.

The weird ups and downs one might go on in the pursuit of what they want, maybe more romantically here but even for one’s self in general in terms of desire. The changing paths that direction might take. It’s certainly got a great charm to it and I found it be a fun venture to go on over the course of this short film offering.

Ultra Strong Review at Home with Streamed Viewing during Calgary Film Festival
Screening Provided by The National Film Board of Canada

Rating Overall: 8.4