Montreal's free open-air film festival is returning to the Lachine Canal this summer

Suspense takes centre stage this summer at Montreal's favourite waterfront film festival. From July 14 to August 18, Film Noir au Canal is bringing free screenings of noir cinema classics and modern thrillers to Square Saint-Patrick every Sunday night. The only thing not shrouded in mystery is the price — it's all free.

Since 2015, this festival has turned the Lachine Canal into a noir lover's dream. Each evening kicks off with live music and cinephile presentations at 7:30 p.m., followed by the main screening.

Selected movies are announced a week in advance for an added element of surprise. Past hits have included Hitchcock’s Rear Window and Scorsese’s The Departed, so you know it's going to be good.

Square Saint-Patrick, at the corner of Wellington and Saint-Patrick streets, is a grassy expanse that's accessible from Bonaventure metro, or by bike, kayak, or car. The west-side parking lot has been replaced by volleyball courts, so if you drive there, you'll have to park in the street.

You should bring your own chairs or blankets, as no rentals are available. Snacks are also a good idea since food is not sold on-site.

For updates on the film schedule and other event details, you can follow Film Noir au Canal on Facebook. Fans of gritty screenplays and thrilling cinema are sure to feel right at home by the canal.