Moving Radio

Christian Zyp interviews Jon Spira (director/screenwriter) about the documentary THE LIFE AND DEATHS OF CHRISTOPHER LEE. It screens as part of CUFF.Docs Sunday November 24th, 2024 at 6:30pm at the Globe CInema.

Christopher Lee’s story would be fascinating, even if it only went as far as audiences already know; that of an iconic actor who defined the role of Dracula and went from being the star of the 1960s Hammer horror films to a distinguished career encompassing the 007, STAR WARS, and LORD OF THE RINGS franchises. But there is so much more to the life and career of Sir Christopher Lee. From Italian aristocratic roots through his wartime experiences in the Finnish and British military, his post-war Nazi-hunting spy adventures (perhaps making him the inspiration for James Bond, which was written by his cousin), and his unequalled acting career which culminated in a Guinness World Record for highest number of screen performances.

www.jonspira.co.uk/

Lucas Anders interviews Jenny Carchman (director) about the documentary WHATEVER IT TAKES. It makes its Alberts Premiere Wednesday November 20th, 2024 at 9:00 pm as part of CUFF.Docs at the Globe Cinema in Calgary. https://www.calgaryundergroundfilm.org/cuff-docs/2024/whatever-it-takes/

WHATEVER IT TAKES is the extraordinary true-crime story of a middle-aged couple subjected to cyberstalking threats by the Fortune 500 company eBay. In the summer of 2019, Ina and David Steiner started being harassed online and receiving bizarre deliveries to their suburban home, including a bloody pig mask and funeral wreath. As the harassment against the two e-commerce bloggers intensified, the police and FBI closed in on a Silicon Valley giant and some very unlikely suspects. Founded on the principle that "people are basically good,” WHATEVER IT TAKES tells the story of the legal case, the toxic work culture at eBay, and how members of the security team ended up in federal prison. This is a timely true crime caper about dysfunction, the disintegration of ethics, and a couple of unsuspecting journalists whose lives are changed forever.

Christian Zyp interviews Peter Hays (director) about the documentary FLASHBACK about the legendary club from the 80's nightlife scene in Edmonton. Catch the screening of FLASHBACK at CUFF.Docs Saturday November 23rd,2024  @ 4:45pm at the Globe CInema in Calgary. Peter will be in attendance for a Q&A post screening. 
 
FLASHBACK is the story of a defiant disco dance culture of sweat and sex and drugs and fashion in Edmonton. It became a sensation on the international club circuit despite police raids, threats of violence and the scourge of AIDS. Even though the club is no more, it comes alive again in the memories of the people who were there and the legends they left behind.

https://www.flashbackdocumentary.ca/

Christian Zyp interviews Neil Grahn (prod/dir) about the documentary series HORSE WARRIORS. It airs on APTN in Canada and will screen as part of CUFF.Docs Saturday November 23rd, 2024 at 12pm. CUFF.Docs will be showing Episodes 1, 7, 8, and 13 – the series finale, ahead of its broadcast on APTN. There will also be a post screening Q&A with participants from the show. 

HORSE WARRIORS is a 13 episode docuseries from Neil Grahn and Dominique Keller that follows three dedicated teams as they train, compete and strive for victory in the North American Indian Relay Championships. This thrilling series captures the unique challenges each team faces, from balancing work and family responsibilities to overcoming injuries and personal strife. Featuring both male and female athletes, the show highlights the significant roles women play in this demanding sport. Find out more at https://www.aptn.ca/media-centre/shows/horse-warriors/

Christian Zyp interviews Matthew Bauckman and Jaret Belliveau (co-directors) about their documentary KUNG FU ELLIOT. Released originally in 2014, CUFF.Docs is having a 10th anniversary screening of the film on Sunday November 24th, 2024 at 9pm at the Globe Cinema in Calgary.

KUNG FU ELLIOT tell the bizarre story of Elliot "White Lightning" Scott, a martial artist with big ambitions: he's determined to become Canada's first kung fu action hero with his low-budget karate epic, BLOOD FIGHT. This surreal documentary captures two years in the lives of a passionate amateur filmmaker, his supportive partner Linda Lum, and their cast and crew of outrageous dreamers striving to achieve success.

https://www.kungfuelliot.com/

Christian Zyp interviews Alex Lamb and Max Well (co-directors/co-producers) about the documentary THE DONN OF TIKI. It is the Opening Night film for CUFF.Docs on Wednesday November 20th, 2024 at 6:30pm at the Globe Cinema in Calgary. Max Well will be in attendance for a post screening Q&A.

THE DONN OF TIKI is the incredulous story of Donn Beach, creator of the Tiki Bar, and perhaps the most important influencer of modern-day cocktails and bar aesthetics. Better known as "Don the Beachcomber," Ernest Raymond Beaumont Gantt was an American maverick famous for telling entertaining, if unverifiable, stories about his life. There are slivers of truth to his tales – a youth spent in Jamaica, running rum during prohibition, hunting down cigars and liquor for troops in World War II. By combining audio from a 1986 interview with stop-motion animation reminiscent of a 1960s Christmas special, Donn comes to life. As we learn about Donn's travels through The South Seas, bootlegging in 1920s Hollywood, scavenging for liquor in Europe during WWII, and creating authentic travel experiences in Hawaii in the 1950s, we begin to understand who he was as a person, what drove him to do the things he did, and how his influence is still felt today.

www.thedonnoftiki.com/

Christian Zyp interviews Marah Strauch (director/producer) and Bryce LeavittI (director) about their documentary SPACE COWBOY. It makes its Alberta Premiere at CUFF.Docs on Saturday November 23rd, 2024 at 2:30pm at the Globe Cinema in Calgary.

SPACE COWBOY focuses on Joe Jennings, a pioneer of skydiving cinematography, as he looks back on creating iconic moments in film and television, while he tries to turn a dreamlike vision into reality. An innovator in the world of skydiving, Joe spent decades capturing breathtaking aerial moments with his camera for extreme sports competitions, Super Bowl commercials, and Hollywood blockbusters. Now, at 62, this pioneering skydiver is taking on a new challenge, elevating his art with a daring “flying car” stunt. Through stunning archival footage, revealing interviews, and dramatic verité, SPACE COWBOY uncovers a deeper emotional journey as Joe navigates loss, depression, and the challenge of balancing a life in the sky with the realities on the ground.

https://spacecowboymovie.com/

Christian Zyp interviews Matthew Salleh (director/cinematographer) & Rose Tucker (producer) about their documentary SLICE OF LIFE: THE AMERICAN DREAM. IN FORMER PIZZA HUTS. See the Canadian Premiere of this film at CUFF.Docs Saturday November 23rd, 2024 at the Globe CInema at 7:15pm.

A contemporary portrait of America, told through a collection of stories observed within the walls of former Pizza Hut buildings across the country. These nostalgic spaces hold memories of a bygone era, but through the power of transformation, they provide something new and special for the communities that continue to flow through them. From an LGBTQ+ church in Florida, to a karaoke bar in Texas, to a cannabis dispensary in rural Colorado, these modern-day portraits are paralleled with the origin story of Pizza Hut - one of America's most iconic brands, and the two brothers who founded the company in Wichita, Kansas in 1958.

Christian Zyp interviews Gabri Christa (director) about her experimental dance short film SHEILA. It is screening as part of BROAD VIEW INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL on Fri Nov 8th at 9pm at Metro Cinema.

sheila is a short experimental documentary about Sheila Rohan, one of the founding members of Dance Theater of Harlem. "It is in many ways an experimental short bio documentary, part dream, but above all I hope it conveys the mystery and strength of this talented, remarkable, inspirational, strong, elegant and kind woman who I am lucky to know. I want the world to know her too and feel the magic of her presence." - Gabri Christa

Christian Zyp interviews Rosanna Terracciano (director/choreographer/editor) about the experimental dance short film "PLACE/is a city written on this body?" You can see it as part of BROAD VIEW INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL on Fri Nov 8th at 9pm at Metro CInema. Rosanna will be in attendance at the screening to participate in a discussion of the films with member from Mile Zero Dance. 

"PLACE/is a city written on this body?" centers on a trilogy of improvised and choreographed chapters based on cities that Terracciano has a connection with. First Napoli, the birthplace of her parents. Then Sevilla, a foundational city for her work in flamenco experimentation. FInally Calgary, where she was raised and developed into an artist.

Christian Zyp interviews several people from the EDMONTON UNDERGROUND FILM FESTIVAL (EUFF). Joining the conversation is Christine Miller (Creative Director) and filmmakers Allan Halls, Sandy MacLellan, Eryn Tempest and Matthew Gooding. EUFF is a curated collection of 32 short films that celebrate creative, low-budget filmmaking and exude creative freedom, energy and experimentation. See EUFF at The Aviary (9314 111 Avenue NW) Sunday Oct 20th. Doors open at 12pm and tickets are available at the door and online. 

Christian Zyp interviews Marc Coleman (writer/director) about his new film MEMBERS CLUB. It's screening Oct 16th, 2024 at 9:30pm as part of NorthWest Fear Fest at the Metro Cinema.

In MEMBERS CLUB, "Wet Dreams," a middle-aged male stripper group, have hit rock bottom. After a string of disastrous gigs, the gang considers disbanding. Alan, the group's happy-go-lucky front man, takes over the business and books the boys a lucrative and mysterious gig in rural Essex. But when the group arrives at the desolate club, their night quickly turns dark when they find themselves tangled up in a plot to raise a murderous 16th-century witch from the dead! Marc Coleman's outrageous, splattery, wildly entertaining horror comedy is an unholy meeting of "The Full Monty" and "Green Room", filled with winning performances and big laughs, as only the British can do!

Christian Zyp interviews Guy Lavallee (Festival Director) about the 2024 lineup for Northwest Fear Fest. All screenings take place at Metro Cinema from Oct 16-22.

Guy discusses several of the films screening at NWFF. The Closing Night film is PHANTOM OF THE PARADISE with special guest Paul WIlliams. Other films featured that will be Alberta Premieres SMILE 2, HEAVIER TRIP, HUSH - SHUSH CUT and more. There are also 40th anniversary screenings of screenings of A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET and FRIDAY THE 13th: THE FINAL CHAPTER. Northwest Fear Fest also features Canadian genre films SCARED SHITLESS and MOM as well as short films before the majority of the screenings.

Christian Zyp interviews writer/director Steven Kostanski (Psycho Goreman, The Void, Leprechaun Returns) about his film FRANKIE FREAKO. It screens at Metro Cinema on Oct 6th, 7th and 10th, 2024.

In FRANKIE FREAKO, Connor (Connor Sweeney) calls a late-night party hotline that promises out-of-this-world fun. Once he hangs up the phone, he unleashes three pint-sized forces of evil led by the maniacal rock ‘n’ roll goblin Frankie Freako and his life will never be the same.

Lucas Anders interviews cinematographer Daniel Katz about his work on the Ant TImpson film BOOKWORM starring Elijah Wood. See it as part of the Edmonton International Film Festival on Wed, Oct 2nd, 6:30 PM at Landmark Cinemas 9 City Centre.

In BOOKWORM, eleven-year-old Mildred’s life is turned upside down when her mother lands in hospital and estranged, American magician father, Strawn Wise, comes to look after her. Hoping to entertain the bookish tween, Strawn takes Mildred camping in the notoriously rugged New Zealand wilderness, and the pair embark on the ultimate test of family bonding – a quest to find the mythological beast known as the Canterbury Panther.

Lucas Anders interviews Michael Clowater (writer/director) about his film DRIVE BACK HOME. It screens as part of the Edmonton International Film Festival Fri, Sep 27th, 6:30 PM at Landmark Cinemas City centre with a Q&A with director Michael Clowater after. The encore screening is on Tue, Oct 1st, 4:00 PM at Landmark Cinemas 9 City Centre as well.

DRIVE BACK HOME starts Alan Cumming. It's the winter of 1970, a conservative plumber from a small east coast village who travels to Toronto in order to get his brother out of jail after he is arrested for having sex with another man in a public park. At the insistence of their strong willed mother, the two brothers must drive the 1000 mile trip back home to New Brunswick, together - discovering each other and themselves along the way. Inspired by a true story.

Christian Zyp interviews Joel Stewart (director) about the film SOUL'S ROAD. It screens as part of the Edmonton International Film Festival on Sun, Sep 29th, 7:30 PM (SOLD OUT) and Wed, Oct 2nd, 2:00 PM @ Landmark Cinemas 9 City Centre.

SOUL'S ROAD follows Ronan Garrett (country star Dallas Smith), a disgraced rock star who returns to his hometown and people he had forsaken a decade earlier. Following massive success, and an even more massive fall from grace, Ronan returns with little more than a suitcase, a well-worn knit cap, and a heart full of regret. Reconnecting with the town he once knew, he also rediscovers his passion for music.

Christian Zyp interviews co-hosts/producers Jessica Truong, Salvador Garcia (a.k.a. food reviewer Fat Sal), and Cynthia Lo about the docuseries EATING EDMONTON.

The series EATING EDMONTON uses food, the people who make it, and their experiences as second-generation immigrants to tell richer stories about Edmonton communities. It premieres in full on TELUS Optik TV on Sept. 24, though the episodes will be staggered for release on STORYHIVE’s YouTube page starting the same day.

Christian Zyp interviews Karen Chapman (writer/director) about her feature film VILLAGE KEEPER. It screens as part of the Edmonton International FIlm Festival Mon, Sep 30th, 7:00 PM @ Landmark Cinemas 9 City Centre. There will be a Q&A following this screening with director Karen Chapman and producer Enrique Miguel Baniqued.

In VILLAGE KEEPER, Jean is a widow paralyzed by anxiety and struggles to protect her kids in a Toronto neighborhood gripped by violence. As her kids grow and find themselves desperate for independence, and as her mother hides secrets from her own past from her, Jean tries to find happiness and peace. However while finding solace in cleaning, she inadvertently uncovers her own long-buried trauma while tidying a bloody crime scene.

Christian Zyp interviews Lowell Dean (director/writer) about two different films he helmed, DARK MATCH and DIE ALONE. You can see DARK MATCH as part of the Edmonton International Film Festival Sat Sept 28th @ 6:30pm at Landmark CIty Centre Cinemas with Lowell Dean in attendance for a pot-screening Q&A. See DIE ALONE in Cineplex Odeon theatres across Canada on Sept 27th, 2024.

In DARK MATCH, Miss Behave and her fellow wrestlers reach a creepy destination for an unsanctioned car. They realize too late that the weekend won’t go as planned. Once the event begins, Miss and her friends are pitted against each other, one at a time, in a kill or be killed event that’s part gladiator match, part ritual sacrifice.

In DIE ALONE (starring Carrie-Anne Moss and Frank Girllo) a young man with amnesia bands together with a rugged survivalist after a devastating virus causes a zombie-like outbreak.

Christian Zyp interviews John Makens (director/producer) about the documentary ART AND LIFE: THE STORY OF JIM PHILLIPS. See it as part of the Edmonton International Film Festival on Thu, Oct 3rd at 7:30 PM @ Landmark Cinemas 9 City Centre.

A pioneer of graphic art, Jim Phillips, known for his bold and visceral imagery, has left an indelible mark on the world of rock posters, surf, and skateboard art. Drawing inspiration from his life in Santa Cruz, California, Jim's journey from publishing his first artwork in Surfer Quarterly in 1962, and all the way to becoming the art director for Santa Cruz Skateboards, shaping the golden era of skateboarding. This documentary explores Jim's dynamic life and career, showcasing his iconic work that has not only defined an era but has also secured his place in modern art history. Reflecting on a life lived with fervor, Jim's story is a profound narrative of resilience, passion, and enduring artistic vision.

Christian Zyp interviews Jamie Rafn (director/screenwriter/producer) about his indie rom-com NEAR MISS. See it at the Edmonton International Film Festival Tue, Oct 1st, 6:30 PM @ Landmark Cinemas 9 City Centre where Jamie Rafn will be in attendance for a post screening Q&A. The encore screening is on Thu, Oct 3rd, 2:00 PM @ Landmark as well.

NEAR MISS revolves around Jim, a kind albeit passive person, married the first and only woman he ever dated. When she leaves him eighteen years later, and enters into a new world of relationships and sexuality, Jim’s friends relentlessly hound him to re-enter the dating world. Jim reluctantly gets back into the dating game… only to fall in love with the second woman he’s ever dated, who is planning on leaving the country in a few months time.

Christian Zyp interviews Peter Hays (director) about the documentary FLASHBACK about the legendary club from the 80's nightlife scene in Edmonton. Catch a screening of FLASHBACK at the Metro Cinema on Sept 16th or at the Royal Alberta Museum on Oct 17th.

FLASHBACK is the story of a defiant disco dance culture of sweat and sex and drugs and fashion in Edmonton. It became a sensation on the international club circuit despite police raids, threats of violence and the scourge of AIDS. Even though the club is no more, it comes alive again in the memories of the people who were there and the legends they left behind.

Christian Zyp Interviews Dan Smith (Executive Director) about the Metro Cinema about their 2024 Season Launch. We discuss screenings of THE TRUMAN SHOW, FLASHBACK,WE ARE FUGAZI, FROM WASHINGTON D.C and more.

Christian Zyp interviews Michael Mabbott (dir/prod) about the documentary "ANY OTHER WAY: The Jackie Shane Story". Mabbott co-directed & Co-produced the film with Lucah Rosenberg-Lee. It's screening as part of the Edmonton International Film Festival on Thu, Oct 3rd, 6:30 PM @ Telus World of Science & Fri, Oct 4th, 2:00 PM @ Landmark Cinemas 9 City Centre.

ANY OTHER WAY: THE JACKIE SHANE STORY... A lost R&B star who eclipsed Etta James and Little Richard, trans soul singer Jackie Shane blazed an extraordinary trail with an unbreakable commitment to her truth. Forty years after vanishing from public view, this 20th century icon finally gets her second act.

Christian Zyp interviews Neil Grahn (prod/dir) about the documentary series HORSE WARRIORS. It airs on APTN in Canada starting Sept 2nd.

HORSE WARRIORS is a 13 episode docuseries from Neil Grahn and Dominique Keller that follows three dedicated teams as they train, compete and strive for victory in the North American Indian Relay Championships. This thrilling series captures the unique challenges each team faces, from balancing work and family responsibilities to overcoming injuries and personal strife. Featuring both male and female athletes, the show highlights the significant roles women play in this demanding sport. Find out more at www.aptn.ca/media-centre/shows/horse-warriors/

Christian Zyp interviews Sean "MASSIVE DAMAGE" Dunster about the doc he's featured in, THE DEATH TOUR. See the film at the Metro Cinema Tuesday August 6th @ 6:45 pm. Sean and several other people involved with the film will be in attendance for a post screening Q&A. It will also screen on Wednesday August 7th @ 9:30 pm at Metro without guests.

THE DEATH TOUR is a deeply personal documentary that travels through Canada’s frozen North and into the wrestlers’ minds as they battle the elements, each other, and the impacts of our colonial past. The film is Executive Produced by wrestling legend Chris Jericho and also features Kenny Omega. 

Christian Zyp interviews Brandon Rhiness (dir/writer) and Elizabeth Chamberlain (actor) about GROTESQUE 2. It will have its Edmonton Premiere at the Metro Cinema on Wednesday July 17th at 7pm.

GROTESQUE 2 is the outrageous sequel to the hit slasher comedy of the same name. The story follows lovable psychopath Mildred Moyer (Elizabeth Chamberlain) on her new murderous adventure as she unleashes vengeance upon a corrupt religious organization. GROTESQUE 2 was filmed in Edmonton and surrounding areas.

Christian Zyp interviews documentary filmmaker Anna Kuelken. She was one of the recipients of the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Emerging Artist Award for her work on films such as FATHER LIKE SON. Anna approaches filmmaking through an ethnographic lens, investing time cultivating relationships with her participants. In 2025 she will be releasing a new project, WOMEN WHO DIG, about farming, feminism and the fight to feed the world.

Christian Zyp interviews Lacey Paige about the films she programmed in the series EXTREMITIES OF EVIL at the Metro Cinema. The series is a look at AWFUL human appendages committing heinous, “hands-on” homicide, through the horror trope of losing a limb and inheriting a replacement one that has been possessed by the spirit of a murderous psychopath.

BODY PARTS (DIrected by Eric Red) screens Thurs June 6th at 6:45 pm. All proceeds for the screening will be donated to the Glenrose Hospital Foundation. The second film is THE HAND (1981) from director Oliver Stone an starring Michael Caine. It screens Fri June 14th at 9:30 pm.

Christian Zyp interviews Lisa Jackson (dir/prod/writer) about the documentary WILFRED BUCK. It screens at the Metro CInema on June 3rd at 7:00 pm and June 5th 9:30 pm. It's screening as part of Indigenous History Month.

WILFRED BUCK is about a man from the “fresh-out-of-the-bush, partly civilized, colonized, displaced people,” and he’s here to take us to the stars. Lisa Jackson’s portrait of Cree Elder Wilfred Buck moves between earth and sky, past and present, bringing to life ancient teachings of Indigenous astronomy and cosmology to tell a story that spans generations. Adapted from Buck’s rollicking memoir "I Have Lived Four Lives", the film weaves together stories from his life, including his harrowing young years of displacement and addiction. Seamlessly fusing present-day scenes with cinematic re-enactments and archival footage, this intimate yet expansive documentary takes us on an inspiring journey to the space beyond, and to the spaces between us all.

Christian Zyp interviews Nathan Tape (dir/writer) & Tim Cairo (writer/prod) about their film OFF RAMP. It's making its Edmonton Premiere at the Metro Cinema June 2, 2024 @ 6:45 pm.

In OFF RAMP, a couple of lovable, degenerate Juggalos, Trey and Silas, journey through America's hellish underbelly to The Gathering of the Juggalos, the one place on earth they feel accepted. On the way, they are detoured by a psychotic powerful Sheriff, a violent blood ritual, a trailer park princess, a backwoods gang, and a country cop tripping on LSD. And then things start to get really crazy. Originally aired on CJSR. Find out more at MetroCinema.org

Lucas Anders interviews Darrin Hagen (director) about the documentary PRIDE V. PREJUDICE: The Delwin Vriend Story. It is a Special Preview Screening as part of Rainbow Visions FIlm Festival on Sun May 19th at 4 pm at the Metro CInema. Darrin Hagen and others will be there for a Q&A.

"Pride vs. Prejudice: The Delwin Vriend Story" delves into the riveting narrative of the Vriend v. Alberta case, where Delwin Vriend, an unlikely hero, courageously battles against discrimination from a government determined to deny his human rights. Uncover the twists and turns that unfold as Vriend's pursuit of justice challenges societal biases, culminating in a ground-breaking Canadian Supreme Court ruling in 1998 that confronts prejudice and sets a transformative precedent for LGBTQ+ rights that is cited around the world.

Christian Zyp interviews Pamela Hogan (dir) about the documentary film THE DAY ICELAND STOOD STILL that she made in collaboration with Icelandic producer Hrafnhildur Gunnarsdóttir. It screens as part of Northwest Fest on Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 2:00 PM at the Metro Cinema.

THE DAY ICELAND STOOD STILL is the true story of one day that sparked a revolution. With a score by Icelandic rock singer Margrét Rán (GusGus, Vök) and evocative animated sequences by artist Joel Orloff, The Day Iceland Stood Still unfolds through the vivid memories of the women who created and lived this moment. When 90% of the women of Iceland walked off the job and out of their homes one fall morning in 1975, refusing to work, cook, or take care of the children, they brought their country to a standstill and catapulted Iceland to the "best place in the world to be a woman."

Christian Zyp interviews Sav Rogers (dir) about the documentary CHASING CHASING AMY. See it as part of RAINBOW VISIONS FILM FESTIVAL on Saturday, May 18, 2034, @ 4:30 PM at the Metro CInema.

Sav Rodgers' debut feature film CHASING CHASING AMY explores the unexamined legacy of Kevin Smith's cult classic, "Chasing Amy". On a quest to understand how this divisive LGBTQ+ '90s rom-com saved his life as a queer kid, the film becomes both a tribute to the movie and an exploration of its mixed reviews from the LGBTQ+ community.

Lucas Anders interviews Ben Judkins about his documentary THE CIGARETTE SURFBOARD. The World Premiere of this film screens as part of Northwest Fest on Sat, May 11, 2024 @ 7:00 PM at the Metro Cinema. Ben Judkins and Taylor Lane in attendance... with surf boards!

THE CIGARETTE SURFBOARD follows a young designer who realizes that a surfboard –which he crafted from thousands of littered cigarette butts picked up off California beaches– could captivate the eyes of millions across the globe, he decides to use it as the impetus to do something more. The Cigarette Surfboards become a platform to spark ocean stewardship and the symbol of a campaign to hold Big Tobacco accountable for their toxic waste.

Christian Zyp interviews Benjamin Howard (dir/writer/prod) about his film RILEY. It is the RAINBOW VISIONS Centrepiece screening on Saturday, May 18, 2024 7:00 PM, presented by Fruit Loop. This film and all screenings will take place at the Metro Cinema. Filmmaker Benjamin Howard and Lead Actor Jake Holley will be in attendance.

In RILEY, Dakota is an athlete that lives within carefully designed boundaries, a calculated blueprint upon which he's formed the basis of his identity. But when the reality of that identity is thrown into disarray, Dakota is forced to confront the consequences of denying himself or coming to terms with who he really is.

Christian Zyp Interviews Eric Vaughn (director), Jon Liton (founder of LET'S BE BETTER HUMANS), Bruce Mau & Bisi Williams (Co-founders of MASSIVE CHANGE NETWORK) about the documentary I HAVE A NAME. You can catch a screening of the film as part of Northwest Fest on Sat May 11th at 4 pm at the Metro Cinema.

By compassionately observing the culture's true social conditions, Jon Liton finds a deep pathway to empathy through connection with gestures as simple as asking and using people's names. Without an ounce of intent and purely through organic outflow, Jon became an activist and advocate, finding donors, partners and supporters through the most improbable sets of circumstances under the simple banner of let's BE BETTER HUMANS.

Christian Zyp interviews Gerry Potter (dir/prod) about his documentary IN SEARCH OF PROFESSOR PRECARIOUS. Catch a free screening May 3, 2024 @ 7 pm at CO*LAB, 9641 102A Ave. (1 block east of the Art Gallery of Alberta).

IN SEARCH OF PROFESSOR PRECARIOUS is a documentary in which the director, a long-time precarious contract instructor, travels Canada to lift the curtain on higher education’s dirty little secret. The search takes viewers into the lives of precarious contract faculty and tells their compelling stories. We also hear from permanent faculty, students, administrators, activists and experts.

Christian Zyp interviews Nisreen Barker about her Alberta filmed documentary ARAB WOMEN SAY WHAT?! It was shot in Alberta with unadulterated truth and complexity. You can stream it for free at NFB.ca

ARAB WOMEN SAY WHAT?! paints an unparalleled portrait of Arab women living in Canada. The film offers a counter-mainstream narrative that embraces the unique experiences and perspectives of eight Arab women sharing their insights, cuisine and laughter. Amid the rhythm of poetry and music, they tackle issues of feminism, politics, exile and the yearning for a sense of belonging.

Christian Zyp interviews Canadian cinematic legend Vincenzo Natali about the two films he has featured at the Calgary Underground FIlm Festival (CUFF), CUBE (1997) and NOTHING (2003). They will be screened over April 20-21 at the Globe Cinema.

Vincenzo Natali reminisces about these spiritual sequels, CUBE and NOTHING. In CUBE, without remembering how they got there, several strangers awaken in a prison of cubic cells, some of them booby-trapped. There's one-time cop, master of escapes, autistic savant Kazan (Andrew Miller) and architect Worth (David Hewlett), who might have more information on the maze than he lets on. Where as, in NOTHING, corporate worker (David Hewlett) and a travel agent (Andrew Miller) find themselves in an environment surrounded by blankness.

Christian Zyp interviews Michael Peterson (dir) about the Alberta filmed series DEPARTMENT OF PARANORMAL AFFAIRS. It screens as part of the Calgary Underground FIlm Festival (CUFF) Sat April 27th at 4:30 pm at the Globe Cinema.

You know all of the monsters from scary stories? They’re totally real, but they’re just trying to get by like the rest of us. In the DEPARTMENT OF PARANORMAL AFFAIRS, a special branch of the government, and its employees Jenny Hicks (Nancy Ngo) and Scott Power (David Feehan), led by Director Greg LeGrow (Donovan Workun), are the civil servants dedicated to dealing with the ordinary problems of extraordinary beings. Scott does things by the book, Jenny’s never read a book, and Greg couldn’t care less what either of them does – but they’ll all have to work together if they’re going to keep the paranormal world safe.

Lucas Anders interview Maxwell Nalevansky (dir) about his film RATS! screening as part of the Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF) on Sat April 20th at the Globe CInema.

In RATS! the summer just got a lot shorter for Raphael Tinski. It's 2007 and the peak of emo-culture is in full swing. Raphael just got arrested by a psychotic cop. Raphael just fell in love with a girl at community service. Raphael might get blown up by nukes. He’s a good kid, so you can't blame Raphael for the events that unfold after his arrest. None of it is Raphael's fault, but it is his problem.

Christian Zyp interviews Tim Rutherford, Cody Kennedy, Josh Lenner and Kevin Martin about their film THE LAST VIDEO STORE. It's making its southern Alberta premiere at the Calgary Underground Film Festival Sat April 20th at 9:45 pm at the Globe Cinema. It also screens Sun April 28 at 3:45 pm.

In this love letter to the era of the video store, THE LAST VIDEO STORE follows Nyla who accidentally uncovers a "cursed" VHS tape her father wanted her to return upon his death. This transports her into a world of magnetic tape madness with store owner Kevin (Kevin Martin). From the minds of Edmonton-born filmmakers Cody Kennedy and Tim Rutherford (aka House of Heathens).

Lindsey Campbell and Mark Davies discuss the film BLACKBERRY as part of their series THANKS TELEFILM. This is where they examine federally funded films. Will they say "Thanks Telefilm!" OR "Thanks Telefilm?"

In BLACKBERRY, Matt Johnson (Nirvana the Band the Show) explores the incredible growth and tragic collapse of the world's first smartphone and how it smashed huge enterprises before surrendering to Silicon Valley's fiercely competitive companies. It's not a conventional tale of modern business failure by fraud and greed. The rise and fall of BlackBerry reveals the dangerous speed at which innovators race along the information superhighway. It stars Glen Howerton, Jay Baruchel and Michael Ironside.

Lucas Anders interviews Caden Douglas (dir/writer) about his film MOTHER FATHER SISTER BROTHER FRANK. It makes its Canadian Premiere at the Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF) on Fri April 26th @ 7pm at the Globe CInema. 

In MOTHER FATHER SISTER BROTHER FRANK, the Jennings family couldn’t be more painfully suburban, but when asshole Uncle Frank crashes their weekly Sunday dinner with a nasty surprise, murder turns up on the menu.  On the surface, they seem like a happy family, but trouble is brewing. When Uncle Frank shows up, and the adult children learn that he’s been blackmailing their parents, the Jennings' thoughts turn to murder. Once the haze of bloodlust, wine and pie clears, the Jennings’ realize they have no clue how to be murderers, how to get rid of a body, or how the hell to get out of this bloody mess! Can they overcome secrets and dysfunction to learn that the family that slays together stays together?

Christian Zyp interviews Nathan Tape (dir/writer) & Tim Cairo (writer/prod) about their film OFF RAMP. It's making its Canadian Premiere at the Calgary Underground Film Festival April 22, 2024 @ 9:30 pm at the Globe Cinema.

In OFF RAMP, a couple of lovable, degenerate Juggalos, Trey and Silas, journey through America's hellish underbelly to The Gathering of the Juggalos, the one place on earth they feel accepted. On the way, they are detoured by a psychotic powerful Sheriff, a violent blood ritual, a trailer park princess, a backwoods gang, and a country cop tripping on LSD. And then things start to get really crazy. Originally aired on CJSR. FInd out more at CalgaryUndergroundFilm.org

Christian Zyp spoke with Brenda Lieberman (Festival Director and Co-Programmer) about the 21st Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF). Catch it April 18-28, 2024 at the Globe Cinema.

Brenda discusses the feature/documentary/short films, guests (John Waters & Vincenzo Natali), Albertan filmmakers and events surrounding the festival. Find out more at www.calgaryundergroundfilm.org

Christian Zyp interviews Sonya WIlliam (Director of the Network of Independent Canadian Exhibitors) about the current state of operations for theatre owners and not-for-profit art house cinemas in Canada. 

The monopoly of Cineplex Entertainment in Canada combined with restrictions of "zoning" and "clean runs" are making it increasingly difficult to operate for small theatre in cities and towns across the country. Find out more about N.I.C.E. at www.nicecinema.ca

Christian Zyp interviews Omar Mouallem (dir/prod) about his new documentary MAKING KAYFABE. It is screening on CBC Gem currently for free.

MAKING KAYFABE is a documentary that revolves around Omar Mouallem venturing into the squared circle. Facing a midlife crisis, Oamr decided to tap into his childhood dream of wrestling to be his next project. Entering the world of Love Pro Wrestling leaves an impression on him that goes beyond the ring.

Find the film at: https://gem.cbc.ca/absolutely-canadian/s24?autoplay=1

Christian Zyp interviews Spencer RIchard (writer/dir) about his new short film DANCE WITH THE DEVIL. It screens Fri March 22nd at the Capitol Theatre in Ft. Edmonton Park. 

DANCE WITH THE DEVIL is a spy thriller filmed in and around Edmonton.  

Lucas Anders interviews Justin Kueber (dir) about his documentary  "LABELED: Missing, Murdered and Forgotten". It screened as part of FAVA Fest. 

"LABELED: Missing, Murdered and Forgotten" is a harrowing, intimate journey into the lives of three Indigenous women who were abused, exploited, and harmed during their time in Edmonton’s sex industry.

Lucas Anders interviews Lindsey McIntyre (writer/dir) about the short film NIGIQTUQ ᓂᒋᖅᑐᖅ. It screened as part of FAVA Fest. 

Having left Nunavut with her mother Kumaa’naaq (koo-MAT-na) in 1938, young Marguerite must negotiate the unspoken pressures of being Inuk in her new life in the South. When an extraordinary letter arrives from home, Marguerite discovers what’s really expected of her. NIGIQTUQ ᓂᒋᖅᑐᖅ is based on a true story told to Lindsay by her grandmother. It connects to a larger story that is touched upon in several of Lindsay’s other films, including her upcoming feature, "The Words We Can’t Speak", currently in advanced development.

Mark Davies interviewed Ryan Leedu (dir/writer/prod) about his short film NO BEDROOM. In the film, a young woman selectively arranges viewings for her one-bedroom house, which she may not be genuine about actually renting.

It screened as part of FAVA Fest 2024 and on Super Channel's Canadian Film Fest.

Christian Zyp interviews Natalie Meyer (dir/prod) about her doc THE BOOK OF S.H.E. It screens Thurs Feb 29th at the Telus World of Science. You can find tickets at: Eventbrite.com

"The Book of S.H.E." (acronym for Success.Heal.Emerge) is a documentary film that serves as an artistic collection of Natalie Meyer's creative body paint and set designs with a focus on 10 local female entrepreneurs and community builders who identify as BIPOC in Edmonton. This film is an emotional journey of storytelling, documented through the process of the making of the book and amplified to share with others, especially young women of color, that although you may see a beautiful, perfect, strong woman on your screen, each one of these women have their own unique stories of struggle and healing that lies beneath the surface.

Christian Zyp interviews Kevin Martin (The Lobby DVD Shop -  10815 82 Ave NW, Edm, AB) about some new releases at the store: 
OUTLAW JOHNNY BLACK - Cowboy Johnny Black (Michael Jai White) vows to gun down the man responsible for the death of his father. 
SUITABLE FLESH - Psychiatrist Elizabeth Derby (Heather Graham) becomes obsessed with helping a young patient who is suffering from extreme personality disorder. However, it soon leads her into occult danger.
Clive Barker's UNDERWORLD - A crime boss (Steven Berkoff) pits a private eye (Larry Lamb) against underground mutants who crave more of a mad doctor's (Denholm Elliott) drug.

Christian Zyp interviews Michelle Thrush (Exec Prod) about the film BOIL ALERT. The documentary screens at Metro CInema Wed Feb 7, 2024 @ 6:30 pm. It's a FREE screening presented by Northwest Fest and the University of Alberta for International Week.

Michelle is a Nehiyaw performing artist (actress, producer, activist and more). BOIL ALERT follows activist/musician Layla Staats as she embarks on a dual journey to explore the Indigenous relationship to water and the struggles she has grappled with her whole life as a Mohawk Woman.

Lindsey Campbell, Mark Davies and Christian Zyp discuss the four major awards nominations for the 2024 Oscars... and more.

Christian Zyp interviews Jason Pichonsky (Film Historian) about the film THE BLOODY BROOD directed by Canadian Julian Roffman. You can find the film through Kino Lorber home video.

Two years before directing the 3-D cult favorite THE MASK (1961), Julian Roffman made his feature directorial debut with this early canuxploitation film, THE BLOODY BROOD (1959). When his brother turns up dead after eating a hamburger laced with ground glass, Cliff (Jack Betts) sets out to investigate the murder, venturing into the underground world of beatnik culture and its sinister underbelly of drugs and vice. Peter Falk makes his feature debut as Nico, sinister mentor and drug-dealer to the tuned-in kids of the beat generation. This 60th anniversary release has been newly mastered from archival 35mm elements, and showcases the moody cinematography of D.P. Eugen Schüfftan, who would two years later win an Academy Award® for his cinematography of THE HUSTLER.

Christian Zyp interviews Daniel Demchuk about the series called BARBARIAN RITES that he curated for Metro Cinema. It's an exploration of the origins and evolution of Sword and Sorcery films, through its dark beginnings at the drive in theatre to its box office glories and its reign as king over the b movie circuit.

See CONAN THE BARBARIAN (1982) Fri, Jan. 12 @ 9:15 PM, CLASH OF THE TITANS (1981) Sat., Jan. 27 @ 3:30 PM and THE BARBARIANS Sun., Jan. 28 @ 7:00 PM at Metro Cinema.

We take a look back at just few of the interviews and pieces over the last 12 months: HOW TO RUIN THE HOLIDAY (Arlen Konopaki & Kevin Gillese), THE AMITYVILLE CURSE (film historian Jason Pichonsky), SPIN THE WHEEL (Preston Ewasiuk, David Heacock & Neil Chase), RELAX, I'M FROM THE FUTURE (Luke Higginson), BLACK BARBIE (Lagueria Davis), Thanks Telefilm featuring I LOVE MOVIES, THE LAST VIDEO STORE (Cody Kennedy, Tim Rutherford, Josh Lenner & Kevin Martin)

Christian Zyp, Mark Davies & Lucas Anders take a look at another terrible X-Mas movie. This year, it's A KARATE CHRISTMAS MIRACLE from director Julie Kimmel. It's written by Ken Del Vecchio, Julie Kimmel & David Landau.

A KARATE CHRISTMAS MIRACLE focuses on 10-year-old Jesse Genesis as he creates a "12 Days of Christmas List" of tasks to honour his missing father. He believes that if he completes them all, including becoming a self-taught karate black belt, his father will return on Christmas Day. Throw in an eccentric psychic-turned-law professor and you have a pseudo-Hallmark, problematic mess.

Lindsey Campbell interviews Sav Rogers (director) about the doc CHASING CHASING AMY. It screens Thursday November 23rd at 7 pm as part of CUFF.Docs at the Globe Cinema.

CHASING CHASING AMY is a trans coming of age love story documentary, set against the backdrop of an indie film that solidified some careers and damaged others. Featuring interviews with the cast and crew of CHASING AMY (Kevin Smith and Joey Lauren Adams), alongside thought leaders from the LGBTQ+ community, several revolutionary filmmakers, and friends of the filmmakers.

Originally aired on Jan 15, 2015. Here is an interview about the restored re-release of the original Canadian horror film, 1961's THE MASK. Jason Pichonsky does the commentary track on the release and gives us some historical context about the film.
In THE MASK (1961), a young archaeologist believes he is cursed by a mask that causes him to have weird nightmares and possibly to murder. Before committing suicide, he mails the mask to his psychiatrist, Dr. Barnes, who is soon plunged into the nightmare world of the mask.

Christian Zyp interviews Sarah Appleton and Jasper Sharp (co-directors) about their documentary THE J-HORROR VIRUS. It screens as part of CUFF.Docs Sat Nov 25th @ 9:30 pm at the Globe Cinema in Calgary.

THE J-HORROR VIRUS charts the origins, evolution and diffusion across the world of a distinctive brand of made-in-Japan supernatural chillers featuring vengeful ghosts manifesting themselves through contemporary technology against a backdrop of urban alienation and social decay. From its origins in Teruyoshi Ishii’s fake documentary PSYCHIC VISION: JAGANREI (1988) and Norio Tsuruta’s seminal SCARY TRUE STORIES (1991/92) straight-to-video series, through such key titles as Hideo Nakata’s RING (1998), Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s PULSE (2001) and Takashi Shimizu’s JU-ON: THE GRUDGE (2002), critics and the filmmakers reflect on how the bleak dystopic visions and unsettling atmospheres that made these works so unique infiltrated their way across the world.

Christian Zyp interviews Layla Staat about the documentary BOIL ALERT. It screens Sat Nov 25th at 4:30 pm as part of CUFF.Docs at the Globe Cinema in Calgary. Layla Staats and Michelle Thrush will be in attendance for a Q&A following the screening.

BOIL ALERT follows activist Layla Staats as she embarks on a dual journey to explore the Indigenous relationship to water as well as her own identity struggles she has grappled with her entire life as a Mohawk Woman. Layla explores her past through the lens of uncovering why there is a lack of access to drinking water for many First Nations. There are currently 32 long-term boil-water advisories in 28 communities across Canada; drinkable water isn’t a reality for all living in this country.

Christian Zyp interviews David Gregory (director) about his doc ENTER THE CLONES OF BRUCE. It screens as part of CUFF.Docs Fri Nov 24th @ 9:15 pm at the Globe Cinema in Calgary. 

A look at the history, controversy, and legacy behind one of the most bizarre and successful genres in movie history: the Bruce Lee exploitation craze. When Bruce Lee died in 1974 at the peak of his superstardom, he had completed only four feature films. But within hours of his funeral, Hong Kong movie studios began to produce hundreds of unauthorized biopics, sequels, prequels, spin-offs, and rip-offs starring a competing series of Lee lookalikes. Over the next decade, fueled by both deception and demand, ‘Bruceploitation’ would become a staple of global cinema.

Mark Davies spoke with Shelly Thompson (director) about her film DAWN, HER DAD AND THE TRACTOR. It screens as part of the Broad View International FIlm Festival Saturday November 11th @ 4pm at Metro Cinema.

Set on a Nova Scotia dairy farm, John Andrew has just lost his wife Miranda to cancer. When a young woman with a startling resemblance to Miranda appears on his porch, an odyssey towards understanding begins. John Andrew’s estranged son Donald is now Dawn, and she’s come home to mourn her mother and keep her promise to repair her relationship with her Dad. Restoring the tractor her mother learned to drive on becomes a focus for the mechanically minded Dawn. John Andrew begins to realize that if he’s to reclaim this relationship, he has to come out with Dawn, and what better setting than the community tractor trials — an event Miranda created as a tireless village volunteer — where he proudly cheers for his daughter Dawn, as she enters the arena at the wheel of the lovingly restored tractor.

Lucas Anders interviews Virginia Abramovich (director) about her film BETWEEN WAVES. It screens as pat of the Broad View International Film Festival. It screens Friday November 10th at 9:15pm at Metro Cinema.

In BETWEEN WAVES, a woman pursues her missing lover, a quantum physicist, by crossing into a parallel dimension after his presumed death. Following a map and notebook left behind, she embarks on a journey to the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores. Here she begins to untangle the truth of what really happened the night he disappeared.

Christian Zyp interviews Jen Markowitz (director) about their doc SUMMER QAMP. It screens Sat Nov 4th @ 4pm at the Metro Cinema. It's presented by Rainbow Visions FIlm Festival and NorthWest Fest. 

SUMMER QAMP focuses on the staff and attendees of Camp fYrefly, a haven for LGBTQ2S+ teens, far away from the fierce political battle currently being waged against queer expression and gender identity – particularly in this Province. SUMMER QAMP invites ALL audiences into the innocence and joy of a summer away with friends, while never losing sight of the bravery of these young protagonists whose very existence is challenged in their normal lives.

Lucas Anders interviews Kevin Gillese (writer) and Arlen Konopaki (director) about their feature film HOW TO RUIN THE HOLIDAYS. It screens at Metro CInema on Nov 6, 2023 @ 7:00 pm.

This is the Edmonton premiere of the film for Arlen and Kevin who had the roots of their careers planted here. HOW TO RUIN THE HOLIDAYS focuses on a struggling comedian reluctantly returns home for the holidays, not only must she deal with her eccentric family, but she ultimately faces a life-changing decision about her special-needs brother. The film features performances by Ronny Chieng, Colin Mochrie, Amber Nash & Aisha Tyler.

Christian Zyp interviews James Carson (director/producer) about his film CABIN MUSIC. NorthWest Fest presents the screening on Saturday, November 4 at 7pm at Metro Cinema. JAMES CARSON IN ATTENDANCE FOR POST-SCREENING Q&A!

After walking away from the conservatory, renowned pianist (and Edmonton native) James Carson backpacks overland from Spain to Japan. At the center of the story is the unusual off-grid cabin in the Alberta wilderness that James designs and builds by hand upon his return. It is here, away from everything, that a new form of music emerges.

A documentary told only in the way a true artist could make one, CABIN MUSIC is a 74-minute piece of living art on the screen, as filmmaker, artist, and subject James Carson, combine to make a film quite unlike any you've seen before.

On the eve of his special live performance at the Yardbird Suite on November 5th, NorthwestFest is thrilled to welcome James Carson 'home', for the Alberta premiere of his mesmerizing documentary film debut.

Lucas Anders interviews about their film DEPARTING SENIORS. It makes its Canadian Premiere as part of North West Fear Fest on Thurs Oct 18th @ 9:15 at Metro Cinema. 

In DEPARTING SENIORS, a masked killer stalks the halls of a high school. A student named Javier finds himself (due to a nasty fall) with an unexpected new ability: the power to see through the eyes of anyone he touches. But with great power comes great responsibility, so Javier and his best friend/sidekick Bianca decide to try and catch the killer themselves.

Christian Zyp interviews Jeff Hayes (author of "Sleepaway Camp: Making the Movie and Reigniting the Campfire") about the 40th anniversary screening of SLEEPAWAY CAMP as part of Northwest Fear Fest. See it Friday, October 20, 2023 at 11:00 PM at the Metro Cinema.

SLEEPAWAY CAMP (1983) cult slasher horror movie from the mind of Robert Hiltzik, who served as writer, director, and executive producer. At first glance the film is about teen campers getting killed at a summer camp but the story delves into mystery, humor and psychological genres.

Christian Zyp interviews Will Gilby (writer/director) about his feature film JERICHO RIDGE. It screens Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at 9:15 PM at Metro Cinema as part of Northwest Fear Fest.

From first time feature filmmaker Will Gilbey comes a non-stop, white-knuckle siege thriller in the vein of classics like "Assault on Precinct 13" and "VFW"! The amazing Nikki Amuka-Bird channels her inner Sarah Connor, as her small town sheriff station is attacked by unknown assailants. Only she holds the key to preventing a wholesale slaughter!

Christian Zyp interviews Stuart Sparke (dir) & Lyndsey Craine (actor) about their film HOW TO KILL MONSTERS. See the film Friday, October 20, 2023 at Metro Cinema as part of North West Fear Fest.

Jamie Lancaster (Lyndsey Craine) is the sole survivor of a blood-drenched massacre at a remote cabin in the woods. Claiming that her friends were torn apart and eaten by a horrific monster, she is arrested by the local cops and locked up for a crime she didn't commit. Stewart Sparke's Lovecraft-inspired, throwback monster movie extravaganza has to be experienced to be believed!

Christian Zyp has a virtual roundtable with the creative powers behind THE LAST VIDEO STORE. Cody Kennedy & Tim Rutherford (co-directors) as well as the stars Josh Lenner (as Viper Jackson) and Kevin Martin (as Kevin). It screens Sunday, October 22, 2023 7:00 PM at Metro Cinema as past of North West Fear Fest 2023.

With a setting based on star Kevin Martin’s beloved cult video store The Lobby, THE LAST VIDEO STORE is a loving homage to the homegrown Canuxploitation, direct-to-video ‘90s sci-fi, and the rough-hewn potboilers that adorn its shelves. The feature debut of directing duo Cody Kennedy and Tim Rutherford, who produced a bunch of outrageous shorts filmed at The Lobby under the moniker House of Heathens, THE LAST VIDEO STORE is genre cinema lovingly crafted by true aficionados.

Lucas Anders interviews Dan Covert about his documentary GEOFF McFETRIDGE: DRAWING A LIFE. It's screening as part of the Edmonton International FIlm Festival Sat, Sep 23rd, 6:30 PM @ Muttart Theatre at the Stanley Milner.

GEOFF McFETRIDGE: DRAWING A LIFE examines what defines a life. How do you decide what matters? Geoff McFetridge’s art is everywhere: from Apple watch faces, to solo shows around the world, to movie titles for Spike Jonze. But this film is more than a primer on Geoff’s prolific career. It’s about the choices we confront in trying to lead meaningful lives.

Lucas Anders interviews Jason William Lee (dir/writer/prod) about his film LOST LAKE CONFESSIONS. The film screens as part of the Edmonton International Film Festival Sun, Sept 24, 2023 @ 6:30 PM at the Muttart Theatre in the Stanley Milner Library. The filmmaker will be in attendance for a Q&A following the film.

LOST LAKE CONFESSIONS follows the character Jahan “JD” Davani as he returns to Vancouver only to find out the devastating news that his cancer has relapsed and his life now hangs in the balance. In an attempt to escape this harsh reality, if only for a fleeting time, JD takes his 3 best friends, Hilary, Ray and Connie on a camping trip to Lost Lake for one last nostalgic hoorah.

Lucas Anders interviews two winners of the 2023 Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards,animators Amanda Forbis & Wendy Tilby.They discuss receiving the 2023 Distinguished Artist Award, the Oscar nomination of their animated short film THE FLYING SAILOR and more.

FInd out more about THE FLYING SAILOR at https://www.nfb.ca/film/flying-sailor-the/

Christian Zyp interviews Janet Pearlman (director/writer/animator) of the short film THE GIRL WITH THE RED BERET. It screenas as part of EIFF Tue, Sep 26th, 12:10 PM @ Muttart Theatre at the Stanley Milner Library.

THE GIRL WITH THE RED BERET encounters an array of colourful, extravagant characters during a wild ride on the Montreal metro in  this animated short. FInd out more at https://www.nfb.ca/film/the-girl-with-the-red-beret/

Christian Zyp interviews Sydney Moule (Executive Director) about the 37th annual OSCAR Qualifying Edmonton International FIlm Festival (EIFF). It takes place from Sept 21st - Oct 1st, 2023. Sydney discusses the screening locations (Metro Cinema, Muttart Theatre, Telus World of Science, Ledcor Theatre) and some of the highlights of the festival.  

Find out more about the festival schedule: https://edmontonfilmfest.com/schedule

Christian Zyp interviews Kevin Martin about the 18th Anniversary of the Lobby DVD Shop on Whyte Ave in Edmonton, Alberta. In an age of streaming, The Lobby continues to exist in spite of the evolution of how we consume media. We discuss the store, the evolution of media, DEDfest and the future release of THE LAST VIDEO STORE.

Christian Zyp interviews film historian/director Jason Pichonsky about the film THE AMITYVILLE CURSE from Canadian International Pictures. Jason did the commentary track on this release giving a tonne of insight into the film.

THE AMITYVILLE CURSE deviates from series formula, to surprising, amusing, and unsettling effect. Handsomely shot by Rodney Gibbons (My Bloody Valentine) and based on a novel by famed parapsychologist Hans Holzer – who also wrote the source material for Amityville II: The Possession – this inspired oddity is full of memorable horror flourishes and moments of jaw-dropping weirdness. With a lively ensemble that includes Kim Coates (Innocent Blood), Cassandra Gava (Conan the Barbarian), Helen Hughes (The Incubus), and Jan Rubes (Witness), The Amityville Curse is essential Canuxploitation viewing.

Lucas Anders interviews Berkley Brady (writer/director) about her film DARK NATURE. You can find it on most VOD platforms to rent. 

DARK NATURE tells the story of a therapy group that is forced to confront the monsters of their past when an isolated weekend retreat tests their emotional resilience and ability to survive

Lindsey Campbell & Mark Davies present another edition of THANKS TELEFILM where they examine films funded by Telefilm. This time it's writer/director/producer Chandler Levack's film I LOVE MOVIES.

In I LIKE MOVIES Lawrence Kweller is an irascible, self- and movie-obsessed teenager living in the wilds of early-2000s Burlington, Ontario. He’s the kind of guy who, when he buys a movie ticket, mentions the director’s name just to show that he’s there for the right reasons. He dreams of NYU, where he’ll be mentored by a grateful Todd Solondz. But for Lawrence, who delivers every statement with utter certainty, this isn’t a mere dream: it’s locked in — as long as he can make thousands of dollars working part-time at his local video store.

Christian Zyp interviews Denny Tedesco (dir) about his documentary IMMEDIATE FAMILY. It screens Friday May 5th @ 7:00 pm as part of NorthWest Fest at the Metro Cinema.

IMMEDIATE FAMILY is the true story of a group of close friends who became the studio band to the biggest stars of the 1970s and beyond, changing the course of musical history. The film chronicles the next wave of studio players to follow in the footsteps of 60s session icons, Denny Tedesco also directed the original THE WRECKING CREW (2008) documentary and the series HANGING WITH DR. Z streaming on YouTube.

Mark Davies interviews Sean Patrick Shaul (dir/writer/prod) about his new documentary COVER YOUR EARS. It screens Monday May 8th as part of NorthWest Fest at the Metro Cinema. Sean and Kayvon Saremi (producer) will in attendance after the screening for a Q&A.

COVER YOUR EARS... With such a powerful influence on all aspects of society, the messages and themes portrayed by musicians have long been considered dangerous to some. Sprawling from the early twentieth century to Tipper Gore’s ‘Parental Advisory’ crusade and beyond, this provocative film looks at how the censorship of music has shaped how we make and view art and who we are as consumers and free-thinkers

Christian Zyp interviews Lagueria Davis (director) about her documentary BLACK BARBIE. It screens as part of NorthWest Fest Sat May 6th @ 2:15 pm at Metro CInema.

BLACK BARBIE is a personal exploration that tells a richly archival, thought-provoking story that voices the insights and experiences of Beulah Mae Mitchell, who spent 45 years working at Mattel. Discussing how the absence of Black images in the "social mirror" left Black girls with little other than White subjects for self-reflection and self-projection, Beulah Mae Mitchell and other Black women in the film talk about their own complex, varied experiences of not seeing themselves represented, and how Black Barbie's transformative arrival affected them personally.

Lucas Anders interviews Sean Horlor & Steve J. Adams (co-writers/co-directors) about their documentary SATAN WANTS YOU. See it as part of NorthWest Fest on Saturday, May 6 @ 7:00 PM at the Metro Cinema.

SATAN WANTS YOU is the shocking story of how a young woman and her psychiatrist ignited the global Satanic Panic with their bestselling memoir. During the 1980s and ‘90s the world was gripped by the cultural hysteria known as the Satanic Panic. Ignited by Michelle Remembers, a lurid memoir by psychiatrist Larry Pazder and his patient Michelle Smith, rumours of “Satanic Ritual Abuse” spread through panic-stricken communities worldwide.

Christian Zyp interviews Justin Keuber (dir/writer/rpod) about his documentary film LABELED: The Missing, Murdered and Forgotten. It screens Sunday, May 7 @ 4:00pm at Metro Cinema as part of NorthWest Fest. The screening is part of the Alberta Perspectives Series.

LABELED: The Missing, Murdered and Forgotten is a harrowing, intimate journey into the lives of three Indigenous women who were abused, exploited, and harmed during their time in Edmonton’s sex industry.

Christian Zyp interviews Jake Thomas (dir/prod/D.O.P.) about his documentary film ADAPTATION. It screens as part of NorthWest Fest Saturday May 6th @ 4:30 pm at Metro Cinema.

ADAPTATION follows a group of wheelchair-bound athletes as they converge for the BC Summer Race Series, the World's 1st downhill mountain bike race series to include an adaptive bike (aMTB) category. However, this is not just a film about a bike race; it's a group of stories about the ability to overcome adversity - whether for the thrill of competition or a need to push through the pain of daily life to simply get lost in a moment.

Christian Zyp interviews Mike Mendez (director/producer)about the horror anthology SATANIC HISPANICS. It will screen at the Calgary Underground Film Festival Saturday April 22 @ 9:45 pm and Thursday April 27 @ 4 pm at the Globe Cinema. Mike Mendez will also be in attendance for the screening for a Q&A.

SATANIC HISPANICS is an anthology of 5 short films from some of the leading Latin filmmakers in the horror genre (Mike Mendez, Demian Rugna, Eduardo Sanchez, Gigi Saul Guerrero & Alejandro Brugues). The film spotlights Hispanic talent both in front and behind the camera. The film starts when police raid a house in El Paso. They find it full of dead Latinos, and only one survivor. He’s known as The Traveler, and when they take him to the station for questioning, he tells them those lands are full of magic and talks about the horrors he’s encountered in his long time on this earth, about portals to other worlds, mythical creatures, demons and the undead.

Lucas Anders interviews Sean Horlor & Steve J. Adams (co-writers/co-directors) about their documentary SATAN WANTS YOU. See it as part of the Calgary Underground Film Festival on Friday April 28th at 6:30 pm at the Globe Cinema.

SATAN WANTS YOU is the shocking story of how a young woman and her psychiatrist ignited the global Satanic Panic with their bestselling memoir. During the 1980s and ‘90s the world was gripped by the cultural hysteria known as the Satanic Panic. Ignited by Michelle Remembers, a lurid memoir by psychiatrist Larry Pazder and his patient Michelle Smith, rumours of “Satanic Ritual Abuse” spread through panic-stricken communities worldwide.

Christian Zyp interviews Luke Higginson (dir/writer/editor) about his new feature film RELAX, I'M FROM THE FUTURE. It screens as part of the Calgary Underground Film Festival Tuesday April 25th @ 6:30pm at the Globe Cinema.

RELAX, I’M FROM THE FUTURE follows Casper (Rhys Darby), a charming, but embarrassingly underprepared Time Traveller, now trapped in the past. When Casper befriends Holly (Gabrielle Graham), a jaded drifter, she helps him exploit his trivial knowledge of the future for a series of quick payouts, oblivious to the consequences they have set in motion. When Doris (Janine Theriault), a more competent Time Traveller, tracks them down, Casper and Holly are forced to figure out what they mean to each other and whether the future they’ve threatened is even worth saving.

Lucas Anders interviews Jesse T. Cook (director/executive producer)about his feature film CULT HERO. The film screens as part of the Underground Film Festival at the Globe Cinema Friday April 28th, Director Jesse Thomas Cook & Actress Liv Collins will be in attendance for Q&A after the screening.

In CULT HERO, manager-summoning control freak Kallie Jones teams up with washed-up cult buster Dale Domazar to rescue her husband from the clutches of a cannibalistic death cult masquerading as a new age wellness centre.

Christian Zyp interviews Winefred & Austin Bragg (writer/dir)about their film PINBALL: THE MAN WHO SAVED THE GAME. It screens as part of the Calgary Underground Film Festival at the Globe Cinema Thursday April 27th at6:30 pm.

Based on the true story of Roger Sharpe, a young midwesterner who overturned New York City's 35 year-old ban on pinball machines. An unsettled writer with a fantastic mustache, Roger Sharpe, finds solace and confidence in one thing he has mastered: pinball. When a police raid destroys the only machines he can find in 1970s New York City, he learns the game is illegal. Roger reluctantly joins forces with the Music and Amusement Association to overturn the ban while falling in love with Ellen, an artist and single mother.

Christian Zyp interviews KC Carthew (writer/director) about her new film POLARIS. It screens at the Calgary Underground Film Festival. It screens at the Globe Cinema on Thursday April 27th.

POLARIS is set in 2144 against the harsh backdrop of a frozen wasteland, Sumi, a human child raised by Mama Polar Bear, narrowly escapes capture from a brutal Morad hunting party and sets out across the vast winter landscape. When Sumi stumbles across Frozen Girl, an unlikely friendship is forged and together they race ahead of the vindictive hunters towards the only guiding light Sumi knows, the Polaris star.

Christian Zyp interviewed Brennan Tilley (Lead Programer) about the Calgary Underground Film Festival 2023. It's the 20th anniversary of CUFF and it takes place from April 20th - 30th . Find out even more about all screenings at the Globe Theatre as well as more events by going to CalgaryUndergroundFilm.org