Freebie!

So I got an email from NOW Toronto and I was thrilled to finally win something from their newsletter mailing list. I've been signing up for contests for months and I've only gotten cold callers instead of goodie packages. Anyway, I won tickets to see the premiere of Family Motel. Of course, I haven't heard of it, but quick googling says it's a Canadian production about a Somali family's battle with immigrant issues and homelessness. A friend went with me not knowing what to expect.



Well, I should say I loved the film. It's a little held off in terms of violent mishaps and situations, but I understand it was done light so as not to pull the focus away from the real issues. To me it's more of an inner struggle among the characters so the heavy emotions drawn out were enough. There was a post show Q&A with the actors and the production and it's interesting to note that the lead actors haven't even done any kind of film before. They also did the whole production without an actual script, so I applaud the cast for their improv talents, which should ring higher fees, but then again it's a film for a cause so forget that. Production wise, it was filmed in HD cams so you could actually see the smallest of comedones on the actors' faces. It's also nice that they actually used real people in their real jobs in the course of the mother's challenges. Overall, it's a well-crafted film. Although it's probably best suited shown on TV for more people to see, I hope the film gains more support for better exposure around the world. The film opens early May in Toronto so watch for it!

GTGL8RZ!