Award-winning actor Douglas Vermeeren is making waves in nearly every film genre on both sides of the Atlantic with roles in “Unnatural 2,” “Clean Right Hook,” and “Deadly Endings” this year.
Douglas takes on the role of an FBI agent in “Mafia Spies,” based on the book ‘Mafia Spies: The Inside Story of the CIA, Gangsters, JFK, and Castro,” now streaming on Paramount+.
To say that Douglas Vermeeren is one of the busiest actors filming roles in feature films in Europe and the USA is an understatement. To keep up with his roles in productions in 2024, let’s start with the Western “Unnatural 2,” Douglas plays Lucifer, directed by Whit Whitman and shot in Kentucky in May 2024 for Little Monsters Productions. He then flew to attend the Cannes Film Festival before booking a role as gangster Archie Baker in “Clean Right Hook,” shot in London, UK, in Late May /early June 2024, directed by Sam Purewal for Black Coppice Productions, Then back to the US for “Deadly Endings” shot in New Haven CT in June 2024. Douglas plays Bradley West with filmmaker Richard Harlost. Douglas also found time to shoot the role of Raynard in “Alien Horde,” his second film with Mahal Empire.
Forbes Celebrity magazine pays attention to Douglas’s successful acting career, as he is included on Forbes’ top ten list. The magazine states, “The Forbes top celebrity list is only complete with Douglas Vermeeren. Vermeeren is an actor and stuntman making waves in nearly every film genre.”
And if that’s not enough, Douglas takes on the role of an FBI agent in Paramount+’s six-episode documentary series “Mafia Spies,” now streaming. Based on the book “Mafia Spies: The Inside Story of the CIA, Gangsters, JFK, and Castro” by Thomas Maier, the docuseries dives into the plot to kill Fidel Castro during the Cold War. Spies, gangsters, mistresses, Sinatra, JFK, even James Bond! Unbelievable but true. “Mafia Spies” reveals the startling tale of the CIA’s, the mob’s, and Sinatra’s Rat Pack’s connections from Vegas to Miami to Havana, exploring America’s most amazing espionage operations ever.
On the film festival circuit, Douglas is proud of two independent feature films, “Jack Knife” and “Tenants,” which are winning awards worldwide. Both films are in discussions with distributors. Douglas won a Best Actor Award for his portrayal of Billy Lachance in “Jackknife” and a Best Supporting Actor Award for his portrayal of Leonard in “Tenants.” He is also nominated for best supporting actor at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival from September 8 to 15, 2024. https://filmmakers.festhome.com/f/2454/1
Other roles include starring alongside former WWE star Al Snow in “Homeless for the Holidays.” As Callum in “Bikers Vs. Werewolves” with Robert LaSardo and Michael Pare. As Denver Haywood in “The Boy From Below” with Dee Wallace and Leah Voysey. As Neal in “Skate to Hell” with Eric Roberts, Todd Bridges, Jenna Jameson and Robert Carradine. And Bradley in “Deadly Endings” with Felissa Rose.
Entrepreneur and Seasoned Film and Documentary Producer Natalie Boll is launching Tribela, a ground-breaking social media and e-commerce platform.
With the success of “Maker of Monsters: The Extraordinary Life of Beau Dick,”Natalie is currently filming two documentaries, “Code Shift” and “WasteWise.”
Entrepreneur and seasoned film and documentary producer Natalie Boll is inspired by her personal experiences and the pervasive issues within current social media platforms to create Tribela, an innovative online platform dedicated to the safety and well-being of its users. Natalie is an award-winning producer from Vancouver, BC, who has been a dynamic force in the entertainment industry for over two decades. Her extensive experience managing large teams and significant budgets has prepared her for the challenge.
Splitting her time between Germany and Canada, Natalie chose to prototype Tribela in Germany, working with the Heidelberg-based tech firm in partnership with Microsoft for Startups. She remarks, “Germany is at the forefront of technology and innovation, particularly in regulating technology with strong legislation and data privacy policies. Harnessing this advanced German technology to build a new platform at this scale could be very special.”
Natalie has led the development of Tribela. Her journey includes comprehensive research and development phases, where she engaged in educational programs to deepen her expertise. These encompass Harvard Business School’s online courses in Launching Tech Ventures and Leading with Finance studies through the Center for Humane Technology in San Francisco on the Foundations of Human Technology and a course on the Well-being of Teens at Yale University. She further honed her leadership and management skills at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School Advanced Management and Leadership Programme. Additionally, she was invited to join The Break Fellowship, which supports female entrepreneurs in the EU, providing mentoring and support that helped accelerate Tribela’s development during a company development period in San Sebastian, Spain. This fall, Natalie will return to Oxford University to participate in their Innovation Incubator and further develop the foundations of Tribela.
Tribela’s platform design, influenced by extensive research, aims to disrupt the industry with a focus on ethical and transparent AI and algorithm development. Natalie’s daughter, who will attend Western University, played a crucial role in the research and design tailored to the Gen Z market. Natalie explains, “What we’re creating is truly extraordinary. With my daughter’s insight and research, we are entering the market with a deep understanding of what this generation needs. Safety is a given with our design, but the features must be genuinely useful.”
Natalie’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond media; she has successfully owned and operated businesses in real estate and the restaurant industry. Her business acumen was recognized with Vancouver’s 40 under 40 award.
Natalie is the co-owner of Athene Films, a Vancouver-based production company. Their recent work includes “Maker of Monsters: The Extraordinary Life of Beau Dick,” which continues to air on CBC Gem. Production is underway on “Code Shift” ” exploring the creation of Tribela where Natalie leads a pivotal movement to redefine social media, weaving together her battles and behind-the-scenes insights into the industry’s urgent need for change” by documenting her journey to build Tribela in a male-dominated tech industry and the future of ethical technology through a female lens.
Natalie has also completed the pilot episode of WasteWise, which will be released on July 1. The first season will be filmed in Rome during the fall of 2024. This engaging and inspiring half-hour YouTube original series focuses on sustainable home organization. Hosted by Ottavia Belli, CEO of Sfusitalia and an Italian-based environmental educator and speaker, the series aims to inspire viewers to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle through manageable steps.
Principal Photography for the new Canadian Original series “My Pet Ate What?” is in production
For immediate release: Vancouver, June 25, 2024. Tyson Media is pleased to announce that principal photography is underway on “My Pet Ate What?” for Bell Media. The show is being filmed in the Greater Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island and the Okanagan. Filming started in late March and continues until late July, with anticipated pickup shoots in August and September 2024. Production has shot in over 30 clinics so far this filming season, and it is estimated that they will film in more than 50 clinics across British Columbia by the time production is wrapped. Post-production began in late April and is projected to run until the series is fully delivered in January 2025.
Introduction “MY PET ATE WHAT?” is a new documentary series for Bell Media that follows the work of Dr. Eugene Gorodetsky, an expert in veterinary care who uses a minimally invasive instrument that combines a camera, light, and grasping tools to reach down animals’ digestive tracts and recover wild, surprising, and dangerous items they’ve ingested. The show ‘My Pet Ate What?!’ was created by Ben Gordetsky, Eugene’s son, who came to British Columbia to work with his father during this period. Ben also serves as the project executive producer.
Photo credit: Robert Truijen
About Dr. Eugene Gorodetsky
One of the only veterinarians in the world known to focus exclusively on this field of endoscopy. Dr. G’s been practicing for more than 20 years. He provides a specialized procedure that prevents invasive, higher-risk surgery when successful. Dr. G is tirelessly motivated by extraordinary love for animals and dedication to their well-being. He’s extracted a 2-carat diamond ring, a hefty chunk of sofa cushion, four baby soothers and assorted brooches, among hundreds of other objects.
The show is unique because Dr. Gordetsky has no ‘home base’ and is a fully remote veterinarian, adding additional access challenges to the crew. Here’s a news article with more information on Dr. G’s practice: This B.C. travelling vet saves animals from swallowed objects.Impact and Awareness
“MY PET ATE WHAT?” presents a unique and heartfelt opportunity for pet owners, veterinary staff, and other participants to make a difference in the lives of animals. Those who are a part of the project will help raise awareness about the benefits of Dr. G’s approach to pets’ health and well-being, as the show aims to highlight the importance of prompt veterinary care, which can mean life or death for a beloved animal. The production also hopes to spread the word about measures to help owners prevent their pets from ingesting foreign objects.Production Team In partnership with Bell Media, “MY PET ATE WHAT?” is produced by Tyson Media Productions, the Vancouver-based production company behind the Canadian Original series Pets and Pickers. The third season of Pets and Pickers premieres on Sunday, July 14, at 8 p.m. ET on Animal Planet. Seasons 1 and 2 are available on Discovery and Crave.
The “MY PET ATE WHAT?” production crew has worked on Pets and Pickers and is very experienced with filming in a clinical veterinary setting. They are sensitive to client care needs and compassionate considerations and are also experts at taking an observational approach and remaining unobtrusive to veterinary practices and procedures.Executive Producer: Tyson Hepburn Executive Producer / Creator: Ben Gorodetsky Executive Producer / Production Executive: Kelly McClughan Series Producer: Nicole Tomlinson Supervising Producer: Jeff Wonnenberg Series Director: Andrew Vacheresse Director of Photography: Jonny Schmidtgall Senior Story Producer: Cody Shaw Senior Story Editor: Kathy Johnson Senior Editors: Jenypher Fisher and Brent J. Rubin Post-Production Supervisor: Jadene Babcock Business Affairs: Laura Wheeler Production Accountant: Richard Raghoo
SOMNARA STUDIOS DREADWORKS HAUNTED HOUSE COMES TO CLOVERDALE FAIRGROUNDS FALL 2024
For immediate release, Vancouver, BC, June 2024 Somnara Studios is thrilled to announce their bold foray into live immersive theatre with the debut of Dreadworks Haunted House at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds this September 27th – November 3rd, 2024. Dreadworks Haunted House is a groundbreaking live event meticulously crafted to merge cutting-edge storytelling with advanced production techniques, creating an unforgettable, spine-chilling immersive experience.
Alexander J. Baxter
Dreadworks Haunted House represents a collaborative venture between Alexander J. Baxter and Jonkman family, co-founders of Somnara Studios. Baxter and The Dreadworks team, hailing from the acclaimed Constellate Films, brings a wealth of experience in the horror genre. Renowned for their dynamic storytelling and innovative film productions, they have set new standards in indie film with genres spanning dark fantasy, horror, drama, documentary, and science fiction.”
Alexander is also a producer, writer, actor, and director in the film industry, with ten years of experience as CEO and Founder of Constellate Films, a Vancouver-based production company. His acting credits include the TV series The Man in The High Castle, DC Legends of Tomorrow and the feature film Jikirag.
Joining the Dreadworks team as a co-owner of the haunted house is Ken Honigman of the acclaimed Anmore Manor, which is closing this year. Honigman brings years of haunted house expertise, enhancing the team’s creative prowess. Alongside him, Austin Trapp, Media Director, brings a wealth of experience as a Producer at Constellate Films and the founding of Vancouver and Toronto Film & TV Tours. Trapp is also an actor, having appeared in Yellowjackets, The Man in The High Castle, So Help Me Todd, and Christmas on Candy Cane Lane, among others. Shelly Baxter, renowned for her work on notable shows such as Creepshow and Two Sentence Horror Stories, will lead makeup and SFX. The creative team also includes seasoned professionals such as Christopher Elias, Jenna Meschke, Christine Holloway, Adrian Holloway, Madi Lowrie, James Baxter, and Natasha Spring, who will bring their expertise in live events to ensure an unparalleled immersive experience.
Austin Trapp
Over the past six years, the creative team at Somnara Studios and Constellate Films have honed their skills in the seasonal live event and immersive theatre space. This extensive experience has laid the foundation for the debut of Dreadworks Haunted House, promising a blend of horror and innovation that will push the boundaries of traditional haunted attractions. Alexander J. Baxter, CEO and Founder of Dreadworks Haunted House & Somnara Studios, reflects on this journey: “Dreadworks Haunted House has been a journey of intense growth, learning, and international networking, particularly with the Haunters of America. 2024 marks a significant milestone as we partner with Yonkman, the City of Surrey, Sunbelt Rentals (formerly William F. Whites), Fibertek, and Phoenix tents for Dreadworks Haunted House.” Dreadworks Haunted House promises to be a seasonal highlight, offering a unique, spine-chilling adventure that horror enthusiasts will not want to miss.
Alexander and the Dreadworks Team would happily share their experience and expertise with the media.
For interview and photograph requests, please contact:
PETS & PICKERS *Season 3; Premieres July 14 at 8 p.m. ET on Discovery in Canada
Seasons 1 and 2 are streaming on ROKU and YouTube worldwide.
– The eight-episode docuseries follows the lives of pets in need and the veterinarians and animal lovers who are dedicated to helping them
VANCOUVER, BC (June 19, 2024)—Discovery takes viewers on an uplifting mission to help animals in need with the Canadian original series PETS & PICKERS. The series debuts its third season on Sunday, July 14, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Discovery in Canada. It follows a weekly release schedule, with new episodes airing Sundays. The eight-episode docuseries follows a one-of-a-kind animal hospital, the story of animals, their owners, and the exceptional team of veterinarians who care for them.
Motivated by extraordinary compassion and a singular belief that all animals deserve treatment, the heartfelt Animal Planet Canadian original series PETS & PICKERS reveals how the Regional Animal Protection Society (RAPS) Animal Hospital works tirelessly to offer pet families affordable access to top healthcare. RAPS has a unique solution to fund these treatments: their thrift store. An energetic and dedicated group of animal-loving “pickers” comb through donated mystery bins containing abandoned storage locker items; all money raised goes to pay for vet care and lifesaving surgeries. It’s a one-of-a-kind “pets and pickers” relationship with an uplifting mission: to help animals and their people.
In Episode 1 of PETS & PICKERS Season 3, Myla, the hairless Sphynx, plagued by persistent bouts of vomiting, has Dr. Ward, a fresh face at RAPS, tasked with uncovering the cause behind Myla’s mystery ailment. With a recommendation for exploratory surgery, hopes are high for locating the source of Myla’s distress. Kai, a spirited three-legged rescue dog, injures her spine after a rat chase, prompting RAPS’ other new vet, Dr. Homer, to investigate. While Dr. Martinez, the exotic animal expert, determines the ambiguous sex of a bearded dragon.
PETS & PICKERS was created and produced by Tyson Media in association with Bell Media for Discovery. Tyson Hepburn and Kelly McClughan are Executive Producers, Jennifer McCauley is the Showrunner, Eyal Litchmann is the Co-Producer, and Andrew Vacheresse is the Director.
About Tyson Media Productions
Tyson Media Productions Inc. was started in Vancouver, BC, in 2009 by award-winning Producer Tyson Hepburn. With over 15 years of experience in unscripted television, Tyson strives to turn Tyson Media into one of Canada’s premiere production companies. Tyson Media is focused on producing unscripted television programs for various broadcasters, focusing on strong characters and compelling stories. Tyson always carries the momentum aggressively forward into the development of unique character-driven concepts primed to be significant hits both domestically and internationally. They seek out the most diverse subjects nationwide to entertain and educate viewers in Canada and worldwide. Tyson Media produces powerful unscripted and docu-series, including global phenomenon RUST VALLEY RESTORERS, COLD WATER COWBOYS (Co-Executive Producer with David Paperny), and THE DOG DUDES. Learn more at tysonmedia.ca/
Pets and Pickers Seasons 1 and 2 stream on ROKU and YouTube worldwide.
Tyson is the creator, showrunner and executive producer of several successful docuseries, including global phenomenon Rust Valley Restorers (Netflix International, History Canada), Cold Water Cowboys (Discovery Channel Canada), The Dog Dudes (Amazon Prime, Apple Plus), and Backroad Truckers (History Canada). Tyson always carries the momentum aggressively forward into the development of unique character-driven concepts primed to be major hits both domestically and internationally.
Tyson began his career by partnering on projects with established production companies. When he was just 27, he teamed up with Omnifilm Entertainment to create Pyros and then with Pixcom to create Jacked! (both for Discovery Channel Canada). He then found even more success with Discovery on Cold Water Cowboys, which he co-created with Oscar-winning producer David Paperny.
Tyson creates and executive produces his projects and ensures he puts his stamp on them, leading the projects as a showrunner, series producer, and series director.
In 2020, Tyson won two Leo Awards for Best Direction and Best Series on Rust Valley Restorers. He was also nominated for Best Direction on the series at that year’s Canadian Screen Awards. In 2022, Pets & Pickers won ‘Best Documentary Series’ award at the Golden Telly Awards, and in 2023, Pets & Pickers was nominated for three Leo Awards, including Best Direction, Best Screenwriting, and Best Series.
ANDREW VACHERESSE – Series Director
Andrew Vacheresse is a freelance Director who has helped share people’s stories for over a decade. Having built his way up through every aspect of production, Andrew has sat in the director’s chair for multiple successful docuseries such as Border Security: America’s Front Line and Highway Thru Hell. His passion for storytelling began as an Assistant Director in 2011 where Andrew worked with and learned from some of the most talented Directors in factual television. From hospital settings on Emergency Room: Life or Death at VGH to welcoming people into their new homes and communities on Worst to First and Holmes Family Effect‘, Andrew is devoted to capturing unforgettable moments in people’s lives.
EYAL LICHTMANN – CEO & Executive Director
A successful entrepreneur with a knack for fundraising, Eyal was introduced to RAPS by his animal advocate wife, Mandy, who had already been with the organization for 5 years. When the Executive Director/CEO job was first floated, Eyal initially dismissed it. “I said ‘No way. I’m not working where my wife works. Forget it.’” But he was convinced by the cause – and after serious family discussions about keeping work and home separate, signed on. He set an ambitious goal of caring for every animal in need. He knew to do it, the organization had to think bigger – and expand its fundraising vision beyond what one RAPS director described as “pub nights and bake sales.” In the past five years, Eyal’s uncanny ability to see opportunities where others see risk has served RAPS well. When a storage company offered to donate the bins from abandoned storage lockers to charitable organizations so they could sell the goods for profit, other non-profits were leery, viewing it as a potential liability. Eyal saw the picking as a potential gold mine to help raise money for animal care. Another goal is to foster a culture where everyone feels like family, something newcomers to the organization and pet families often remark on. Under his leadership, RAPS has grown from treating 1200 animals yearly to 15,000. Its Cat Sanctuary houses and cares for wild and abandoned cats – with the goal of finding forever homes for as many as possible.
Filming is complete for a documentary to showcase the artists and students in Wingspan Dis/Ability Arts, Culture & Public Pedagogy in three Canadian provinces.
For immediate release, Vancouver, BC.: Filmmaker and Award-winning NFB director Thomas Buchan of Entyre Films and Professor Dr. Leslie G. Roman, visionary for the Wingspan program, are pleased to announce that Entire Films has completed the filming of a documentary for Wingspan Dis/Ability Arts, Culture & Public Pedagogy, Canada’s first accessible and inclusive Disability and Deaf Artist Residency Program in Canada’s schools and UBC VPRI Excellence Cluster. In 2024, under the leadership of Dr. Leslie G. Roman, UBC Professor of Educational Studies, in collaboration with an interdisciplinary cluster of colleagues, asks: how can the aims of Canada’s Accessibility Act take center stage in the hearts and minds of students, teachers, and staff in partner K-12 schools? The documentary follows Wingspan artists and students in the schools of three Canadian provinces: British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario.
Following the journey in the classrooms, Thomas Buchan is a Director and Director of Photography (DOP) for several feature documentaries, collaborating with the National Film Board (NFB), CBC, and the Knowledge Network. He is co-directing this film with Prof. Roman.
Filming the program began in February with a retreat at Loon Lake Lodge in Maple Ridge, BC, to co-train the teachers, artists, and staff. Students in schools have had the opportunity to have sustained learning experiences with artists with disabilities or Deafness in residencies. They have also been treated to experiences of touring artists and taken on field trips to art galleries to exhibit their art or hear the performances of Wingspan artists or perform alongside them. The showcase of celebrations of learning features the work of the Wingspan artists but, most importantly, what the students have learned from the role model artists in their classrooms in each Wing province.
Working with students in British Columbia is classical, folk, and rock singer Jugpreet Bajwa Jugpreet, who has gained worldwide recognition for performing with his motto of “Seeing the world through music.” Jugpreet’s musical journey began at the tender age of five. It evolved into a lifelong passion despite facing the adversity of Eye Cancer, to which he lost both of his eyes. Canadian audiences will know Jugpreet from his celebrity status as a televised performer of our national anthem at the Vancouver Canuck and Whitecap games.
In Winnipeg, Wingspan students have had a rich learning opportunity to work first-hand with nationally and internationally regarded Dis/Deaf artists, from renowned jazz pianist and saxophonist Connor Derraugh to Métis artist Candace Lipischak, a multidisciplinary artist who hand-carves antler jewelry. They are joined by Wingspan touring artist Natalie Sluis, who turns her hearing loss into the language of contemporary performance dance.
Toronto artists include Felicia Byron, a Caribbean-Canadian multidisciplinary artist and photographer. As a Black Jamaican Canadian woman and neurodivergent artist living with cerebral palsy, Byron employs a cinematic approach to creating still imagery through light, colour, wardrobe, prop and set design elements to build worlds, weave stories and evoke feelings of familiarity. Danielle Hyde is a multi-disciplinary Tkaronto Treaty 13 Indigenous artist with lived experience of an invisible mental health disability. Her artwork spans many mediums, including new media, murals, painting, photography, and installations, all mixed with performance. In dialogue as four-dimensional beings of hearts, minds, bodies, and spirits, we co-create decolonial ecologies of community and accessibility.
Filming has been completed in all three provinces. Once the documentary is edited, plans are to contact TV networks and documentary festivals.For more information, interviews, and photographs, please get in touch with publicist Lesley Diana | lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726-5575
Canadian Films “War Tails,” “Run for Noah” “Henderson,” “Suzy Makes Cupcakes,” and “And…Action” to screen at the Seattle Film Festival running from June 26 to June 30
The 9th annual Seattle Film Festival, under the direction of William Wayne and Michael Rey in their second year, has tripled its film screenings both online and theatrically, presenting over 450 unique films. This year’s festival features remarkable performances by renowned actors such as Isabella Rossellini, Bella Thorne, Steve Buscemi, John Leguizamo, Abigail Breslin, Justine Lupe and Oscar nominee Amy Madigan. With 437 films, including 125 features, on the eoFlix platform and 74 films, including 17 features, screened at three theatres around Seattle, the festival celebrates a new era of independent cinema, providing indie filmmakers an opportunity to reach a broader audience.
This year, the Seattle Film Festival is pleased to announce that several Canadian Productions will be screened there.
“War Tails” Wednesday, June 26th, 6:40 p.m. with Q and A to follow The Russian invasion of Ukraine created an avalanche of abandoned dogs and cats that are now multiplying, causing unforeseen consequences. War Tails is a documentary feature that captures abandoned animals’ compelling stories and struggles, shedding light on the escalating rabies crisis and the urgent need for intervention. The director and writer, Olha Byrledianu, is formerly from Kyiv. She escaped during the bombing with her dog and eventually settled in Vancouver, Canada. Producer Dan Fine will attend and participate in the Q&A after the screening.
“And… Action!” Opening Night Wednesday, June 26th, 3:45 p.m. 14-year-old British Columbia, Canada, high school student Jason Park is the writer and director of And… Action! This short film follows 14-year-old cinephile Katherine as she creates a short film with her classmates, capturing the entire process with a rapid pace and rhythm. What begins as a fun project spirals into chaos with conflicts and self-doubt, but Katherine is left with something valuable—a passion, a dream—and nothing will ever be as it was. “And… Action!” plays on opening night in the Short Program. Jason Park will participate in the Q&A after the screening.
“Suzy Makes Cupcakes” Short Program Thursday, June 27, 3:15 p.m. In the short film, Suzy Makes Cupcakes, Suzy has a unique talent: She makes the best-tasting red velvet cupcakes. She parlays that talent into getting even with her abusive husband, deceiving the local crime family, and making out with a bowling ball full of cash.
Jayson Therrien is an award-winning filmmaker and actor. Originally from Toronto, he resides in Calgary and will participate in a Q&A after the screening.
“Run for Noah” screens Thursday, June 27th, at 5:20 pm
“Courir pour Noah” tells the story of a young family from Bromont whose life took an unexpected turn when their eldest son was born with Down Syndrome. The story of a little boy with so much to teach us, and of a determined father who braves endless miles of cold roads and doubt so that love can triumph. The 60-minute Canadian production, the all-original soundtrack and an exceptional contribution by renowned pianist Jean-Michel Blais seamlessly accompany us through the rhythms of emotion and reflection. This film, directed by Samuel T. Scofy, who hails from Quebec City, is a French-language documentary and is critically acclaimed.
“Henderson” – Friday, June 28th, 7:10 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Director Lori Watt filmed “Henderson” in Kamloops, BC, with key crew members from Vancouver and Kamloops. The film star, Lesli Brownlee, is from Valemount, British Columbia, Canada, and later moved to Vancouver. She will attend the screening and participate in the Q&A as well. “Henderson” will play in the shorts block from 7:10 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, June 28th. Director Lori Watt will attend the screening and participate in a Q&A session after the “Henderson” screening.
Lori Watt has produced several stage productions, including the Ovation award-winning Canadian Premier of Heathers: The Musical. This production also received two Jessie Richardson nominations, including best production and an inaugural diversity award, for reflecting Vancouver’s cultural makeup on stage.
Festival Highlights: The festival proudly announces its opening and closing highlights in partnership with Aegis Living, the Bruce Lee Foundation, and eoFlix. The event will commence with Cassian Elwes’ gripping docu-drama “Passenger C.” Elwes, known for producing critically acclaimed films like the “Dallas Buyers Club” and “Lee Daniels’ The Butler,” makes his directorial debut with a film exploring the aftermath of a tense incident on a flight from JFK to LAX. Following the screening, a Q&A session will be held with actor Jon Jacobs, who won the Seymour Cassell Award for his portrayal of Elwes. The festival concludes with Brandt Andersen’s “The Stranger’s Case.” Andersen, known for producing “Lone Survivor” and “American Made,” makes his directorial debut with a poignant look at the struggles of several Syrian refugee families. The film, starring Omar Sy from “Luther,” will be followed by a Q&A session with producer Bryan Busse, who recently won at Berlinale with “The Stranger’s Case.”
The 9th annual Seattle Film Festival Award Show will take place on June 30 at the Edmonds Center for the Arts, celebrating this year’s achievements in filmmaking. Sponsors: The Seattle Film Festival thanks its sponsors: Maison Ferrand Citadelle Gin De France Planteray Rum LAF Tech ΘΔΧ University of Washington
Please visit www.theseattlefilmfestival.com for a complete list of films, screening times, theatre tickets, special events, and panel discussions.
Cassian Elwes’ “Passenger C” to Open and Brandt Andersen’s “The Stranger’s Case” to Close One of the World’s Largest Film Festivals for Online and In-Theater Screenings:
The 2024 Seattle Film Festival Wednesday, June 26 – Sunday, June 30, 2024
For Immediate Release, June 17, 2024, Seattle, Washington – The 9th annual Seattle Film Festival, under the direction of William Wayne and Michael Rey in their second year, has tripled its film screenings online and theatrically, presenting over 450 unique films. This year’s festival features remarkable performances by renowned actors such as Isabella Rossellini, Bella Thorne, Steve Buscemi, John Leguizamo, Abigail Breslin, Justine Lupe and Oscar nominee Amy Madigan. With 437 films, including 125 features, on the eoFlix platform and 74 films, including 17 features, screened at three theaters around Seattle, the festival celebrates a new era of independent cinema, providing indie filmmakers with an opportunity to reach a broader audience.
Festival Highlights: The festival proudly announces its opening and closing highlights in partnership with Aegis Living, the Bruce Lee Foundation, and eoFlix. The event will commence with Cassian Elwes’ gripping docu-drama “Passenger C.” Elwes, known for producing critically acclaimed films like the “Dallas Buyers Club” and “Lee Daniels’ The Butler,” makes his directorial debut with a film exploring the aftermath of a tense incident on a flight from JFK to LAX. Following the screening, a Q&A session will be held with actor Jon Jacobs, who won the Seymour Cassell Award for his portrayal of Elwes.
The festival concludes with Brandt Andersen’s “The Stranger’s Case.” Andersen, known for producing “Lone Survivor” and “American Made,” makes his directorial debut with a poignant look at the struggles of several Syrian refugee families. The film, starring Omar Sy from “Luther,” will be followed by a Q&A session with producer Bryan Busse, who recently won at Berlinale with “The Stranger’s Case.”
Highlighted Films from Specific Film Programs:
Reimagining the Future:
“Paint Her Red”: Directed by Bella Thorne, this narrative explores women’s journeys through transformative storytelling woven with melancholic prose and poetry.
Exploring Personal and Cultural Identities:
“Death of a Sheik”: Isabella Rossellini, Franco Nero, Sherilyn Fenn, and Paul Rodriguez star in this world premiere feature about silent star Rudolph Valentino, directed by Vladislav Kozlov. A Q&A with director Kozlov will follow.
“Carole and Grey”: Jon Bass, Mary Wiseman, and Steve Buscemi star in this festival world premiere, a hilarious comedic feature set in NYC. It marks Jon Bass’ directorial debut. A Q&A with Bass will follow.
“In Fidelity”: Chris Parnell, Cara Buono, Dennis Haysbert, Eve Austin, and Illeana Douglas star in this feature directed by Rob Margolies about an uncharted romantic scenario. A Q&A with Austin, who also produced the film, will follow.
“King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones”: Quincy Jones and Debbie Allen produced this documentary feature, directed by Harriet Marin Jones, exploring her grandfather’s legacy. A virtual Q&A with Jones will follow.
“Photographic Justice: The Corky Lee Story”: An intimate documentary by Jennifer Takaki that honors the pioneering work of Chinese American photographer Corky Lee. A Q&A with executive producer George Hirose and producer Linda Lew Woo will follow.
“Shape of Red”: Satoshi Tsumabuki, last year’s Japan Academy Award winner for Best Actor, stars in the US premiere of acclaimed Japanese director Yukiko Mishima’s new film, based on Shimamoto Rio’s novel “Red.” A Q&A with director Mishima will follow.
Community Across Generations:
“Go For Grandma”: “Succession” star Justine Lupe and Academy Award nominee Amy Madigan star as a flawed mother-daughter duo in this imaginative short film directed by Sabrina Doyle. A Q&A with the writer, high school student Lucian Nakazato-Patterson, will follow.
“Wiffle Ball”: Former ESPN reporter Kenny Mayne, Ken Griffey Jr., and Ken Burns star in this nostalgic Seattle-based documentary short. World Premiere. A Q&A with director Mayne will follow.
“The Italians”: Abigail Breslin, Matthew Daddario, Rob Estes, Michelle Danner, and Perrey Reeves star in this feature film, a family dramedy directed by Michelle Danner. A Q&A with director Danner will follow.
“The Allnighter”: David Koechner, James Russo, Tiny Lister, Owen Beckman, Gretchen Lodge and Justine Bateman star in Aimee Graham’s directorial debut feature about family and the defence mechanisms they unconsciously create. A Q&A with director Graham will follow.
“What Ever Happened to Jonny Faith”: Bruce Greenwood, Wayne Knight and Frank Noon star in a story about a famous country singer who disappeared at the height of his career and tries to make things right with his son before it is too late. Directed by Benjamin Pollack. A Q&A with Pollack will follow.
Animated Visions:
“Insects in the City”: Mark Polish’s animated comedy series pilot offers a humorous look at urban life through the eyes of insects. A Q&A with Polish will follow.
Noteworthy Short Films:
“Sugarman”: Seattle’s free-spirited Olympic Gold Medalist, Sugar Ray Seales, loses his eyesight and boxing career before finding one last shot in this documentary, directed by Michael Husain. A Q&A with Sugar Ray Seales and producer Bryan Boyd will follow.
“Talking In Your Sleep”: John Leguizamo stars in this short music video directed by Ashley Monet and Juancho Rodriguez. A Q&A with directors Monet and Rodriguez will follow.
The 9th annual Seattle Film Festival Award Show will take place on June 30 at the Edmonds Center for the Arts, celebrating this year’s achievements in filmmaking.
Sponsors: The Seattle Film Festival thanks its sponsors:
Maison Ferrand
Citadelle Gin De France
Planteray Rum
LAF Tech
ΘΔΧ University of Washington
For a complete list of films, screening times, theater tickets, special events, and panel discussions, please visit www.theseattlefilmfestival.com.
Wingspan Showcase features Wingspan artists, including internationally renowned Indo-Canadian classical, folk, and rock singer Jugpreet Bajwa and Manitoba musician Connor Derraugh. It highlights Seaquam Secondary and Elsie Roy Elementary students’ performances at Seaquam Secondary School in Delta, B.C., on May 31, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.
The Honorable Carla Qualtrough will be in attendance to provide welcoming words.
Wingspan: Dis/ability Arts, Culture and Public Pedagogy, is pleased to announce that the Wingspan Showcase is open to the public on May 31st, 2024, at Seaquam Secondary School in Delta at 3:00 p.m. Jugpreet Bajwa has been working with students at Seaquam Secondary in Delta and Elsie Roy Elementary in Vancouver for the past two months all to culminate in the Wingspan Showcase. An invitation is open to the media and public to experience the fantastic performances by the students. Manitoba Wingspan musician Connor Derraugh and guests join Jugpreet. The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, who has strongly supported Wingspan since its inception, will attend to open the Showcase and offer welcoming words.
Jugpreet has gained recognition worldwide for performing with his motto of “Seeing the world through music.” Jugpreet’s musical journey began at the tender age of five. It evolved into a lifelong passion despite facing the adversity of Eye Cancer, to which he lost both of his eyes. Canadian audiences will know Jugpreet from his celebrity status as a televised performer of our national anthem at the Vancouver Canuck and Whitecap games. A graduate of Seaquam Secondary, he returns as a role model and a barrier-breaker at both schools. His life’s mission is spreading love and peace through music globally. “Jugpreet has been creating magic in the Wingspan classrooms, and we are thrilled to share the enthusiasm from his students in the performances at the Wingspan Showcase,” says Dr. Leslie Roman, Wingspan visionary.
Jugpreet is joined by Manitoba musician and Wingspan artist Connor Derrough at the Wingspan Showcase. Music has always been central to Connor’s life. At 15, he suffered a traumatic brain hemorrhage during routine surgery. Connor has performed at the Winnipeg Jazz Festivals and the Asper Jazz Series and is a regular performer with the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra.
Wingspan Dis/Ability Arts, Culture & Public Pedagogy is Canada’s first accessible and inclusive Disability and Deaf Artist Residency Program in Canada’s schools and is a UBC VPRI Excellence Cluster. In 2024, under the leadership of Dr. Leslie G. Roman, UBC Professor of Educational Studies and visionary for the Wingspan program, in collaboration with an interdisciplinary cluster of colleagues, asks: how can the aims of Canada’s Accessibility Act take center stage in the hearts and minds of students, teachers, and staff in partner K-12 schools? Like starlings in a murmuration, Wingspan has flown into schools in three Wing Provinces: British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario. Wingspan, this year, has gone national.
“Creating inclusion begins with educating students, teachers, and educational leaders that disabilities or Deafness are not something to fear or feel shame about. The more we learn, the more we appreciate what artists with disabilities and Deafness bring to the table of our schools (K-12) and our entire educational system”, says Prof. Roman, a leading scholar of disability studies and sociology of education. Artists have been placed in K-12 schools or as touring artists who perform in art galleries, museums, or community centers.
We encourage the media and the public to attend this unique showcase to share the incredible performances the Wingspan artists and students have created in the classroom.
The Wingspan Showcase is free to the public – May 31st at 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Seaquam Secondary School 11584 Lyon Road, Delta, BC, V4E 2K4 604-591-6166
Wingspan artists, teachers, cluster leaders, and educational leaders for both districts are available for interviews, photos, and more information upon request.
For more information, photos, and interviews, please contact:
Actor Donald Heng’s upcoming supporting lead role in Sight, starring Terry Chen, Greg Kinnear and Ben Wang, opens in 2100 theatres worldwide on May 24th, 2024.
The movie is a true story based on Dr. Ming Wang, a world-renowned eye specialist whose technology has restored sight to millions of people.
Actor Donald Heng is thrilled to join the stellar cast of the feature film Sight, which opens in theatres worldwide on Memorial Day Weekend, May 24th. Sight, starring Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning actor Greg Kinnear (Little Miss Sunshine, As Good As It Gets) and Terry Chen (Almost Famous, Falling) is based on the true story of Dr. Ming Wang, a poor Chinese American who defies all odds to become a world-renowned eye surgeon in the United States. Set in 1970s rural China, a teenage Ming is played by Ben Wang (Disney + American Born Chinese) as he faces persecution and despair at every turn. Still, with his dedicated family’s support and unwavering determination, he finds his way to America, attends Harvard and MIT, and helps develop an innovative technology that restores sight in millions of people. Taking on the seemingly impossible challenge of helping a blind orphan, the resilient Dr. Wang must reconcile with his traumatic past and face the harsh reality that the strength of his own will can only go so far.
Donald portrays the role of Zhensheng, Dr Ming Wang’s (Terry Chen’s character) young father, in all the flashback scenes. He worked alongside Ben Wang (who has just been cast as the new upcoming Karate Kid opposite Jackie Chan) and Jayden Zhang (Shang Chi), who portrays an even younger version of Dr. Ming Wang.
Donald has already had a busy year in 2024. Earlier this year, Donald guest starred in 3 different network shows: CBS’ Tracker, The CW’s Family Law, and ABC’s The Good Doctor. In the 2nd episode of 2024’s biggest network show, Tracker, entitled Missoula, Donald portrays Jackson Cheong opposite Justin Hartley (This is Us, Smallville) as an accountant who has recently cut ties with his family and joins a cult. Jackson’s parents hire Colton Shaw (Justin Hartley) and successfully track him down, discovering that Jackson may or may not be there of his own free will.
In the season premiere of the final season of The Good Doctor, Donald plays Owen Pierce, a father whose son urgently needs a heart transplant. In season 3 of Family Law, Donald was cast as Theo Leung, a man who becomes entangled in an inheritance dispute with his sister soon after their father passes away.
Most recently, Donald also appeared in a supporting role opposite Emmy-award-winning actor Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) as Dr. Berton in the indie black comedy American Dreamer, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. The film also stars Academy Award winner Shirley MacLaine, Academy-Award-nominated actor Matt Dillon, and Danny Glover. Furthermore, he recently wrapped filming in an undisclosed role in the highly anticipated upcoming sci-fi blockbuster film Tron: Ares (Jared Leto, Greta Lee).
In 2022-2023, Donald had a 7-episode recurring Guest Star role as Anthony Chan in The CW’s Kung Fu. Anthony is introduced as the district supervisor of Chinatown, running for re-election. He is a family friend of Tzi Ma’s (Rush Hour, Arrival) character “Jin.” They are initially allies fighting for the exact cause until Jin discovers Anthony is being blackmailed, pitting them into a campaign against one another in the upcoming election.
Also, in 2023, Donald was cast as one of the leads in Hallmark Channel’s movie Retreat to You. In it, Donald plays a chef at a resort who falls in love with MeganHeffern’s (Wynona Earp) character.
Throughout his career, Donald has had a leading role in an episode of the CW’s Two Sentence Horror Stories and other guest star spots, including roles on the CW’s The Flash, CBS’ Ransom, and CityTV’s The Murders. He also has a recurring role as George on one of Netflix’s most popular shows,Virgin River.
On the big screen, Donald has appeared in a supporting role alongside Milo Ventimiglia (This is Us, Gilmore Girls) in Fox Studio’s The Art of Racing in the Rain. He was also thrilled to appear alongside some of Asia’s biggest stars for the project Fatal Visit (Sammi Cheng, Tong Dawei, Charlene Choi), in a role where Donald only speaks Mandarin and Cantonese for the first time on screen.
Donald resides in Vancouver and has studied and trained with acting coaches Rick Tae, Terry Knickerbocker, Jeb Beach, Matthew Harrison, Andrew McIlroy, Ben Immanuel, and Robin Nielsen.
Donald is available for interviews and photos upon request.
