Tag Archives: photography

Roham Rahmanian And His Company, The Astronauts Guild, Developing One Of The First Stereoscopic 180 And 360 Degree Camera Systems To Capture First-Person, Live-Action Virtual Reality Experiences

The Promotion People - AstronautsGuildLogoThe Astronauts Guild’s Roham Rahmanian, producer, director and a feature and commercial Digital Imaging Technician in the International Cinematographers Guild, announced today that he and his partners at The Astronauts Guild have begun test trials on 180 and 360-degree camera systems to capture first-person virtual reality experiences.  The Astronauts Guild partners are Roham Rahmanian, Founder | Supervising Producer, Scott Connolly – Founder | Head of Production, and Ian Spohr – Founder | Creative Director.  Tests and previews will be available online at www.theastronautsguild.com in October of 2014.

The rush is on for content providers for the new technologies, and CGI content has already made a splash in gaming and for early-adopters and developers.  However, the live-action content is much more technically challenging to create.

The Astronauts Guild succeeded as stereoscopic producers by staying lean & mean, and adapting current equipment and technology.  Those experiences gave them the insight to develop 180 and 360-degree camera systems for shooting first person, live-action virtual reality experiences.

“The virtual-reality revolution is upon us, and The Astronauts Guild wants to be on the forefront of creating quality, live-action content for entertainment, and possibly more importantly, for medical applications.  When 3D became the rave a few years ago, it took off with a Wild West, every man for himself explosion.  No standardization and no quality control.  This created a lot of content that was just plain bad, Because of this trend, many consumers had bad experiences” said RahThe Promotion People - Roham Rahmanianmanian.

“I hope, the early content creators for Oculus Rift and Sony Morpheus, including The Astronauts Guild, can come to a consensus early on, about quality control and mathematically calculated standards for content, it is of the utmost importance that the consumer feels comfortable trying out virtual reality, and is excited to make it a part of their daily entertainment experience,” added Rahmanian.

The Astronauts Guild is a collective of dreamers, doers, artists and technicians. A group of talent which is equal parts Production Company, creative collective and technical development firm. They take on projects in the entertainment industry which require an advanced knowledge of production and cutting edge technology to achieve a creative end.

In addition to developing 3D camera rigs, new live-action virtual reality shooting systems, producing and directing, Rahmanian is an always-in-demand Digital Imaging Technician. Rahmanian has worked with many world class brands such as:  BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, VW, Fiat, Dodge, Ford, Chevy, Coke Zero, Mountain Dew, Nintendo, Microsoft, Target, Walmart, Verizon, AT&T and many more.

The Promotion People - Roham RahmanianRahmanian was one of the stereoscopic producers on the “The Girl from Nagasaki” which was presented in the New Frontier Category at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival.  World-renowned photographer Michel Comte directed the stereoscopic feature film, a new interpretation of the classic Puccini Opera “Madame Butterfly”.

Additionally Roham and his partners have produced many advanced technology projects such as an art installations for the Soho House and the short film “Unbeleafable: A Girl Skateboards 3D Film,” created with the renowned skateboard director Ty Evans in partnership with the Levi’s Film workshop for the Museum of Contemporary Arts (MOCA) in Los Angeles and presented during their Art in the Streets Exhibition in 2013.

About Roham Rahmanian
Roham’s work has ranged from his first job as Assistant Props at the age of 16 to Fashion Photographer, Director of Photography, Digital Imaging Technician, Producer and finally Director. He has been involved in over 500 national/international spots since 2010.

Social Media Handles

Website: rohamrahmanian.ca, theastronautsguild.com
Facebook: facebook.com/pages/The-Astronauts-Guild
Instagram: @astronautroham
IMDb: imdb.com/name/nm2440237
Vimeo: vimeo.com/58491591

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People

Canadian star Kaj-Erik Eriksen adds another franchise to his impressive list in the Soska Sisters Slasher Sequel “See No Evil 2”

The Promotion People - Kaj - Erik EriksonCanadian actor Kaj-Erik Eriksen has appeared in some of the most beloved franchises of all time – including “MacGyver,” “NCIS” and “Star Trek.” The Vancouver native is at it again with a starring role in the Lionsgate and WWE Studios film “See No Evil 2,” the sequel to the surprise slasher hit featuring wrestler Kane.

The movie premieres Friday, October 17, 2014 on Digital HD and Video on Demand, followed by a DVD and Blue-Ray release later in the month. In line with the horror theme, filming took place in an abandoned mental institution.

Directed by filmmaking twins Jen and Sylvia Soska (a.k.a. the Soska Sisters), the second installment sees madman Jacob Goodnight (played by Kane) rise from the dead and wreak havoc among a group of friends at the morgue. Eriksen plays Seth, an earnest guy who works at the morgue alongside Amy (Danielle Harris) and happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time.

“For me it was exciting,” Eriksen told Rotten Tomatoes at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con. “It’s a lot of running and yelling and getting chased and blood and splattering – it was fun. I hadn’t done a horror movie in a long time, so it was cool to jump back in.”

“See No Evil 2” marks Since then the Canadian actor has made numerous appearances on the small screen, including as a series regular in the USA Network, Emmy-nominated show “The 4400.”

The Promotion People - Kaj - Erik Erikson

About Kaj-Erik Eriksen
Kaj-Erik Eriksen has been acting for more than 29 years, which is impressive considering he’s only 35. Born and raised in Vancouver, B.C., Eriksen began his acting career at the tender age of six. After just a handful of extra and small speaking roles, the young actor landed a part in the independent feature “Quarantine.”

Around that same time, Eriksen booked a guest-starring role in “MacGyver,” one of the most popular shows at the time. It also happened to be Eriksen’s favorite series as a child and one that he would return to a few years later for another guest stint.

In 1991, after scoring a number of movies and guest roles on TV, the Canadian talent landed the part of David Scali, the son of Michael Chiklis’ character on the hit ABC drama “The Commish.” The show introduced Eriksen to millions of American fans and earned him the attention of critics, who gave him nods for a Youth in Film Award, a Hollywood Reporter Youth Star Award, and two YTV Achievement awards.

Eriksen worked on a number of other projects during “The Commish’s” five-year run, including a remake of the classic film “Captains Courageous” and popular kids TV shows such as “Goosebumps” and “Are You Afraid of the Dark?”

He moved to Los Angeles at the age of 17, where he continued to grow as an actor with guest roles in “Home Improvement” and “Walker Texas Ranger.” In 1999, the Vancouver native returned home to shoot two seasons of Showtime’s “Beggars and Choosers,” a short-lived series that garnered critical praise and a devoted cult following.

Upon coming back to L.A. in 2001, Eriksen landed one of his most important roles to date: the part of Jeremy Peters on David E. Kelley’s “Boston Public.” What was originally supposed to be a mere four-episode arc evolved into a recurring role over the span of two seasons. Eriksen also appeared in the action thriller “88 Minutes” starring Oscar-winner Al Pacino.

Since then, the Canadian star has been featured in ” Stephen King’s “Dead Zone,” “Criminal Minds,” “The Closer,” among many others. Eriksen has also been seen starring alongside Richard Thomas in the Hallmark movie “Time After Time.” He will next be seen on Hallmark Channel’s “Signed, Sealed, Delivered: Christmas Special.”

In his spare time, Eriksen studies karate and enjoys photography. He also collects Victorinox Swiss army knives, an obsession that started because of his love of “MacGyver.”

Social Media Handles

Website: kaj-erikeriksen.net
Twitter: @KajEriksen
Facebook: facebook.com/KajEriksen
IMDb: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0259264/?ref_=sr_4

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People

W Network’s Big Competition Series Game of Homes Announces Cameron Mathison as Host

W Network’s Game of Homes, announces Cameron Mathison as series host. The Emmy® nominated actor has graced the screen in both film and television projects. Mathison , a Sarnia, Ontario native, made his feature film debut in 54, opposite Salma Hayek and Ryan Phillippe, he followed that role up with the independent movie Washed Up and the feature film The Surrogate, which was released in 2013. A man of many talents, Mathison, is a featured contributor for ABC’s Good Morning America and Entertainment Tonight, and has also appeared on the fifth season of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars, where he advanced all the way to Week nine.

The Promotion People - Game of Homes - Cameron Mathison

Cameron Mathison host of W Network’s Game of Homes

As host of the series, Mathison will guide teams of skilled amateur home renovators as they compete for the chance to trade their skills for the prize of a lifetime. The teams save rundown houses that are marked to be torn down and revive them into dream homes. Each team must redo the houses room by room, as they cope with small budgets, tight deadlines and even tighter living spaces.

The action-based series pits each team’s skill, ingenuity and teamwork against each other. In each episode, two expert judges along with a celebrity guest judges including Jillian Harris and Todd Talbot from W Network’s Love It or List It Vancouver, Drew and Jonathan Scott from the Property Brothers and CMT Canada’s Kortney and Dave Wilson from The Wilson’s Flip Out, vote for their favourite room renovations based on design and workmanship. In the finale, in addition to the judges, the public will cast their vote.  The winners will be revealed and awarded with the house they have renovated.

Produced by Great Pacific Media in association with W Network, Vancouver based Game of Homes includes eight one-hour episodes and is scheduled to air in March 2015 on W Network.

The Promotion People - The W Network

About W Network
W Network is the leading destination for Canadian women offering a range of compelling entertainment ranging from original programming to lifestyle series, blockbuster movies and popular dramas. Award-winning WNetwork.com offers an appealing second-screen experience with in depth show information featuring articles, videos, photo galleries, recipes and resource guides. With its extensive research capabilities and consumer insights, W Network is recognized as a leading expert in marketing to women. W Network is owned by Canadian-based media and entertainment company Corus Entertainment. For more information, visit WNetwork.com and corusent.com.

 

Social Media Handles

Website: corusent.comgreatpacifictv.comWnetwork.com
Twitter: @GameOfHomesTV, @CameronMathison@CorusPR@GreatPacificTV@w_network
Facebook: facebook.com/gameofhomestvfacebook.com/wnetwork

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People

Open Casting Call for W Network’s New Reno Competition Series Game of Homes

Casting underway in Vancouver

W Network and Great Pacific Television are looking for competitors who need a step up in the real estate market and are willing to put all of their renovation skills to the test. Game of Homes, a new show coming to W Network this fall, is an eight-part reno competition event series with an exciting twist. Casting is currently underway in Vancouver.

W Network needs four teams of talented home renovators who have what it takes to go head-to-head and completely transform rundown houses in Vancouver into spectacular showhomes.

The team with the most impressive renovation will win one of the biggest prizes in Canadian television history – their house, mortgage-free!

The Promotion People - The W Network

Teams of two, who have the skills and confidence to rip apart, rebuild and redesign rooms under tight budgets and impossible deadlines are encouraged to apply.  Teams could be romantically linked, friends, workmates or family members. Contestants need to be available for an extended filming period during September/October months in Vancouver.

Over the eight episodes, the teams will breathe new life into derelict dumps. Beating the other teams will take every ounce of ingenuity, design consciousness and renovating skill to achieve the most shocking transformation.

For more information and to apply please visit www.gameofhomescasting.ca

The Promotion People - Great Pacific Television

Game of Homes is produced by Great Pacific Television, the production company behind Highway Thru Hell and Untold Stories of the ER.  The new series joins a full slate of successful original Canadian series that W Network has become known for, including Property Brothers, Buying & Selling with Property Brothers, Love It or List It, Love It or List It Vancouver and Undercover Boss Canada. The series is produced in association with W Network.

Social Media Handles

Website: gameofhomescasting.cagreatpacifictv.comwnetwork.com
Facebook: facebook.com/gameofhomestvfacebook.com/wnetwork
Twitter: @GameOfHomesTV@GreatPacificTV@w_network

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People

Gemini Award-Winning Gabrielle Miller Makes Her Directorial Debut in Seed&Spark’s Newest Project ‘CLAUDETTE’

The Promotion People - Seed & Spark

Gabrielle Miller is set to direct a short film starring her Corner Gas co-star, Tara Spencer-Nairn and Toronto actor, Scott McCord. Currently in pre-production, the film will shoot for two days on December 7th and 8th 2013 in Toronto. Entitled, CLAUDETTE, the script is a murder mystery surrounding the disappearance of the title character’s husband.

Through the platform of Seed&Spark, the film will be produced primarily through donations. They will go forth in whatever manner they can based on their fundraising at that time, which will end a few days after they wrap. This gives viewers a unique opportunity to actually be a part of the outcome by contributing in real time in response to activity on set. Every donation increases their ability to make a better film, and the more they have going in, the more resources will be available on that day.

Find out more about the project and how you can support it at: seedandspark.com/studio/claudette

The Promotion People - Claudette

SYNOPSIS
After an early morning spent replanting her garden, Claudette wearily comes inside her home. It is autumn, the leaves are falling, it’s not the time for this type of yard work, but that does not concern her. She is too concerned with other things.

Once in doors, Claudette removes her gum boots and places them just inside her kitchen next to a muddy shovel. She climbs the stairs, removes her clothes and showers. Claudette towels off. Claudette gets dressed. Claudette quietly and meticulously packs her bags.

Later, in her kitchen, Claudette lights a kettle for tea on the stove, one last cup before– there is a tapping at the back door, a knocking rather. Claudette goes to it.

It is Detective Koslovski. The Detective assigned to her husband’s case. He had been coming around a lot, but not for the last few weeks. She had wondered about that… she wonders why he was back here now. On today of all days.

Koslovski admires her garden. Claudette agrees to allow him to come inside once he tells her that some ‘news’ has come to light.

In her living room she sits with Koslovski as he explains that the people that her husband owed money to are not the type of people that one would necessarily want to owe money to.

Claudette lets this information bounce off of her shoulders as casually as she can, declaring it was not she but her husband, Jeremiah, who owed the money. Claudette’s evasiveness leads Koslovski to call out the elephant in the room. He states aloud that it is most likely that her husband has absconded leaving his troubles for her to deal with.

The tea kettle in the kitchen whistles. Claudette asks if Koslovski would like some tea and begins to wonder just what exactly Koslovski is here to ask her…

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Promotion People - Gabrielle Miller

GABRIELLE MILLER – Director/Producer

Gemini award-winning Gabrielle Miller (Corner Gas, Call Me Fitz, Moving Day) has appeared in over 75 productions in the past two decades. She is best known for her lead roles on two television series: the runaway hit CTV series Corner Gas, and the critically acclaimed dramedy Robson Arms. In 2013, Gabrielle was nominated for a Canadian Screen Award for her role in Mike Clattenburg’s feature film Moving Day, the opening film for the Canadian Images Program at VIFF in 2012. Combined, Gabrielle has garnered 12 Gemini and Leo Award nominations and five wins. In 2012, Gabrielle had the honor of being a member of Oldenburg International Film Festival’s first ever all female jury. Gabrielle can be heard this fall in the City TV/Hulu adult animated series, Mother Up!, and her most recent foray in the world of independent film, Down River, can be seen in theaters in the Spring of 2014. Gabrielle splits her time between her residences in New York and Toronto.

“I come from a performing background, having been an actor for over twenty years in Canada and the United States. I am very excited to be making my directorial debut with CLAUDETTE.” – Gabrielle Miller

 

The Promotion People - Alexander Cendese

ALEXANDER CENDESE – Writer/Producer

Alexander Cendese is a American/Canadian actor, writer and producer living in New York and Toronto. Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to a Canadian father and an American mother, Cendese spent significant time in Florence, Italy growing up, before attending the Perry Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp and eventually, Carnegie Mellon, where he received his Bachelor’s in Acting from the School of Drama in 2004. In 2004, Cendese took up permanent residency in New York City, where he has been a working actor ever since. In 2011, Cendese developed, produced and appeared in the feature film, Blumenthal, starring Brain Cox and Laila Robins. Blumenthal had its world premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival in 2013 and is set for a spring 2014 release. Cendese has produced several short films, including Feeling Tall, and Defaced, which he wrote, shot, edited and directed, and he recently wrapped principal photography on the feature, Best Man in the Dark, which he co-wrote and starred in. Since November of 2012, Cendese has maintained a home in Toronto, as well as New York City.

“I wrote CLAUDETTE for Gabrielle Miller to direct. She is one of the most talented actors I have ever known and having been closely involved with her over the last few years has led me to understand her deep desire to approach story telling from a new perspective. We both share an innate interest in telling stories specifically about women who do extraordinary things. Without painting Claudette’s actions one way or the other, it can certainly be said that she is a surprising woman.” – Alexander Cendese

The Promotion People - Tara Spencer-Nairn

TARA SPENCER-NAIRN – Claudette

Spencer-Nairn was born in Montreal, raised in Vancouver and currently calls Toronto home. A former competitive gymnast, she is a graduate of the Vancouver Film School. Her big breakthrough came in 1999, when she was cast as Lou in the highly-acclaimed film New Waterford Girl which played at Sundance and TIFF and was nominated for seven Genie awards. Tara is best-known for her Gemini-winning turn as Karen Pelly on the #1 rated sitcom Corner Gas. She can currently be seen in the recurring role of Sandy in CTV’s hit drama The Listener.

Photography credit: Ted Belton

The Promotion People - Scotty Headshot

SCOTT MCCORD

Scott Mccord is an actor, musician, voice actor and filmmaker. He is bandleader for the soul-rock band SCOTT MCCORD AND THE BONAFIDE TRUTH (Best New Artist of the Year Nominee – 2010 Maple Blues Awards). Scott recently appeared on stage in Rosa Laborde’s MARINE LIFE (Aluna Theatre) and Sky Gilbert’s NAKED HAMILTON.

Film and TV credits include LOST GIRL, 16 BLOCKS, SHOOT EM UP, REPUBLIC OF DOYLE and THE ELEVENTH HOUR. Animated TV series include TOTAL DRAMA ISLAND, BAKUGAN BATTLE BRAWLERS, MOTHER UP! and CAMP LAKEBOTTOM. Scott’s voice acting talents led to him being invited to New Zealand and Australia as a celebrity guest for ARMAGEDDON FAN EXPO 2011.

The Promotion People - Ken Krawczyk

KEN KRAWCZYK, CSC – Director of Photography

Having been behind the camera on many award winning series like, Corner Gas, Hiccups, and recently, In Security, Ken Anton Krawcyzk has experienced success at many levels as a director of photography. Although best known for his series work, Krawcysk’s love for motion photography goes beyond television comedy. Driven to create engaging photography for over twenty five years, Krawczyk has extended his craft to many feature film and commercial projects. Krawcyzk was nominated for the Gemini Award for best photography in a comedy program in 2008, 2010, and 2011. Most recently he was nominated for a Canadian Screen Award for his photography on In Security in 2013.

Social Media Handles

Website: seedandspark.com/studio/claudettegabriellemiller.com
Facebook: Seed&SparkGabrielle MillerScott Mccord
Twitter: @claudetteshortf@MillerGabrielle@alexcendese, @TSpencerNairn@ScottyMcCord, @seedandspark

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People

Indiecan Entertainment has acquired the Canadian distribution rights for Ben Ratner’s feature Down River

The Promotion People - Down River

Down River is written and directed by multiple award-winning writer/director Ben Ratner (Moving Malcolm) and produced by James Brown. Executive Producer is Jack Ong.

Down River had its World Premiere at the Cinefest Sudbury International Film Festival and also screened at the Calgary International Film Festival. The film will get a special Gala presentation on October 5th as part of the ‘Spotlight on BC’ section of the Vancouver International Film Festival and will screen again on October 9th.

Down River is the emotionally stirring story of three young women teetering on the edge between creative breakthroughs and personal breakdowns, and their connection with the older woman they rely on for guidance, support and inspiration.

Inspired by Ben Ratner’s long-time comradeship with actress Babz Chula who passed away in 2010, Down River is a film about mentorship, friendship, living life to the fullest, and ultimately letting go.

“I am very excited that Indiecan will be releasing Down River.  Ben has done a masterful job with this sweet, passionate and memorable film. I am looking forward to sharing this wonderfully acted and executed film to Canadian audiences across the country,” said Indiecan’s Avi Federgreen.

“We are very excited to have IndieCan as our Canadian sales agent for Down River. As a boutique company, IndieCan gives us the reassurance that our film will be very well looked after and promoted to the widest possible audience.  Avi’s passion for Canadian film and commitment to getting independent films into the marketplace serves us extremely well and we are delighted to have him aboard.” Producer – James Brown

Down River stars three Gemini award-winning actors Helen Shaver, Gabrielle Miller, Colleen Rennison and Ratner’s real-life wife, Leo award-nominated Jennifer Spence. Other actors joining this first-rate cast include Jay Brazeau, Ali Liebert, Brian Markinson and Teach Grant.

Director of Photography is Larry Lynn. Edited by Rob Wenzek. The sound track includes original songs by Kevin House, Colleen Rennison and The Boom Booms.

BEN RATNER is an award-winning actor, writer and director.  His directorial debut, Moving Malcolm, received a Best First Feature honour at the 2003 Montreal World Film Festival and played at festivals all over the world, from Vancouver to Kolkata, India. Down River marks his second time as a writer/director.

GOSSAMER CREATIVE INC. AND HAVEN FILMS produced Down RiverThe film was made in part with the financial participation of Telefilm Canada and additional financing was provided by the Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit (CPTC) and Film Incentive BC (FIBC).

HAVEN FILMS is a Vancouver based Production Company, owned and operated by writer/director/actor Ben Ratner.  Haven Films previously produced the feature comedy ‘Moving Malcolm’ which Ratner wrote, directed and starred in and which won Best First Feature at the 2003 Montreal World Film Festival.

GOSSAMER CREATIVE is a Vancouver-based film production company with ties to Gossamer Threads, a leading internet technology firm with deep roots in data storage and online distribution founded in 1996.  “Down River” is Gossamer Creative’s first feature film credit and the company has several other projects in development.

The Promotion People - Indie Can

INDIECAN ENTERTAINMENT focuses on Canadian independent, low-budget (less than $1.5 million) films. As a distributor, Avi Federgreen follows the same principle that earned him his reputation as a filmmaker; bringing Canadians films they want to watch. Aside from the traditional distribution route, INDIECAN leans heavily on digital delivery. INDIECAN helps films find more opportunities with audiences through TV, Netflix, iTunes, websites, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms. INDIECAN’s vision is to not only support Canadian production but to encourage the viewing of Canadian films by Canadian audiences. Indiecanent.com

 

Social Media Handles

Website: benratner.comdownrivermovie.comindiecanent.com
Twitter: @Haven_Studio, @DownRiverMovie@indiecanent
Facebook: facebook.com/DownRiverMoviefacebook.com/IndiecanEntertainment

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People

 

ACTOR NICOLE OLIVER PLAYS STAGE MOTHER IN ‘LEAP 4 YOUR LIFE’ WORLD PREMIERE AT THE VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Nicole joins her young son William Ainscough, star of CITY TV’s “Seed” for Season 2.

The Promotion People - Nicole Oliver

Multi-faceted entertainment ‘superwoman’ Nicole Oliver is in demand more than ever, as an actor and in the voice-over market. Again this fall, she will be splitting her time between Halifax and Vancouver.

In Vancouver, Nicole is playing a stage mother in the upcoming independent feature film “Leap 4 Your Life”, premiering at VIFF on September 30th and October 10, 2013. Also starring “So You Think You Can Dance” Allie Bertram, April Telek and CCMA-nominated Mackenzie Porter. This amazing mockumentary about the quirky, cut-throat world of Competitive Dance is sure to be a festival favourite!

In Halifax, ‘life is imitating art and roles’ as Nicole joins her young son, William Ainscough, who stars as Billy in City TV’s second season of “Seed”. She will once again be playing Billy’s teacher, Mrs. Anderson, in several episodes this season, as well as perfecting her chops as the Ultimate Stage Parent to William behind the scenes. Recently announced season 1 of “Seed” will air on The CW Network (The CW) in the United States.

Nicole has just completed a supporting role in the soon to be released Hallmark film, “The Christmas Ornament” starring Cameron Mathison and Kellie Martin. She has guest starred on numerous television series; recent roles include “Supernatural and “Rogue”. She has also starred in many MOW’s including recent releases“The Woodcarver” with John Ratzenberger; “Taken Back – Finding Haley” with Amanda Tapping and “Innocent” with Bill Pullman and Marcia Gay Harden. For 4 seasons, Nicole was also the host on the hit Slice Network series “Crash Test Mommy”.

Photography credit: Dan Poh

The Promotion People Nicole Oliver

Well known throughout the world at Brony and Fan Conventions as Princess Celestia and Cheerilee on “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic” and Zoe on the cartoon “Littlest Pet Shop”, her voice-over work continues to thrive. In animation, in addition to My Little Pony and Littlest Pet Shop, she continues her popular roles on “Max Steel”, “Martha Speaks”, “Strawberry Shortcake”, and “Superbook”. She is currently the voice for Wireless Wave, and has provided her voice to over 100 companies including American Express, Starbucks, Salon Selectives, Club House, Wireless Wave and IKEA. Nicole is also the narrator for the feature film “Heart of a Dragon”, Executive Produced by Mark Gordon and David Foster, and based on Rick Hansen’s “Wheels in Motion” tour.

Not only is Nicole a successful actor, producer, and director, she is also a mother, a wife, and role model of our time who believes that diversification is the key to success. Proof that with success in life there can be balance Nicole completed her MA in Communications while acting. An entrepreneur, she started Predator

Communications with her husband (and award-winning film and television composer) Chris Ainscough. Predator Communication creates, executes, and delivers specialized production for multi-media platforms.

 

Social Media Handles

IMDb: Nicole Oliver
Website: nicoleoliver.com
Twitter: @mouthnoize
Facebook: Seed

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People

Helen Shaver, Gabrielle Miller, Jennifer Spence and Colleen Rennison star in actor/writer/director Ben Ratner’s feature film Down River screening at the Vancouver International Film Festival, Cinefest Sudbury and the Calgary International Film Festival

Down River has been selected to be the Gala Film for the October 5th spotlight on BC screening at the Vancouver International Film Festival

The Promotion People - Down River

Gossamer Creative and Haven Films are pleased to announce that Down River has been selected to be the Gala Film for the October 5th Spotlight on BC Screening at the Vancouver International Film Festival.

Vancouver International Film Festival – Showtimes
October 05, 6:30 pm
Vancouver Playhouse
600 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC

October 09, 4:30 pm
Rio Theatre
1660 E Broadway, Vancouver, BC

Down River will also be screening at Cinefest Sudbury on September 22nd and the Calgary International Film Festival on September 28th and 29th.

Calgary International Film Festival – Showtimes
September 28, 7:00 pm
Globe Theatre
617 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB

September 29, 1:30 pm
Eau Claire
200 Barclay Parade SW, Corner of 2nd St & 2nd Ave SW, Calgary, AB

Written and directed by multiple award-winning writer/director Ben Ratner (Moving Malcolm), Down River is the emotionally stirring story of three young women teetering on the edge between creative breakthroughs and personal breakdowns, and their connection with the older woman they rely on for guidance, support and inspiration.

The Promotion People - Jennifer Spece

Gemini award-winning Gabrielle Miller (Corner Gas, Call Me Fitz, Moving Day) portrays an in-demand but insecure actress. Gemini award-winning Colleen Rennison (DaVinci’s City Hall and lead singer of fast-rising band Nosinner) plays a gifted but self- destructive rock singer. Ratner’s real-life wife, Leo award-nominated Jennifer Spence (Continuum, Stargate Universe, The Killing) plays a dynamic abstract artist hiding under a paint-stained hoodie. And Gemini award-winning Helen Shaver (The Color of Money, Desert Hearts) plays their charismatic and caring neighbour who eventually leaves them to face the future on their own.

The Promotion People - Ben Ratner

Inspired by Ben Ratner’s long-time comradeship with actress Babz Chula who passed away in 2010, Down River is a film about mentorship, friendship, living life to the fullest, and ultimately letting go.

Other actors joining this first-rate cast include Jay Brazeau (Fathers and Sons, Insomnia), Ali Liebert (Bomb Girls, Harper’s Island), Brian Markinson (Continuum, Mad Men) and Teach Grant (Cult, Gunless).

Written and Directed by Ben Ratner. Produced by James Brown. Director of Photography is Larry Lynn. Edited by Rob Wenzek. Executive Producer is Jack Ong. Original songs by Kevin House, Colleen Rennison and The Boom Booms. Down River was shot in Vancouver.

 

Social Media Handles

Website: downrivermovie.com
Twitter: @DownRiverMovie
Facebook: facebook.com/DownRiverMovie
YouTube: Down River Movie Teaser

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People

“THE MAGIC FERRET” BEGINS FILMING IN VANCOUVER

Starring Jacob Tremblay, Beverley Elliott, Fred Ewanuick, Lisa Durupt & Falcor the Ferret

The film will feature the song “Magic” as sung by Singer/Actress Selena Gomez in its closing credits.

The Promotion People - The Magic FerretCanadian Film Director, Alison Parker, is proud to announce that her upcoming short film, “The Magic Ferret” will begin shooting on September 7, 2013 and will shoot over two days in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The film is slated for a late 2013 release.

“The Magic Ferret” is the first film ever to be produced by Pacific Backlot Services, an equipment rental house in Vancouver, BC. The award-winning script was written by Scott and Paula Merrow of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Alison Parker, Hugh Brompton and Synnove Godeseth are also producers, with Shawn Seifert as Director of Photography. Several major companies have secured product placement in the film, including Hasbro, Pop Chips, KIND, Marshall Pet Products, Red Dragon Apparel, Defenders of Wildlife, Crayola, Sunmaid and iHome.

“The Magic Ferret” is a family-friendly comedic story centering around a six-year old orphan named Sam (played by Jacob Tremblay, known for his role as “Blue Winslow” in the Sony Pictures feature film The Smurfs 2) and his pet ferret, Booger (portrayed by Falcor the Ferret). Sam is as cute as a button, but he just can’t seem to find a family who wants him. When the newest prospective parents come to visit, Sam decides to impress them with a few magic tricks. He becomes “The Great Sambini”, with Booger as his assistant. When his most amazing trick flops, Sam is deflated but not defeated, and with Booger’s help he conjures up a different kind of magic.

Also starring in The Magic Ferret is Beverley Elliott, known for her role as “Granny” on ABC’s TV series Once Upon A Time. Canadian actor Fred Ewanuick from the TV shows Corner Gas and Dan For Mayor and the 2005 film Just Friends and actress Lisa Durupt, who is best known for her role as Shandra on HBO’s “Less Than Kind”, join Elliott, Tremblay and Falcor the Ferret to round out the cast.

The film will feature the song “Magic” as sung by Singer/Actress Selena Gomez in its closing credits. The song, originally performed by the Scottish band, Pilot, in 1974, reached #1 on the Canadian music charts in July of 1975. Gomez’ version of the song, which has over 40 million views on YouTube, was also heard in the Disney Channel original Movie Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie in 2009. It was also featured in the film adaptation of Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules. In addition to Selena Gomez’ rendition of “Magic”, the soundtrack to “The Magic Ferret” also includes the hits “Spaceman” by Canadian singer Bif Naked and “This House” by Calgary’s own Cat Thomson.

 

Social Media Handles

Website: themagicferret.com
Twitter: @SamAndBooger
Facebook: facebook.com/TheMagicFerret

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People

LEA THOMPSON (BACK TO THE FUTURE, 
“CAROLINE IN THE CITY”) AND MATREYA FEDOR 
(“CEDAR COVE,” “MR. YOUNG”) STAR IN THE 
UP TELEVISION PREMIERE: MY MOTHER’S FUTURE HUSBAND

Ensemble Cast Includes Sebastian Spence, Gig Morton, 
Burkely Duffield and Everick Golding

Production began this week in Vancouver on UP’s Television Premiere My Mother’s Future Husband, starring Lea Thompson (Back to the Future, “Caroline in the City”) and Matreya Fedor (“Cedar Cove,” “Mr. Young”). The film is produced by Legacy Filmworks Ltd. and directed by George Erschbarner (“A Trusted Man”), who also directed Thompson in 2008’s “The Christmas Clause.” Julie Brazier (“My Name is Sarah”) wrote the script. My Mother’s Future Husband will make its world television premiere on UP in 2014.

The ensemble cast also includes Sebastian Spence (“Battlestar Galactica: Blood & Chrome”), Gig Morton (“Mr. Young,” “Christmas Town”), Burkely Duffield (“House of Anubis,” “Supernatural”) and Everick Golding (Scooby Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed, “Human Target”).

The Promotion People - Lea Thompson

A mother and widow of five years, Rene Anderson (Lea Thompson) has thrown herself into running her cozy bistro with friend, cook and co-owner Lou (Everick Golding) and wrapped her entire social life around being her 15-year old daughter Headly’s (Matreya Fedor) BFF. While Headly still grieves the loss of her dad, she’s also discovering boys – specifically Bodie Miller (Burkely Duffield), the handsome jock who recently returned to town – and songwriting. Determined to get out of fancy dinners and zumba lessons with mom, Headly sets some secret romantic goals for them both – help Rene find love and get her own first meaningful kiss – before summer arrives. With her astronomy-obsessed best friend Willis (Gig Morton), Headly concocts a variety of schemes to find her mother’s “future husband,” from interviews in the park for “a Social Studies project” to creating an online profile and video link of Rene talking about herself and looking very pretty. After successfully maneuvering several nice guys into the bistro, sparks seem to fly with windowed dad Andrew (Sebastian Spence), but a misunderstanding threatens to derail Headly’s plans. Meanwhile, Headly discovers dating is more challenging than expected. With summer looming, Rene and Headly ultimately find that they must first deal with the past in order to open their hearts to the romantic possibilities in front of them.

“Mother-daughter relationships are one of the greatest in the world,” said Barbara Fisher, svp, original programming, UP. “This special film explores how this loving, funny, sometime aggravating, unbreakable bond provides the key to a mother and daughter both moving forward and discovering love in their lives again.”

The Promotion People - Matreya Fedor

UP presents a Legacy Filmworks Ltd. production. My Mother’s Future Husband stars Lea Thompson, Matreya Fedor, Sebastian Spence, Gig Morton, Burkely Duffield and Everick Golding. Directed by George Erschbamer. Produced by by Deboragh Gabler. Casting by Judy Lee. Director of Photography is Cliff Hokanson. Editor is Mauri Bernstein. Composer is Peter Allen. Script by Julie Brazier.

Follow our cast at:
Lea Thompson on Twitter @LeaKThompson
Matreya Fedor on Twitter @matreyafedor
Gig Morton on Twitter @Gigmorton or on his website www.gigmorton.com
Burkely Duffield on Twitter @burkelyduffield

For photos and more information, please visit: UPtv.com/MyMothersFutureHusbandPressRoom.

About UP
UP, based in Atlanta, is America’s favorite network for uplifting family entertainment. The network presents original and acquired movies, series, stage plays and music specials along with gMovies, the first faith-friendly streaming movie service. The UP brand is reflected in “Uplift Someone,” the network’s successful pro-social initiative. UP can be seen in more than 61 million homes on major cable systems including Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Cox Communications and Charter Communications, as well as DIRECTV on channel 338, DISH Network on channel 188, and Verizon FiOS on channel 224. Follow UP on Facebook & Twitter facebook.com/UPtv & @UPtv.

About Legacy Filmworks
With offices in Vancouver and Los Angeles, Deboragh Gabler founded Legacy Filmworks Ltd. to create critically-acclaimed, financially successful movies for the international marketplace. Legacy is one of the most respected film production and distribution companies in Canada, with over 60 theatrical features, TV movies and series to its credit, including Bang, Bang, You’re Dead (Emmy, Peabody Award), My Name is Sarah (Prism Award), Miracle of the Cards (Epiphany Award) and Haunted (DGA award, Movie Guide Award).

Social Media Handles

Website: UPtv.com
Twitter: @UPtv
Facebook: facebook.com/UPtv

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People