Canada is home to amazing film talent, both on-screen and behind the scenes. With Hollywood often getting the spotlight, it’s crucial to promote local artists and stories. Initiatives like TELUS Originals and the Whistler Film Festival work to do just that. The festival is a five-day event filled with film premieres, industry discussions, and guest speakers, and TELUS Originals is proud to feature two films this year.
TELUS Originals highlights unique, local stories through impactful documentaries. Their films, Menopause: Coming in Hot and Our Kind of Chaos, aim to connect B.C. and Alberta filmmakers with audiences everywhere.
Ryan Stutt, Co-Director of Our Kind of Chaos, says, “Without TELUS Originals, stories like this might not be told. With everything changing in media, platforms that share Canadian tales are becoming rare.”
Our Kind of Chaos explores the iconic early-90s WHISKEY snowboard films and the lives of the men behind them. It focuses on how Canadian snowboarding culture began and the challenges these men faced as they grew older. “They were pioneers who turned the camera on themselves and their lifestyle,” Stutt explains. “Their rawness is still surprising today, but it opened up a new era in filmmaking.”
This documentary dives deep, showing how joy and pain can coexist in life. Stutt reflects on how the main subjects, now in their 50s, are revisiting their pasts through old footage. They’ve confronted significant personal hurdles, and sharing those stories is a privilege for the filmmakers.
While Stutt avoids clichés like “emotional rollercoaster,” he anticipates an unforgettable first screening in Whistler. “I expect locals who remember those days will have a mix of emotions, from laughter to tears,” he adds. The film sends a powerful message that it’s never too late to confront your struggles and strive for a better life.
TELUS Originals plays a significant role in financing projects like this, emphasizing their importance in film production in Canada. Stutt notes that the support has been invaluable, saying, “We wouldn’t have been able to make this film without them.”
For those who can’t make it to Whistler, TELUS Originals offers a range of Canadian and Indigenous films available for streaming. Their collection includes outdoor sports stories and women’s issue films. Check out more options here.
According to recent surveys, local stories in media resonate strongly with audiences, with 75% of viewers preferring content that reflects their culture and experiences. This trend indicates a growing demand for authentic storytelling, which makes events like the Whistler Film Festival even more vital. By supporting local talent, we open doors for future generations of Canadian filmmakers.
