Local Filmmakers Encouraged to Submit Their Work
To The Haldimand Press
HALDIMAND—Filmmakers and film-buffs alike will soon be enjoying the return of ‘Watch Local Week’, a free annual event featuring the best in locally–focussed and locally–produced film and television in Haldimand County and Norfolk County. Created through a partnership of the Norfolk County Public Library and the Haldimand County Public Library, with presenting sponsors Rainey Media, Windecker Road Films, and Riverside Communications, this year’s event will include in-person screenings and virtual streaming from April 18-24, 2022.
“The Haldimand County Public Library is excited to partner once again with the Norfolk County Public Library, Windecker Road Films, Rainey Media, and Riverside Communications, to grow our connection to the film community. We have so many talented filmmakers in the area and its great how Watch Local Week helps us to build these relationships with local film creators and offer something unique and fun for the community to enjoy,” said Paul Diette, CEO, Haldimand County Public Library.
With pandemic restrictions lifting, organizers of the second annual Watch Local Week are particularly excited to hold in-person events where filmmakers and attendees can interact and discuss all aspects of filmmaking.
“We were so happy with the response we received last year for our first Watch Local Week, and we were grateful to have provided entertainment for the community during a time when so much was shut down, but there’s nothing like hearing feedback from your audience, so we’re thrilled to be able to offer a hybrid event this year,” explained Dean Rainey of Rainey Media, based in Delhi. “We have some great in-person screenings planned for our local libraries, plus the continuation of streaming of films and shows for everyone to watch at home.”
The full event schedule and film list will be released over the coming weeks, but one confirmed event is an interactive virtual Filmmaker Question & Answer Session on Tuesday April 19th featuring some of the participating directors and producers.
“Our ‘Meet the Producers’ Live Q&A was one of the most popular elements of last year’s Watch Local Week, with ultimately over 1,500 people tuning in on Facebook. We’re excited to have another great conversation where the community can learn about the many aspects of filmmaking and get to know some of our local talent,” said Belinda Smith, Virtual Library Coordinator, Norfolk County Public Library.
Some of the confirmed titles available for streaming include two popular TV shows: the season three premier episode of “Tailgate Talent Show” by Rainey Media and season three of “Music From Windecker Road” by Windecker Road Films. In-person screening options include Rainey Media’s roller derby documentary “Down & Derby” and a sneak preview of a new project from Windecker Road Films. A new offering this year for in-person audiences is the opportunity to view a sneak preview or a ‘rough-cut’ of a film and share feedback directly with the director, granting the audience a window into the creative process.
“As a filmmaker, it’s so gratifying and helpful to get feedback from an audience. I look forward to hearing from the crowd, answering their questions, and especially chatting with young people who are interested in film, because this industry will only continue to grow,” added Graeme Bachiu of Windecker Road Films, based in Cayuga.
Local filmmakers interested in showing their work at Watch Local Week are encouraged to apply. Films and shows can be of any genre or length. The submitted films must be produced or directed by a person with a connection to Norfolk County, Haldimand County or Six Nations. Visit www.raineymedia.com/watchlocalweek to download the submission form, which must be received no later than April 4, 2022. Filmmakers can also email library@haldimandcounty.on.ca if they have any questions.
All participants for Watch Local Week events, both in-person and virtual, must pre-register online at www.raineymedia.com/watchlocalweek. Keep checking the site for updates over the next few weeks, as a full schedule of events will be available in early April, when registrants can reserve their spot for in-person events. One convenient link will be provided to registrants prior to April 18th for easy streaming all week long from April 18 to 24, 2022.
