A London-based director’s film is premiering at the Toronto Independent Film Festival. The Stunt Driver, directed by London’s Michael Dowse, follows the story of stunt driver and daredevil Ken Carter, as he attempts to drive a car across the Saint-Laurent river from a 30-metre-high ramp. The film will also open London’s Forest City Film Festival (FCFF) next month.
“It’s a Canadian film through-and-through,” says Ethan Hickey, FCFF executive director. “Shot in Canada, made by Canadians.”
Michael Dowse, and Jay Baruchel, who plays Ken Carter in the film, are expected to do a Q&A panel after the FCFF showing, he says.
Launched by Dorothy Downs in 2016, the Forest City Film Festival plans to show 141 films over the course of 11 days. “The films range from extremely local and regional films, to films that have premiered at TIFF and [conventions],” says Hickey.
The co-ordinator for Fanshawe College’s Television and Film program, Joel Merritt, says he’s hopeful the film will draw in more work for the London film industry. “We always appreciate when some of our locals out there are able to show we are generating talent for film making and the community. […] What I hope is that we keep attracting more and more people that are interested in producing their films in this community.”
