Working on a Feature Documentary throughout 2019 – 2020 Toronto Film

Crew up north outside Beavercreek prison after an Interview

2019 has been an incredible career rejuvenation for me that will be difficult to put into detail in one post. I can attribute this new found passion, to exploring new career paths. This includes working as a crew member for a 2020 Toronto feature documentary with Black King Entertainment and its CEO/Director Rico King. Working as Associate Producer and Production Manager has been a great experience on many levels.

In February 2019 I joined Rico’s crew in pre-production for a dramatic and emotional documentary about the impact of guns and gang violence in the GTA. Rico produced an award-winning documentary ‘Tears In The Bayou’ in Houston Texas, where he was raised, and is currently living in Toronto with his family.

Beaver Creek Institute

Together, we researched and conducted multiple interviews throughout 2019 which included but was not limited to; mothers who lost children to gun violence, children who have a parent in prison due to gun crimes, prison mates who face life imprisonment, community activists, ex-prison mates, support workers, plus the police task force who are actively providing programs to push change in the gang/gun violence communities.

Setting up at Collins Bay Penitentiary

Tried to hold back tears during many of our emotional interviews….with our Director.

Our topic and subjects are intense, and our goal is so that the public is further educated and pushes this movement forward, and to better understand the minds of those who have suffered through these malicious gun crimes. This is an increasing epidemic, and one that we hope will be impacted by our film and promote change.

One of our amazing interviews with an inspiring kid!

I can not imagine what these mom will forever endure losing their child….

DOP Joe on set striking a pose for me.

2019 also provided lots of laughs working on our film, and an overall learning experience that I am thankful for.

Another first—- I learned how to shoot rifles! Not going to lie…it was a cool experience.

With Ron Chhinzer -Detective Constable

Working on this film led me to the strong desire to produce and direct my own first documentary short film. Having already completed a few interviews, Rico King thankfully assisted filming the first interviews when his busy schedule could allow.   My journey continued with meeting talented veteran filmmakers in 2020 who have given me increased guidance and encouragement. Meeting accomplished Canadian Producers and Directors who have provided enthusiastic support, has meant the world. I am looking forward to deciding on a future producer on this exciting project.

Most of all, having the subjects of my documentary who live in Milan, allow me a rare privilege into their personal story, has been an opportunity that I could not ignore. 

A teaser for my short doc… Riccardo, Jennifer (surrogate) and Daniele

There is still so much for me to learn and explore, but this has been yet another journey that teaches to ‘Go for it!’, work hard, think outside the box, keep learning and embrace the challenge. More posts on my 2021 short documentary film coming soon…..

Anita

Completion of interview #2…. after the wonderful arrival of Lorenzo. 75% left of production to go.