Film company hosts Meet and Greet

An Edmonton-based production company, A Little Late Films Production and Western Directives Inc. held its second public meeting last Thursday in Whitecourt. Film owner and producer Tim McKort and Bert Roach, Economic Development for Woodlands County met with the public to discuss the next steps in creating a feature film which will be shot in the area using backdrops from various locations around the area.

Over 60 people attended the Meet and Greet to ask questions and get a better understanding of the film. On McKort’s last visit to Whitecourt, he announced they would be seeking residents to act in the movie or be involved in the background. Those interested met with McKort to find out exactly how they can be a part of it.

Jazmine Davis, a Grade 11 student from École St. Joseph, submitted her name to be considered for an acting role. Davis, a director for the school’s theatre group said, “I submitted my name for consideration in an acting role or an extra as it will help improve my acting skills and boost my confidence.” Another school student, Jenny Clark, the lead actor who works alongside Davis, also submitted her name for an acting role. Both young ladies have participated in about five school productions in front of crowds as big as 300 people.

Both McKort and Roach were very pleased with the turnout for the meetings. “Considering it was a workday, I was surprised to see this many people attend,” said McKort. Applications are still being collected at this point and will take some time to go through.

 “The Woodlands County area was chosen for the film set because of its gorgeous scenery, the many biosystems, and the biodiversity the area offers. It’s a great green space to shoot in,” said McKort. While he has submitted a proposal to the Town of Whitecourt to participate, he has not received any communication back at this time.

The film will be an 89-minute action/drama thriller involving Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) agents, some intrigue, espionage, and topics of news such as election rigging. It will begin shooting in May or June of 2020.

The script for the film is complete. Work is now progressing on all the logistics that go along with it such as planning accommodations, food, supplies, and getting all the people in place. Some locations have already been selected, but McKort and his cameraman will be back in two weeks to scout out more locations while it’s still summer and everything is green.

McKort would like to get more people, businesses, and the community involved. Anyone interested in learning more can contact Tim McKort at westerndirectives@shaw.ca.