I was introduced by Gay Decker from the SJIFF Board of Directors. Photo Courtesy of Signalblog.ca
My experience in St. Johns at the women’s film festival was incredible. The people nicer, the drinking more prolific, the fish and chips fresh+greaser, the film programming entertaining…the whole thing was better than I expected or deserved.
I’m told 2 things about St. Johns: 1)They have the highest number of artists per postal code in the whole world. 2)They have the highest number of bars per city block… I would say without a doubt, those two facts play strongly into their jovial nature.
I spoke before the screening of “Going to seed.” I didn’t know until I was walking into the venue. But it turned out ok I think. I made them laugh at least. A little self deprocation goes farther in Canada than here in the states. That and when they found out it was my first festival they cheered. (How cool is that?)
The crowd seemed to genuinely like, and understand “Going to seed.” That in itself was amazing. (To hear them all gasp at the end?!)
My goofy Minnesota grin while trying not to puke in front of hundreds of gracious Newfoundlanders.
I was even approached over a random solitary lunch by Des Walsh, the Garrison Keillor of NL, and he mentioned he like my film and thanked me for bringing it to St. Johns.
The festival volunteers and coordinators were the best hosts. I’m submitting “Strays” the first second I can and hopefully make it back next year.
If this film business doesn’t pan out, something tells me I’d make a great Newf Fishwife.
WIFT reception with Katie Butler, Event Coordinator, St. Johns International Women's Film Festival