On Friday March 18th and Saturday March 19th, the Chlotrudis Society for Independent Film is pleased to join The Brattle Film Foundation in presenting the regional theatrical premiere of WILBY WONDERFUL, a charming ensemble film featuring the cream of Canadian acting talent. Cast member Ellen Page is scheduled at presstime to be in attendance to introduce the film and participate in audience Q&A on Saturday night (check back for updates and additional guest announcements).
Ms. Page, most recently in the Sundance attention-grabber HARD CANDY, and Sandra Oh, a member of the much-feted (and Chlotrudis Awards nominated SIDEWAYS cast, are among those playing the residents of Wilby, a small Cape Breton island town that only seems idyllic. The film charts the goings-on and whereabouts of a handful of townspeople over the course of a single day, and in so doing reveals that, even as their lives are inextricably intertwined, each of them harbor a secret or two. Life’s comedy, pathos, drama and farce are all brought to life by an impressive cast that also includes Paul Gross, James Allodi, Callum Keith Rennie, Rebecca Jenkins and Maury Chaykin.
WILBY WONDERFUL is the second full-length feature for Mr. MacIvor, a celebrated Canadian playwright and performers who also wrote the original screenplay and plays a minor role. The film has received two Genie Award (Canada’s Oscar) nominations this year, including a Best Supporting Actress nod for Ms. Page, whose first film, MARION BRIDGE, which picked up last year’s Best Cast and Buried Treasure Chlotrudis Awards and was written by MacIvor.
To celebrate the young actress’ auspicious beginning, the Chlotrudis Society will also present Ellen Page with its Breakthrough Award as part of its 11th Annual Chlotrudis Awards ceremony on Sunday, March 20th. In addition to the astounding work Ms. Page has evidenced in her Canadian features, CSIF is looking to the near future when she surprises American in HARD CANDY, a raw and controversial film that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year. The public is invited to attend – festivities begin at 5pm, and admission is $15. Ms. Page joins French director Lucas Belvaux (THE TRILOGY) and Vermont film-maker John O’Brien (NOSEY PARKER), who will also be in Boston to accept their achievement awards in person.
For more showtime information on WILBY WONDERFUL, you can consult the Calendar section of the Brattle Theatre’s website. The Chlotrudis Society for Independent Film is a Boston-based non-profit group that teaches people to view film actively and experience the world through independent film, and encourages discussion. Visit the Nominations page for more information on this year’s list of Chlotrudis Award nominees.