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"FOR CHRIST'S SAKE"
21 minutes
2023
Canada
English
Arri Alexa Mini
1.85:1
Colour
Drama
 
Written and Directed by SIMON MCNALLY
Executive Producer LISA GROOTENBOER, CCE
Produced by SIMON MCNALLY and MELISSA BESSEY
 
SEAN B. WILLIAMS
LISA KOVACK
ASHLEIGH MORRISON
SAIDA ALI
 
"FOR CHRIST'S SAKE"
 
Cinematographer DAVID NGUYEN
Editor JENNIFER ESSEX-CHEW
Music by DUSTIN PETERS
Sound Designer GEORGE FLORES, CAS, MPSE
Production Designer MELISSA BESSEY
Costume Designer AHNA DUNN-WILDER
Casting Director RON LEACH
Headshot
Director's Biography

Simon's road to filmmaking has been paved with creative pursuits, a deep immersion into the art world and a surprising inspiration. Originally from Toronto, he completed a BFA with a Major in Fine Art focused on painting and drawing at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, followed by a BA in Visual Arts with a Major in Art History (NSCAD), and finally an MA in Art History at the University of British Columbia. Simon has exhibited his works in various group and solo exhibitions in both Vancouver and Toronto, all while gaining further experience in art by working in galleries and museums. Eventually, seeking to broaden his horizons, Simon decided to pursue his passion for food, wine and hospitality by joining Toronto's thriving restaurant industry. One restless night over a simmering stock pot, Simon realized he had another creative pursuit in him--that of acting. He embarked on training and began performing in community theatre, short films and TV commercials. Switching to the other side of the camera, Simon started producing experimental short films and narrative scene studies. These video projects developed rapidly over the next several years, during which time Simon trained in screenwriting, directing and myriad aspects of technical filmmaking, ultimately leading to directing a play (Opening Night) and working as a script supervisor (Adult Adoption, North of Normal, Mustache). Simon's first film, For Christ's Sake--where he served as writer, director and producer--was inspired by a childhood event. Simon looks forward to developing his feature-writing skills and finding his next opportunities to direct for the stage and screen.

Director's Statement

For Christ's Sake is about a personal experience I had going home for Christmas one year. Growing up in a broken home did its damage to me as a child, but as an artistic adult I decided to try to make something good out of it. My hope is that this film will resonate with others who may have had a similar experience, or who simply connect with the universal theme of belonging. This project has been a healing experience for me, allowing me to accomplish something lasting for myself, find my voice as an artist and even rewrite my own childhood story.

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News and Reviews
2nd correction BonW AWARD OF MERIT - Canada Shorts International Film Festival - 2023.png

Monday, December 4th, 2023.

For Christ's Sake has received the Award of Merit from Canada Shorts International Film Festival.

Complete List of Winners:

ALT_BW_HEL_OFFICIAL SELECTION - Berlin Weihnachtsfilm Festival - 2023.png

Monday, November 13th, 2023.

For Christ's Sake has been Officially Selected by Weihnachts Film Festival Berlin.

Official Website:

BW LAUREL_TOIFF_BEST SHORT FILM - Toronto Independent Film Festival - 2023.png

Monday, September 25th, 2023.

For Christ's Sake has been awarded Best Short Film (Festival Director Award) by the Toronto Independent Film Festival.

Complete List of Winners:

Thursday, July 27th, 2023.

For Christ's Sake has been Officially Selected by the Toronto Independent Film Festival.

Schedule:

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