With Patrick Curran
How did this film come together?
I wrote the script in 2019 and it sat on a shelf. I pitched my producing partner another project and he said No, not til Snowbird flies. We started crowdfunding the next day.
Did anything unexpected happen as you were making this film?
LOADS. FilmLA pulled our permits hours before their offices closed on a Friday, with our first shot scheduled for Saturday morning. Lawyers in NYC had to get involved. We got our permits approved with 3 minutes left in the day.
What's the best filmmaking advice you've ever received?
Make film with your friends and family. Tell stories that are important to you. Surround yourself with cheerleaders and get used to hearing no. If your story moves you, it WILL move others.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I spent my summers growing up on PEI. Maritime Canada is such a special place to me and my family. Snowbird is a love letter to that time in my life, the people, the music, the sensibilities. It is such a thrill to be included in the Nickel.
Elling Lien
