Making a movie has many facets to it, from drawing storyboards to casting calls. However, nothing compares to seeing your project on the big screen at one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world.
The Fredericton-based filmmaker Arianna Martinez debuted her first feature film, Do I Know You from Somewhere?, at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on Sept. 6.
The movie explores topics such as romance, sci-fi and the consequences of the choices you make throughout your life.
When she participated in her first 48-hour film competition about a decade ago, she fell in love with filmmaking. Since then, she decided to embark on her journey as a professional filmmaker and director.
Along with her production partners, Gordon Mihan and Lance Blakney, they looked for ways to fund their projects and work towards their goals as a production team.
“It’s something really special about when you go to screen your film,” Martinez said.
She described showcasing her film at TIFF as an out-of-this-world experience. She also mentioned how the screening made her feel liberated. Once it’s handed over to an audience, it’s up to them to gather their thoughts and decide what their take is.
“I felt really excited and blessed to be there and the film was really well-received,” Martinez said.
For Martinez, the evolution of the film was dear to her heart. From writing the story in the script to seeing the actors give their hearts out on the screen.
Martinez’s filmmaking process is based on the art of embracing human connection.
“[The actors] brought so much to it and brought all of these kind of nameable feelings to life, which was really cool to behold,” she said. “I couldn’t have asked for anything better.”
Martinez recalled one of her favourite moments filming when her crew had an unexpected visit on set.
“Just felt serendipitous and like a good omen. We had just wrapped for the day and, at the location, a baby moose showed up on set,” she said.
In addition to being a film director and producer, Martinez completed a Bachelor of Education at St. Thomas University, which has been useful in her current job as an instructor at the New Brunswick College of Arts & Design.
“It’s kind of like the best of both worlds. My two passions in life come together,” Martinez said.
As a STU alumna, she highlights her experience taking theatre and storytelling classes while completing her undergraduate degree. Martinez then added her love for storytelling started at STU.
Since Martinez’s film is still in the festival circuit she expects the next screening to happen this November at the Silver Wave Film Festival in Fredericton. Nevertheless, her team is preparing a theatrical release for her film in early 2025.
“My next project is in development … the idea is kind of surrounding our continuum folklore.”
Martinez also gave a shout-out to independent and local filmmakers she thinks students should look out for: Jillian Acreman, Gia Milani, Ry O’Toole, Ty Giffin, Lance Blakney, and Gordon Mihan.
“I think they are doing really cool work, both in short films and with features,” Martinez said.
