Silver Wave Film Festival celebrates their 25th anniversary
- Malachi Lefurgey and Josh Eidt
- Nov 10
- 2 min read
On Friday, Nov. 7, the second night of Fredericton’s Silver Wave Film Festival took place at the Gallery on Queen, where local filmmakers showcased their films to the public.
Though the night began at the Gallery, they moved to Tilley Hall at the University of New Brunswick (UNB).
People of all ages and backgrounds attended, from students to seniors.
Some were even seen bringing chips and beer, making the lecture hall seats feel like their at-home sofa.
“I think this is a good opportunity to get involved in the local film scene; I found the event and have been interested since last year,” said Hai Vu, an attendee of the event.
Vu said he considered himself a "casual viewer" and highlighted the importance of local film festivals.
“Artists have the vision to tell their own stories. Their films incorporate elements of the sea, the ocean, the fishing life and the rustic life of university students. I think it is something that can’t be captured in more modern movies.”
11 Films were shown at the first venue, all experimental in nature. The films ranged from Trajectories: Making of Quiet on Kökar, a documentary about a group of experimental musicians using an arctic island’s natural sounds to create music, to brain_rot_vol1.mp4, a short film that reflects other movies in the form of emojis.
Tilley Hall featured more traditional short films, though no less exciting.
Meatdog Productions’ Butter garnered much laughter and Never Got My Shirt Back, starring Camryn Gaudet, received roaring applause.
“I really liked my performance and I loved the films,” said Gaudet.
Gaudet hopes to win Best Lead in a short film at the Silver Waves Award Gala.
Tony Merzetti, the executive director of the New Brunswick Filmmakers Co-op, has been involved in the festival since it started 25 years ago.
“I think the audience reaction shows that people are really getting into what everyone had produced tonight,” said Merzetti. “Very talented individuals, both in front of the camera and behind it.”
Friday night was an industry showing, in which industry executives attended the event looking for filmmaking talent. Some films shown at the event were produced in part with the financial support of institutions such as the CBC.
“Seeing the filmmakers having the chance to meet up with CBC and Bell, it’s a great way to network,” said Merzetti.
Every day until Nov. 13, there will be events and screenings, showcasing more short films and feature-length pictures, including comedy and documentaries.
The festival will end Thursday night with a 25th anniversary closing party at Picaroons Roundhouse.