Local Filmmaker and Actor, Logan Mainil, is bringing a unique 8-hour filmmaking challenge to Weyburn. Armed with formal training at New Image College in Vancouver and first-hand experiences in film crews, such as the lead actor on the set of Mercy (2020), Mainil hopes to build a thriving community of filmmakers in his hometown in the midst of a growing industry.

"What I want to do is bring a group of people together that are willing to learn and have the experience of shooting a short film under tight parameters. [The Challenge] is meant to get more people involved in the industry... I'm hoping to inspire people in Weyburn and watch young artists grow. I'm eager to bring new blood into the industry and help it flourish."

This will be the first time Mainil has put together a workshop for newcomers to try their hand on set, but he hopes that there will be enough interest to make it a monthly meetup. No prior skills or knowledge are needed to join the crew. Mainil says to simply "Bring a lunch, a positive attitude, and the ability to work together in a joyful way."

He goes on to say, "The plan is to write, shoot, and edit a short film in under 8 hours. We have room for 8 people in the crew, and 3 have signed up already. The sooner everyone signs up, the more we can communicate and plan ahead, so sign up quickly!"

However, the workshop is more than just a fun way to try out new skills. There will be more roles to fill in the Saskatchewan Film Industry as new projects arrive in increasing numbers, and Mainil says that finding your way 'in' is much easier with a bit of networking; "Getting started in this Industry is about who you know, and not what you know. Luckily I was able to take some of the opportunities given to me and was able to meet some really wonderful people."

Although it is a less 'steady' line of work than most are accustomed to, Mainil says that positions are open everywhere as long as you are willing to work in whatever roles are needed, and you do not need to land a job in Hollywood to have a career in filmmaking.

"Believe it or not, we are getting money back from the Government to make stuff. There's a lot of projects coming down the pipe, like Zarka, or another web-series called King Killers... There's a $25,000 grant that I'm looking to apply for and make a short film as a proof of concept for a feature film that I'm writing."

Joining Logan Mainil's workshop is free and can be done at the Weyburn Public Library. The Crew will meet on the morning of May 13th and will start production immediately. Additional details of the event will be provided by Logan Mainil following sign-up at the library. Bring a lunch, and any equipment you may have that could help with production.

To register for the event call (306)842-4352.