LOGGING ALGONQUIN, 28min., Canada
Directed by Conor DeVries
Logging Algonquin is a 28 minute documentary film that looks at the historical and on-going logging happening in Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada. Through conversations with indigenous locals, scientists, foresters, and political experts, the film asks the question:

http://www.loggingalgonquinfilm.com/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I was approached by a gentleman named Dave Marcus who told me about the logging that is happening in Algonquin Park and while I've camped there many times I had no idea this was happening. I was immediately intrigued and started to look into it and once I learned more I was sure I wanted to explore this issue further and we agreed to partner together to make this film.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
Close to 2 years with approx. 1 year of filming off and on.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Historical Beauty

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
It was very hard to get people to agree to talk on camera about the issue. I quickly learned that it is a very sensitive issue for many people on both sides of the table and so lots of people weren't willing to go on record about the logging that was happening.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It was awesome to hear the feedback and learn that the film was well received by so many people. The best was hearing that many of the viewers had learned a lot about the issue by watching.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
It was well backpacking on an extended year long trip which I truly was inspired by the beauty of this world and that I wanted to find some way to help capture and share that.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
One of Wes Anderson's movies. Seen them all many times so I'm not sure which.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
It would be amazing to have more accessible meetups for the filmmakers who have brought films along with potential producers and industry professionals who might be looking to partner with new artsist.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
It is great, it gives access to so many festivals that I otherwise would have no idea about.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Seafood Pasta.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I am finishing a couple of short films at the moment which should be done this year but also looking into a feature length project that would be a continuation of sorts from this film. It would be focusing on the logging happening in the Boreal Forests and the extensive forest fires we have been experiencing across North America as a result.