Rounding the Corner, 11min., Canada
Directed by Quinn O'Connor
“Rounding the Corner” follows the motivational story of former Olympic sprinter, Molly Killingbeck, and her devastating setback at the 1988 Olympics. She recounts the event that marked a turning point in her life, and the end of her career as an athlete. Years later, she returns to the track as a coach, using her experience and unshakable resilience to inspire a new generation of athletes.

Get to know the filmmaker:

What motivated you to make this film?
There were many motivating factors behind this film, but if I had to pick one, it would be to challenge the assumption that successful athletes—or even successful people for that matter—avoid failure on their path to success when in reality, it's quite the opposite.

From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
Start to finish, the film took roughly six months to complete. Most of that time was spent planning locations and sourcing archival footage, alongside editing footage we captured over two separate shoot days.

How would you describe your film in two words!?
Raw Inspiration!

What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The biggest challenge was condensing Molly's entire career into an 11-minute timeline without it feeling rushed, yet still maintaining a strong narrative pace.

What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was incredibly happy with the feedback—it felt like the confirmation I needed that the film landed the emotional beats I was aiming for. My initial concern was that the tone might come across as more dejected than motivational, but based on the audience's responses, I don't think that was the case.

When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
As a former athlete and a lifelong filmmaker, I think I've always felt the pull to tell stories like this—cliché as that might sound. The initial thought of creating this film specifically came to me last spring, and we began shooting in mid-June.

What film have you seen the most in your life?
Aside from A Christmas Carol (1951), which my dad insists we watch every Christmas Eve, I'd say The Dark Knight is a close second.

What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Honestly, hosting these in-person screenings is more than enough. They're a fantastic way for young filmmakers like me to connect, network, and feel part of a creative community.

You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site?
Submitting through FilmFreeway has been completely seamless—no notes!

What is your favourite meal?
This answer changes month to month, but right now I'd say seared salmon sushi is my go-to.

What is next for you? A new film?
My most immediate goal is to break into the commercial space in Toronto as a cinematographer, so for the time being, I'm developing some spec projects with friends from film school to be shot throughout the summer.