As the Director of Photography for the short film “Imelda,” it was an incredible experience to work alongside the talented Martin Villeneuve and contribute to bringing his grandmother’s story to life on screen. The film, which follows the larger-than-life character of Imelda as she faces a bucket-list of challenges in the years leading up to her 100th birthday, was based on real events and delves into the ties that bind a family together.
One of the most exciting aspects of the production was the opportunity to shoot on location in the actual village where Imelda lived and where the Villeneuve family still has a house. This allowed us to capture the authentic atmosphere and surroundings that were so integral to the story, and it was clear that the cast and crew were all deeply invested in bringing Imelda’s world to life on screen.
In addition to the village location, we also shot in one of the nicest convents in old Quebec City. The convent provided a unique and beautiful setting for some of the film’s key scenes, and the contrast between the two locations helped to create a rich visual tapestry for the film.
A talented cast of actors
The film featured a talented cast of actors including Martin Villeneuve in the titular role of Imelda, playing the role of his own grandmother. The film also starred Quebec singer Ginette Reno, renowned actor Robert Lepage, Anne-Marie Cadieux, Yves Jacque, Antoine Bertrand and Michel Barrette. This dream cast brought depth and nuance to the story, making it a truly memorable film for audiences. Each actor brought their own unique style and talent to their roles, making for a truly compelling and engaging viewing experience. The casting choices for the film were spot-on, perfectly capturing the spirit and essence of the story and bringing the characters to life in a truly authentic way.
A dedicated team of professionals
The production was entirely done for free, with no one receiving payment for their work. This was a testament to the passion and dedication of everyone involved in the project, and it was truly inspiring to see how everyone rallied around the film and its message. Despite being rejected by the Quebec and Canadian agencies that support film production, we were determined to bring Imelda’s story to the screen.
The hard work and dedication of the entire team paid off, as the film was a huge success. It had a six-week run in theaters in Quebec, and went on to win numerous awards at film festivals. The film’s success was a testament to the power of a good story and the dedication of a talented team.
Working on “Imelda” was an unforgettable experience for me, both as a Director of Photography and as a member of the film’s production team. The film’s message of the importance of family and the power of the human spirit resonated with audiences and it was a privilege to be a part of bringing that message to life on screen.
