In Montreal, a young woman wearing a Spin magazine T-shirt is staring intensely at the blank screen of her 2011 MacBook. This scene reminiscent of director Chandler Levack’s life is portrayed in the film “Mile End Kicks,” where she depicts her transition from a film and music critic in Toronto to the vibrant music scene of Montreal.
Levack’s initial success with her debut film “I Like Movies” in 2022 paved the way for her subsequent projects. Her latest works, “Mile End Kicks” and “Roommates,” are set to premiere on April 17 in theaters and on Netflix, respectively.
Reflecting on her time in Montreal in the summer of 2011, Levack found inspiration in the city’s burgeoning music scene. “Mile End Kicks” loosely mirrors her experiences, following a character named Grace, played by Barbie Ferreira, as she navigates the Mile End neighborhood.
The film captures a unique perspective often absent in music scene narratives – that of a young woman. Levack’s encounters in the male-dominated rock-and-roll environment influenced her storytelling, highlighting the challenges faced by women in such spaces.
“Mile End Kicks” also pays homage to Canadian icon Alanis Morissette, whose journey in reclaiming her narrative resonated with Levack. The film blends personal experiences with musical influences, creating a narrative that connects with audiences on a deeper level.
As Levack juggles the release of “Roommates,” her third film, she reflects on the whirlwind nature of her career progression. From the challenges of post-production to directing a big studio comedy like “Roommates,” Levack’s journey showcases the resilience and creativity of female filmmakers in the industry.
Despite the hectic schedule, Levack remains committed to telling authentic stories and pushing boundaries in Canadian cinema. As she embraces her newfound success and navigates the film industry’s landscape, Levack’s dedication to storytelling and representation shines through in her work.
