The Bearded Girl | Interview with Jody Wilson and Anwen O’Driscoll

A Mary Can Dream | Interview with Shin-Fei Chen

In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with filmmaker Shin-Fei Chen to discuss her short film, A Mary Can Dream. As the film’s writer, director, and star, Chen shares the inspiration behind the project, the creative journey of bringing Mary’s story to life, and the themes that shaped the film’s emotional core. We explore her transition from acting to directing, the challenges and rewards of independent filmmaking, and her passion for telling authentic stories that resonate across cultures. Whether you’re a filmmaker, film lover, or simply interested in the creative process, this conversation offers an insightful look into the making of A Mary Can Dream and the artist behind it. About Shin-Fei Chen Shin-Fei Chen is a Taiwanese-born actress, writer, producer, and filmmaker whose work spans film, television, and digital media. She is known for her performances in projects including The Son, Doctor Who, and the short film A Mary Can Dream, which she also wrote and directed. Beyond acting, Chen has built a diverse creative career as a writer and producer, creating and developing stories that highlight underrepresented voices and cross-cultural experiences. Her work reflects a commitment to character-driven storytelling and authentic human connection.

County Blooms | Interview with Jen Pogue and Navin Ramaswaran

This week on 1st on Film, we sit down with the creative minds behind County Blooms, the flower-powered Canadian lifestyle series celebrating growers, designers, and floral creatives across Ontario and Québec. Host and creator Jen Pogue and filmmaker Navin Ramaswaran join us to talk about building the series, capturing the beauty of floral culture on screen, and the passion behind telling stories rooted in creativity, community, and nature. From behind-the-scenes production stories to the growing success of the series, this conversation blooms with insight, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart. About Jen Pogue Jen Pogue is a Canadian award-winning host, creator, actor, producer, and writer best known as the creator and host of County Blooms. She won the 2024 Canadian Screen Award for Best Host, Web Program or Series for her work on the show. Beyond County Blooms, Pogue has appeared in productions including Ghostwriter, I Woke Up a Vampire, Hudson & Rex, and Endlings, while also producing independent Canadian film and television projects through FILMCOOP INC About Navin Ramaswaran Navin Ramaswaran is a Canadian filmmaker and cinematographer known for his work across independent film and television. On County Blooms: A Flower-Powered Adventure, he served in directing and cinematography roles, helping shape the show’s vibrant visual style and intimate storytelling approach. His work focuses on visually driven narratives that spotlight culture, creativity, and human connection.

County Blooms | Shenanigans Toronto Red Carpet

At the red carpet event for Shenanigans Toronto, we caught up with creator and host Jen Pogue for County Bloooms alongside directors Michelle Jedrzejewski and Navin Ramaswaran to talk about bringing the project to life. From the inspiration behind the series to the creative process and what audiences can expect, the trio shared insights into the heart, vision, and collaboration that shaped County Blooms. Jen Pogue is a Canadian award-winning host, creator, actor, producer, and writer best known as the creator and host of County Blooms. A passionate advocate for floral design and storytelling, Jen has worked across film, television, and digital media, with credits including Ghostwriter, I Woke Up a Vampire, and Hudson & Rex. She won the 2024 Canadian Screen Award for Best Host of a Web Program or Series for County Blooms. Michelle Jedrzejewski is a Canadian writer, story producer, and director known for her work on County Blooms and County Blooms: A Flower-Powered Adventure. Michelle has contributed as both a writer and director on the series, helping shape its heartfelt storytelling and creative vision through a mix of lifestyle programming and documentary-style filmmaking. Navin Ramaswaran is a Canadian filmmaker, director, and cinematographer recognized for his visual storytelling work across film and television. On County Blooms: A Flower-Powered Adventure, Navin served as both director and director of photography, bringing the series’ vibrant floral landscapes and intimate creative moments to life on screen.

Our Hero, Balthazar | Interview with Erin DeWitt and Nate DeYoung

This week on 1st on Film, we sit down with editors Erin DeWitt and Nate DeYoung to discuss their work on Oscar Boyson’s provocative dark comedy-drama Our Hero, Balthazar. The pair break down their collaborative editing process, balancing the film’s sharp tonal shifts between satire and emotional realism, and shaping two contrasting perspectives into one cohesive story. We also dive into their creative partnership with Boyson, the challenges of pacing character-driven tension, and how the film’s themes of online culture and modern alienation informed the final cut. A fascinating conversation about storytelling, rhythm, and finding humanity inside chaos.

A Guest in My Country | Interview with Director John Gray

In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with writer-director John Gray to discuss his powerful short film A Guest in My Country. Gray shares the inspiration behind the story, the themes of identity and belonging woven throughout the film, and the creative process of bringing such an emotional and timely project to life. We also talk about the challenges of independent filmmaking, storytelling through a deeply human lens, and what he hopes audiences take away from the experience. John Gray is an award-winning writer, director, and producer known for his work across film and television. He is the creator of the long-running hit series Ghost Whisperer and has written and directed numerous acclaimed projects throughout his career. With a storytelling style that often explores human connection, spirituality, and emotional truth, Gray has built a reputation for creating thoughtful and compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. A Guest in My Country continues that tradition, offering a moving and timely reflection on identity, compassion, and belonging.