1st on Film

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.

Eddie Short Film | Interview with Laurel Brady

On this episode of 1st on Film, we hit the red carpet at Shenanigans Toronto, to speak with writer/director Laurel Brady about her short film Eddie. Laurel discusses the inspiration behind the film, and the creative process behind the project, Laurel Brady is a filmmaker and writer/director whose work focuses on character-driven storytelling and emotionally grounded narratives. Through her films, she explores human connection, identity, and personal growth, bringing a thoughtful and authentic voice to independent cinema. Eddie is a short film that follows an emotionally layered journey of self-discovery and connection, exploring themes of vulnerability, relationships, and the complexities of everyday life. With an intimate storytelling approach and strong performances, the film offers a heartfelt look at the moments that shape us.

American Muscle | Interview with Joel Veach and Liana Wright-Mark

On this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with writer-director Joel Veach and actress Liana Wright-Mark to discuss their gritty new indie thriller American Muscle. Veach opens up about crafting the film’s tense neo-noir atmosphere, balancing emotional family drama with crime-thriller intensity, and making his feature directorial debut. Wright-Mark shares insight into building her complex character Maggie, collaborating with the cast, and bringing emotional depth to a story filled with desperation, violence, and buried secrets. Joel Veach is an American writer, director, and producer best known for the indie crime thriller American Muscle, which marks his feature directorial debut. In addition to directing the film, Veach also wrote and produced the project, showcasing his signature character-driven storytelling and gritty neo-noir style. Prior to American Muscle, he wrote the psychological thriller Old Man (2022), directed by Lucky McKee and starring Stephen Lang. Veach has also directed short films, including Guys with Guns, and continues to develop bold independent genre projects. Liana Wright-Mark is a New York and Los Angeles–based actress, writer, musician, and model whose work spans film, television, and theater. She stars as Maggie in Joel Veach’s thriller American Muscle. Wright-Mark previously appeared in Rian Johnson’s Poker Face, Hulu’s Old Man alongside Stephen Lang, and Gary Ross’ Ocean’s 8. A graduate of Pace University’s Musical Theater program, she has also written and produced original stage work, including the award-winning musical Elise. Beyond acting, Wright-Mark has worked extensively in modeling and music, building a diverse creative career across multiple artistic mediums.