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Hi there,

The year’s winding down, and while the days are getting shorter, my gratitude list keeps getting longer.

It’s funny how life works, isn’t it? Sometimes, the best things sneak up on you — like a crowdfunding contribution, or a new movie project out of the blue, or even the perfect setup/shot you weren’t sure would work out, or a quiet moment that reminds you why you started this wild filmmaking journey in the first place.

So, here I am, reflecting on 2024, and I wanted to share what I’m thankful for.

First, there’s my family. Helena, my co-founder, collaborator and wife, who is a creative and logistical force on set. My family keeps me grounded, while our cats remind me that even when things get messy (like a tipped-over porcelain flower pot), there’s always a reason to laugh.

I’m grateful for the projects, too. Some big, like The Quiet Canadians, where every step forward feels like laying the groundwork for something truly special. Big projects take time to marinate, and every time I think we are stalled, I look back and realize how far we have come. Others smaller in scope but not in creative collaboration, like two short films we wrapped this year — proof that even when the budgets and shooting schedules are tight, the partnerships and opportunities to make something fun and worthwhile don't diminish.

It can be so easy to compare ourselves to others and let that diminish our effort and progress. But I'm thankful that I've been able to connect with filmmakers who are making it happen out there, and learn from them, and to be able to offer something back.

Technology deserves a shoutout. Sure, AI can be polarizing, but I’ve leaned into it this year, and it’s made my life so much easier. The important thing I've learned about AI is that it doesn't replace real human connection. It can help with scheduling and planning out strategy, and the market research is definitely useful. It can even help brainstorm ideas and inspire concept art to help tell the story of our movie projects, we are all still, as creative artists and filmmakers, a central brain to what matters. None of the movies I have been involved with would be as good without passionate Directors, Writers, Producers, Cast and Crew helping make them happen. I'm not naive enough to think there are some real changes and inherent problems that AI has created for us, but I'm one for seeing how this tool can be useful to us, especially independent creators and artists. Honestly, I have no desire to see an AI generated movie, but I am interested in seeing how AI can make the less creative aspects of filmmaking a little easier.

Then there’s you. This little newsletter started as an idea — a way to connect with other filmmakers who, like me, are figuring it out as they go. Every reply, question, and story you share reminds me that this isn’t just me talking into the void; it’s a conversation.

But honestly, what I’m most grateful for are the surprises.

The filmmaker who DM’d me with a problem I’d faced myself a decade ago, sparking a great collaboration.

The projects that have come out of nowhere, and are setting 2025 up to be really amazing.

The crew that reminded me what a privilege it is to create something together, no matter how chaotic the set might be.

And this little ritual of writing to you every week — it’s become one of my favourite parts of my journey. Sharing thoughts, lessons learned (sometimes the hard way), and a few laughs along the way has made me feel part of a larger community.

So thank you. For reading, for replying, for cheering me on when the challenges feel bigger than the wins. And sharing your own struggles and successes. You remind me why I love what I do.

Here’s to another year of dreaming big, creating boldly, and figuring it out one scene at a time.

Happy holidays and all the best,

Anthony (He/Him)

P.S. Love these emails? Holiday Starbucks is still the best coffee ;)... Of course, no obligation, but if you're feeling giving, buy me a coffee to say "thanks"!

P.P.S. If you enjoy the content and would like to support my work, you can support the development of The Quiet Canadians:

👉 Support the Film Here​

Or, if you're a U.S. taxpayer, you can donate and receive a charitable tax deduction through our partnership with From the Heart Productions:

👉 Support the Film Here​

Every contribution helps us create this film and continue to share free resources with filmmakers like you.

Ways to Work With Me

1. ​Monthly Coaching: To help you get unstuck in a script, your marketing plan or movie launch, etc.
2. ​Consultation Calls: Great for Pitch Deck reviews, script discussions, pep talks.
3. ​"Scratch to Screen": A guided 52 week email and live coaching course.
4. Budget and Scheduling: Telefilm is opening up applications for funding! If you want to apply, or pitch your script or film idea to producers and investors, you need a tailored budget and schedule. Reply to this email if you'd like this service.

Watch and Support My Previous Work

"13 Miles" a Telefilm grant recipient, is now available to watch!

Upcoming Projects

"The Quiet Canadians", a feature movie about skilled Canadian operatives who are trained in the elimination of local and foreign targets, is in development. Click here for more information​

"Xing'er: Origins", a feature film about a family's fight for survival against a deadly sect of assassins, is in development. Click here to find out more.​

Pickled Rabbit Short Film - Sharon makes a desperate attempt to earn her dying mom's love. There's a cult, a foreign god... and maybe a monster transformation. We're entering our festival run for 2025. Click here to find out more.​

Unfrayed, A Western Short Film -A bloodied Mei stumbles into Betty's campfire and discovers not only sanctuary but also, an ally. We are in Post Production on this movie and hope to have it completed for 2025. Click here to find out more.​
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