With Tiff -Première from Mile End Kicks, Chandler Levack is more than just famous

Montreal is often seen as a place where Anglo Canadians go to try out their broken French and let their creative juices flow freely. This sentiment is echoed in Chandler Levack’s new ROM-COM, Mile End Kicks, which is set to have its world premiere on the opening night of the Toronto International Film Festival.

The film follows Grace Pine, a 24-year-old music critic from Toronto who relocates to Montreal in 2011 to write a book about Alanis Morissette’s seminal album, Jagged Little Pill. Grace’s move is prompted by a desire for a fresh start after leaving Merge Weekly, an alt-weekly magazine, where she was underappreciated by her slimy editor. As she embarks on this new chapter in her life, Grace is faced with a series of challenges, including writer’s block, a complicated love triangle, and the inevitable blow to her ego.

Immersed in Montreal’s vibrant music scene, Grace finds herself at a loft concert that feels more awkward than cool. It is here that she meets Bone Patrol, a local band led by Chief Chevy and guitarist Archie. Grace is drawn to Chevy, despite the red flags, as she navigates the ups and downs of her new life in Montreal.

Levack, who drew inspiration from her own experiences, explores themes of fear, vulnerability, and the pursuit of artistic dreams in Mile End Kicks. The film delves into the struggles of aspiring artists and the challenges they face in pursuing their passions.

Barbie Ferreira delivers a standout performance as Grace, capturing the character’s complexity and inner turmoil with nuance. Levack’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the production design, which authentically recreates the early 2010s setting of the film.

Mile End Kicks is not just a love letter to Montreal’s music scene, but also a reflection on the journey of self-discovery and growth. As Levack gears up for the film’s premiere at TIFF, she reflects on her evolving career as a filmmaker and her aspirations for the future.

With Mile End Kicks, Levack establishes herself as a rising talent in Canadian cinema, blending personal storytelling with cinematic flair. The film promises to be a poignant and relatable exploration of love, loss, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment.

Mile End Kicks screens at TIFF on September 4, 9, and 13. Don’t miss this heartfelt and captivating film that showcases the talent and vision of Chandler Levack.