In Montreal, a young woman wearing a Spin magazine T-shirt gazes angrily at her 2011 MacBook screen. This scene reminiscent of Chandler Levack’s own life is portrayed in the film “Mile End Kicks,” where she captures her transition from Toronto to Montreal’s burgeoning music landscape.
Levack’s directorial debut in 2022 with “I Like Movies,” featuring a teenager consumed by film fandom, opened doors for her subsequent works, including “Mile End Kicks” and the upcoming film “Roommates,” both set to premiere on April 17 in theaters and on Netflix.
Discussing her sudden success with CBC News, Levack expressed disbelief, feeling like she had entered an alternate reality beyond her expectations.
“Mile End Kicks,” loosely inspired by Levack’s experiences in Montreal during the summer of 2011, follows Grace (played by Barbie Ferreira from “Euphoria”), an aspiring music writer immersing herself in the Mile End neighborhood’s vibrant music scene.
Levack reminisces about Montreal’s music explosion in 2011, witnessing the rise of iconic artists like Grimes and Mac DeMarco, which left her awestruck to be a part of that culture.
Inspired by the film “Almost Famous,” Levack embarked on her journey in the industry, eventually delving into writing for Spin and The Village Voice. “Mile End Kicks” aims to offer a unique perspective often absent in music-themed films, portraying the challenges faced by a young woman navigating a male-dominated music environment.
The film also pays tribute to Canadian music icon Alanis Morissette, highlighting her resilience in reclaiming her narrative in the face of industry sexism. Levack’s collaboration with the lead actress, Barbie Ferreira, involved guiding her into character, emphasizing the portrayal of authenticity and vulnerability.
Despite the overwhelming response to her films, Levack’s schedule remains packed as she balances the release of “Roommates,” her third feature film. The rapid succession of her projects reflects a whirlwind journey, contrasting with the lengthy process of creating “I Like Movies.”
Levack’s unexpected opportunity to direct “Roommates,” a comedy produced by Adam Sandler and featuring his daughter Sadie, added another dimension to her burgeoning career. Reflecting on her time spent with the Sandler family, Levack acknowledges Sandler’s commitment to showcasing diverse narratives, particularly through collaborations with female directors.
Transitioning from Toronto to Los Angeles, Levack embraces the thriving Canadian film scene, expressing enthusiasm for the industry’s current momentum and the growing interest in Canadian cinema.
Amidst the flourishing Canadian film landscape, Levack’s works alongside other notable Canadian productions signify a significant year for Canadian culture, despite external challenges.
