NORM UPDATE

This post is the long overdue update re NORM, our latest documentary. We have experienced some exciting developments since it's release

Last fall NORM premiered at the 28th Atlantic Film Festival, we had a great screening. Norm, his sister Karen, and her partner Claudy were in attendance, the theatre was packed. 

It was incredible, we won the "The Rex Tasker Award" for Best Atlantic  Documentary,  Rex is a friend of ours and he was at the screening, so not only was it an honour to be selected from so many good Atlantic Films but it was also nice to get an award that honoured him! Norm, the man, provided everybody with cheerful hugs and waves making the whole affair a very special experience for all.

The film then went on to screen at the Silver Wave Film Festival in Fredericton, New Brunswick where it won "Best Documentary of the Festival". What a surprise! Norm and Karen were raised in Fredericton, so it was nice that we got to celebrate this achievment in their home town. We also got to spend time with Norm's niece Lita Llewellyn and her parents Gary and Carol. 

Since then NORM has played at the St. John's International Women's Film Festival in Newfoundland and the Reel Femme Film Festival in Edmonton, Alberta.

Last Sunday, May 17th, we presented the film to the entire delegation of the Canadian Down Syndrome Society's National Conference. Norm was there along with his entire family. We were given a standing ovation and presented with the "Broadcast Media Award." This is awarded annually to a broadcaster or independent filmmaker who contributes to an increased awareness of individuals with Down syndrome. It was a real treat to be with all of these amazing people and their families.

This last Saturday night, May 23rd, we were at the Yorkton Film Festival in Saskatchewan, where we were awarded the "Golden Sheaf Award for Best Social/Political Documentary" and,  an award for "The Best of the Festival." We were thrilled! The Yorkton festival is North America's oldest film festival and is a lot of fun, we met some wonderful people there. The award, symbolizing a sheaf of wheat, weighs so much we were worried we might have to pay extra to get our baggage back to Nova Scotia.

In August, NORM travels to British Columbia, where folks will will have an opportunity to see the film at the 21st Annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival! Should be a blast. 

Congratulations and thanks to all who worked so hard to make NORM possible we appreciate your fine work. We also may be having another broadcast on CBC Newsworld's THE LENS this summer, so we will keep you informed!!