Eye For An Eye has had quite a run so far.
The independent production placed amongst the top six projects in STORYHIVE’s Pilot Season, nabbing the production a $5,000 grant and a spot on Telus Optik’s VOD.
Then the short was selected to be part of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival as part of the Court Métrage; making its European debut in a private screening nestled in the Short Film Corner of the Palais.
Eye For An Eye also garnered world-wide distribution interest during its run at Cannes.
Set against a hostile political backdrop, the film speaks to the intimate relationships between people and the delicate balance of choice.
The film is a true ode to multiculturalism, both through the story and behind-the-scenes.
It aims to honour its inspiration with luscious imagery of Vancouver, and showcases the talent of Bangladeshi director Khijir Hayat Khan and lead actor Shaan Rahman.
It also features an original score composed by local musician Vytas Sinkevicius and music from Jimmy LeGuilloux, also from Kelowna.
“We’re in a unique position,” said Kelowna-raised writer and producer Karin Maxey.
“Our cast and crew are so diverse, and we have a strong female presence behind the camera.
“That, along with the subject matter; we were just hoping to make something that sparked discussion, and taking it all the way to Cannes—well that’s a dream come true.”
Maxey has wanted to be a writer her entire life, and fell in love with drama when she attended Mount Boucherie High School (back when she was still Karin Sinkevicius).
Taking an editorial turn, she interviewed the likes of Maggie Q and has written marketing campaigns for national companies such as Marble Slab Creamery and A&W.
She’s since found her way onto the Vancouver film scene—and back to Kelowna—and hopes to branch into directing one day.