Project #1
Jailbird
Doug, played by Tyler Duffy
Jailbird follows the story of Doug, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison without the chance of parole for something he never meant to do. Upon his release, Doug soon realizes that the world he had left behind 20 years ago is no more, literally and metaphorically. The world has changed… drastically, and so did everyone in it! Soon Doug realizes that the family he left behind is no more. He finds it hard to fit in to his community.
With all hopes lost, Doug decides that he is better off in jail rather than in a world unknown; with no skills, no money, and no one to love. Heartbroken and nothing but remnants of the past as memories, Doug allows himself to be in trouble with the law yet again, hoping to return to the life he is used to… a life in a small cell.
It all began in one of my criminology classes during my university degree. My professor was talking about how inmates are often sent out of jail with little to no life skills, little money, and little hope. After spending 10 or 20 or 30 years of being locked up inside a small room, these individuals find it challenging to reintegrate back into society. They feel alien to the world that they left behind. This is what inspired me to write and direct Jailbird. Although this isn’t my first writing venture, this is my first directorial effort. I have learned a ton working on this project. It wouldn’t have been possible without the immense support from family, friends, Preejo (Dir. of Photography), and Mithun Davis (camera) and the huge effort and support from the cast and crew members who worked on this project. This lead character pictured here is played by Tyler Duffy, Sudheesh Scaria plays leading supporting role along with Pete Klassen and Nikki Nash. Many others worked on this film notably; Hudsynn Grace Kennedy, Moira Anderson, Geordie Cheeseman & Kyssara Mueller.
This film was shot in and around the outskirts of Edmonton AB.