By Joanne Rodgers, Bruce Peninsula Press
A group of eight amateur filmmakers screened their first film, The Sacred Scrolls, on 8 February at Bethel Church in Lion’s Head.
Circa 1789, a swashbuckling adventure, a treasure hunt, a sacred mission to locate hidden scrolls, heroes and a villain, pistols, sword fights and explosions, all hallmarks of a Hollywood blockbuster. This film, from Lifeline Productions, is the creative effort of eight young filmmakers between the ages of 14 to 19 years old. Starting production a year ago, in February 2024, the local teenagers talked about a possible story and the script came together from there.
The cast and crew took on multiple roles in the production of this film. Zane Shantz, Luke Belanger, Roman Shantz, Brooke Shantz, Ruby Belanger and Gloria Shantz acted in the movie, with Peter Rodgers making a cameo appearance. Luke and Zane were co-directors.
Zane was lead editor for this project. Owen was the camera man and in charge of lighting. Brooke. Ruby and Gloria worked on props and costumes. Roman and Peter were handymen on the crew and Peter also handled security.
The production team are all self taught, the teenagers say the project was a lot of fun and a good learning experience. There were also original compositions and all of the soundtrack was performed by the actors. Filming took place last summer and during available free time, editing took several months: one hour of editing for every minute of filming with over 60 hours of filming.
Local scenery, handcrafted props, real blood and bruises
Using the stunning landscapes of the Bruce as a backdrop, the filming was done on private properties and at well-known landmarks such as St. Margaret’s Chapel in Cape Chin, Lion’s Head Lookout, Bruce Caves and at Sauble Beach. The crew carefully picked the locations to fit the plot.
The filmmakers made the movie at a minimal cost, mostly gas money, many of the props were hand-crafted using materials from their parents’ garages, costumes were mostly sourced from their closets. If at times the blood and bruises on the actors looked realistic – they probably were – as these young actors honed their craft… especially in the sword fighting scenes.
Lifeline Productions
Photo: Actors Brooke Shantz as Elizabeth and Ruby Belanger as Katherine.
Photo: Actors Roman Shantz as Josiah and Luke Belanger as Nathaniel.
Photo: Filming on location at Bruce Caves.
Film receives standing ovation
The premiere was billed as a formal affair; many who came were thrilled with the opportunity to wear formal attire. One patron said “when else is there an opportunity to dress-up here on the Bruce”. Popcorn and homemade desserts were available.
The cast and crew received a standing ovation at the end of the movie.
Comments from movie goers included “good family movie”; “showcases the talent and creativity of young people on the Bruce”; “happy that the film turned out so well” and “well deserving of praise”.
Both the camera work and editing also received many compliments, especially as the crew had no professional training. One viewer praised how well the sounds were synchronized with the sword play. Another moviegoer admired the CGI work with the ship and waves. The cinematography was described as beautifully done, with great shots of the various locations. Another said even the poster was so professional.
Overall, the movie goers say the film was very impressive, amazing to see how much work went into the project, a testament of the dedication and commitment of these young filmmakers.
If you missed the premiere and are looking for a fun, lighthearted movie for all ages, be sure to check out the movie at Lifeline Productions youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LifelineProductions24
