The Animal Project

I was lucky enough to see the World Premier of "The Animal Project" last night at the Toronto International Film Festival and I loved it. It was beautifully written, directed and acted. Ingrid Veninger at her finest. The film was honest, heart breaking and funny. Personally, I found the relationship between Leo (Aaron Poole) and Sam (Jacob Switzer) to be real and moving. Also really fascinating was the Q & A after the film and getting to hear about Ingrid Veninger's unconventional creative process. Her purity of intent really shines through in this project and in the end she has created a film with heart and soul.

This will so just so so so lovely. I laughed, I cried, sometimes during the same scene. The beauty of the ensemble cast is that most everyone will find someone who they can relate to. All the different "animals" have their own set of unique problems and obstacles that they need to overcome. I was concerned that the scenes in costume would be a drag because you literally can't see any of the actors' faces, but I was completely wrong. The scenes in the mascot costumes were actually some of the funniest and most heartwarming in the film.

I couldn't recommend this film more. It's an hour and a half of your life very very well spent.

Another wonderful, heartfelt piece of work from a true maverick independent filmmaker.

Great performances across the board, and lots of sweet surprises throughout.

I was particularly effected by young Jacob Switzer's performance as Sam, and his relationship with his father (played by Aaron Poole) felt totally genuine.

I appreciate how the filmmaker leaves just enough questions unanswered to keep the audience engaged without leaving everyone feeling lost.

For my money, there just aren't enough films being made nowadays with this kind of spirit.

The Animal Project is a captivating Film! It features an endearing and adventurous cast. It is lovingly conceived and realized. Veninger has put some beautiful creatures, both costumed and otherwise on screen. The story on the surface is one of a group of blocked actors looking for ways to break through their comfort levels and truly take risks. At its core the film portrays a father and son relationship that is quite raw and refreshing in its candour. It also portrays some fascinating non-conventional romantic entanglements. As well, it shows off a slice of Toronto beautifully preserved from the cold encroachment of the modern glass tower so pervasive in our city. By so doing it creates a nostalgic feel. A view of the city that is more obscured with each new development. The film inspired me to dream of doing something more, something beyond my comfort zone, something to remind me I am alive today! A wonderful film that touched my heart. Thank you!

What an extraordinarily fun, poignant and thoughtful work of art. Beautiful writing, photography, editing, sound design, music and (of course) costumes. Also, best ensemble cast in any English Canadian film, ever. Veninger is continuing to grow and fulfill her potential as an indie filmmaker by leaps and bounds on every project. Ironically, with this film she does it by staying close to home and telling a story about people in the city she knows best. Which leads to one of the most compellingly human depictions I think has been made of Toronto – in any art form. Anybody would be lucky to make a film like this once in their career... but I wouldn't be surprised if Veninger and her collaborators on this film end up making it a habit.

A film to watch, and watch again.