I LIKE MOVIES

2022 / 99 min / color

The protagonist of Chandler Levack’s debut feature is a teenager named Lawrence. He’s not very social — he’d be happy to spend his free time alone, just watching one film after another. The reality he sees on-screen is the only place where he actually feels safe. Movies are his great passion and the place where he sees himself heading: his dream is to study film at NYU. To take care of finances, Lawrence gets a job at a local video store where he can spend hours and hours watching the films he loves, but he also has to interact with people. His one true friend becomes aware of the growing problem, especially when their relationship becomes increasingly strained. Lawrence’s obsession with film is largely an escape from reality, and it’s getting out of hand. Levack portrays his protagonist with great affection: even though Lawrence can sometimes be annoying, in the long run you end up rooting for him. I Like Movies is a funny and empathetic coming-of-age story, but also a nostalgic tribute to the videotape era — a much simpler time.

• Calgary IFF – Emerging Canadian Artist (Chandler Levack)