Barbie Ferreira stars in new indie rom-com ‘Mile End Kicks’
A fresh face in Montreal’s vibrant music scene
Barbie Ferreira, known for her breakout role in “Euphoria,” is set to lead the cast of the indie rom-com “Mile End Kicks”. This film, directed by Chandler Levack, promises to be a delightful exploration of Montreal’s eclectic music scene. Joining Ferreira are Devon Bostick (“Oppenheimer”), Stanley Simons (“The Iron Claw”), and Juliette Gariépy (“Red Rooms”).
Production and financing
The film is currently in production in Montreal, with XYZ Films financing through its New Visions initiative. This project is a collaboration between Banner House Productions, Zapruder Films, and Rhombus Media. The involvement of these production houses ensures a high-quality cinematic experience.
A summer of music and romance
Set in the summer of 2011, “Mile End Kicks” follows Grace Pine (Ferreira), a 24-year-old music critic who relocates to Montreal with the ambition of writing a book about Alanis Morissette’s iconic album, “Jagged Little Pill.” However, her plans take an unexpected turn when she becomes romantically entangled with two members of a struggling indie rock band and decides to become their publicist.
This narrative promises to capture the essence of Montreal’s Mile End music scene, which has given rise to artists like Mac DeMarco, Arcade Fire, and Grimes. The film delves into themes of romantic obsession and the journey of a young writer finding her voice.
A director’s personal touch
Chandler Levack, whose debut feature ”I Like Movies” premiered at Toronto in 2023 and won the Independent Spirit Award at Santa Barbara, brings a personal touch to the script. Drawing from her own experiences as a young female music critic, Levack aims to balance humor, pathos, and style in a way that resonates with audiences.
The production team
“Mile End Kicks” boasts an impressive production team. Matthew Miller (“BlackBerry”) and Pat Kiely (“Three Night Stand”) are producing, with a host of executive producers including Barbie Ferreira herself. The film is produced with the participation of Telefilm Canada and SODEC, ensuring strong support from Canadian film institutions. Elevation Pictures will handle distribution in Canada, with Entract Films releasing in Québec. XYZ Films is managing worldwide sales outside of Canada.
Capturing the essence of young adulthood
Todd Brown from XYZ Films praises Levack’s ability to capture the anxiety of young adulthood, comparing “Mile End Kicks” to timeless classics like “Reality Bites” and “Almost Famous.” The film promises to be charming, truthful, and funny, making it a must-watch for fans of indie cinema.
Meet the cast and crew
- Barbie Ferreira is represented by Aperture Talent, Authentic Talent and Literary Management, Highlight PR, and Felker Toczek Suddleson McGinnis Ryan LLP.
- Devon Bostick is represented by Gersh, Principal Entertainment, Noble Caplan Abrams, and Myman Greenspan Fox Rosenberg Mobasser Younger & Light.
- Stanley Simons is represented by Gersh and M88.
- Juliette Gariépy is represented by Agence La Suite.
- Chandler Levack is represented by WME and Artists First.
Dive deeper into the world of ‘Mile End Kicks’
For those eager to get a taste of the film, check out the Mile End Kicks trailer. This sneak peek offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of Montreal’s music scene and the romantic entanglements that drive the story.
Reflecting on the impact of music and film
As a cinema and music enthusiast, “Mile End Kicks” resonates deeply. The film’s exploration of the Mile End music scene is a nostalgic trip for anyone who has ever been captivated by the raw energy of indie rock. The characters’ struggles and triumphs mirror the real-life challenges faced by many young artists and critics. This film is not just a rom-com; it’s a love letter to the transformative power of music and the journey of self-discovery.
Final thoughts
“Mile End Kicks” is shaping up to be a standout indie film, blending humor, romance, and the vibrant backdrop of Montreal’s music scene. With a talented cast and a director who brings personal experience to the story, this film is poised to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide. Keep an eye out for its release and immerse yourself in the world of Grace Pine and the Mile End music scene.