P.E.I.’s The Snake makes Canadian premiere at Atlantic International Film Festival
Jenna MacMillan’s feature directorial debut arrives at AIFF after its world premiere at SXSW, where Susan Kent won a Special Jury Award for Performance
Prince Edward Island filmmaker Jenna MacMillan’s feature directorial debut, The Snake, is making its Canadian premiere as the Atlantic Gala at the Atlantic International Film Festival in Halifax.
Written by and starring P.E.I. actor and writer Susan Kent, The Snake had its world premiere at SXSW in March, where Kent received the festival’s Special Jury Award for Performance.
The film is a darkly comedic drama about a woman who is newly evicted and single and trying to regain control of her life. SXSW’s official synopsis describes the central character as a “40 something wild child” whose collision with her mother leaves her newly evicted and involved with her best friend’s husband.
MacMillan’s debut was selected for SXSW’s Narrative Feature Competition. According to AIFF, it was also the first film from P.E.I. to premiere at the festival.
Kent’s SXSW award recognizes her performance as the film’s central character. The festival’s jury cited her portrayal of a woman trying to make better decisions after years of conflict with her mother and disappointing relationships.
The Snake is produced by P.E.I.-based Club Red Productions, with Melani Wood and Sharlene Kelly producing. The cast also includes Jonathan Torrens, Robin Duke, Emma Hunter, Dan Petronijevic, Jimbo, Kim Roberts, Kenny Robinson, and Jacqueline and Joyce Robbins.
For MacMillan, the film’s Canadian premiere brings her first feature back to Atlantic Canada after its international festival debut.
The film is part of the 46th Atlantic International Film Festival, which runs Sept. 16–23 in Halifax. This year’s festival includes 113 feature and short films, with programming at Cineplex Cinemas Park Lane.
The Atlantic Gala is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19, at 7 p.m. at Cineplex Cinemas Park Lane, followed by the Atlantic Gala Party at Stardust.
Prince Edward Island filmmaker Jenna MacMillan’s feature directorial debut, The Snake, is making its Canadian premiere as the Atlantic Gala at the Atlantic International Film Festival in Halifax.