This week we are highlighting one of CSIF’s awesome board members! Rae Farrer’s experience in the Calgary film scene spans over 15 years where she has enjoyed opportunities to act in film, TV, commercials, and theatre. Always a creative at heart, when she’s in between roles she’s immersing herself in the filmmaking process through scriptwriting and producing. We had the opportunity to chat with Rae about all things film!

CSIF: Tell us about yourself; what do you do in the film industry?

RAE FARRER: I’ve done many things since I started working in the film industry in 2004 including writing, producing, directing, and acting. I gravitate towards the creative stuff–writing and acting. Acting is, and always will be, my number one love.

CSIF: How did you get started in filmmaking? Why did you decide to become a filmmaker?

RF: I got started in filmmaking after I moved to Calgary and did the Master Class at Company of Rogues Actors’ Studio, where I met a ton of amazing people that continue to inspire me in the Canadian film industry today.  I was already into film, from the performance side of things, but as an artist and a dreamer, the more I immersed myself into film-related art forms, the more I was moved to start telling my own stories.  It was really just an impulse that I couldn’t ignore.

CSIF: What movie(s) inspired you to become a filmmaker?

RF: There are many! Norman Jewison’s films are the ones that stand out to me as especially inspirational.

CSIF: What kinds of stories are you interested in telling?

RF: Traditionally it’s been drama but, lately, my writing has been leaning towards dark comedies and fantasy/drama like Pan’s Labyrinth.

CSIF: How did you first get involved with the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers?

RF: Through friends making independent film. If you’re involved in the film community in Calgary at all, it’s impossible to NOT meet someone who is, somehow,  involved with CSIF. There are a lot of great people here.

CSIF: Why did you decide to join the CSIF Board of Directors

RF: I’ve always loved volunteering in the arts. I used to spend a good chunk of my time volunteering for a non-film-related arts organization, which I loved, but as time goes on I’ve realized that, if I want to be successful in film, I have to immerse myself in film-related things. When the opportunity came up to volunteer for CSIF, it seemed like a natural choice.

CSIF: Tell us more about your experience on the CSIF Board of Directors.

RF: I came onto the board during a time when COVID restrictions were in place so things were pretty quiet with respect to responsibilities and activity. I didn’t even get to meet most of the other board members face-to-face for months! As I expected, I’m surrounded by committed, compassionate people and the experience has been great. 

CSIF: What advice do you have for other members of the film community?

RF: This industry can be one kick in the face after another BUT, if you keep going, you will find the moments that give you life. Do what you love and keep going. 

CSIF: What is the most embarrassing or funniest thing that has happened to you on set?

RF: Falling down the stairs in front of everyone on set ranks up there, but I would say that farting out loud during an emotional scene was both funny and embarrassing. My dad would have been proud.

CSIF: Tell us about your most recent project.

RF: I had the pleasure of working on Ties That Bind, a distinctly Alberta-made feature film with an all Albertan cast and crew. I’ve loved the script for a long time and am so grateful that James Reckseidler, a good friend and leader within CSIF, asked me to be a part of it. Not only did I get to act in my dream role,  I got to help cast the other principal roles. It was a privilege to see all of the hard work and talent that our Alberta actors put into their auditions.

CSIF: What is a film that you wish you made and why?

RF: Anything with John Candy in it because I love him.

Favourite movie(s): This is way too hard to answer.  Probably Silence of the Lambs, Moonstruck, Shawshank Redemption, Dogma, or The Lost Boys.

Favourite movie snack(s): Popcorn with a bag of Nibs mixed into it.

Instagram: @rae_farrer

IMDB: Rae Farrer