Local Sci-Fi Film “Contamination” Launches at Landmark Cinemas

This weekend, local production company Brimstone Pictures will unveil its latest project, the action-packed sci-fi thriller titled Contamination, at Landmark Cinemas in Edmonton. The film features a group of mercenaries, sent by the CIA, who are tasked with investigating a mysterious research lab in the Alaskan wilderness. Local actors and actual military personnel play key roles in this ambitious project, which showcases both talent and technical expertise.

Behind the Scenes of “Contamination”

Filming took place in various locations across Alberta, including the University of Alberta, Fort Saskatchewan, and Elk Island, before the devastating fires last summer. Producer Preston Ewasiuk highlighted the timing, noting, “We filmed there about 10 days before the Jasper fires, so that’s probably the last footage that would have shown that location that way.” Ewasiuk also served as a drone operator, adding impressive aerial shots to the film’s dynamic action sequences.

Co-director and writer Neil Chase expressed his desire to create a film that diverged from typical Alberta productions. “When we were thinking of what should we do next, I wanted to make something fun with action, something with a military bent,” he said. Drawing inspiration from popular video games and classic action films, Chase aimed to expand his previous short films into a full-length feature.

The production utilized a range of military equipment, including a real plane and Humvees, contributing to the film’s authenticity. Chase emphasized the importance of having real military personnel involved, particularly Tom Sunderland, a recently retired major in the Canadian Forces, who plays the black ops operative, Wolf. The production even required special permission from the Minister of National Defence in Ottawa for Sunderland to appear in the film, marking a significant achievement for the filmmakers.

Unique Filming Locations and Challenges

Filming locations included ACI Labs near South Edmonton Common and the semi-secret catacombs beneath the University of Alberta. Ewasiuk described the experience of shooting underground, stating, “We filmed 50 feet underground at the U of A into areas we didn’t even know existed!” This collaborative environment extended to the university staff, who were eager to assist the production team with their vision.

The cast includes a range of local talent, such as Métis actor Brandon Houth and Ukrainian actor Constantine Grechko, who brings humor to his role as a prisoner. While some scenes are intense, Chase noted that the filmmakers aimed for a balanced approach to gore, drawing inspiration from shows like The X-Files. “We had to consider how much blood we could actually use in each location,” he explained, with budget constraints also influencing the decisions.

With a production budget of $300,000 funded by private investors and an Alberta tax credit, the team achieved impressive results, showcasing their passion for filmmaking. “We love big boy toys!” said Ewasiuk, referring to the equipment and vehicles used in the film.

Contamination will have six screenings this weekend at Landmark Cinemas, starting at 16:35 on Friday. The film will also screen in Calgary, Toronto, Kingston, and Ottawa in the following weeks, with the filmmakers in attendance to engage with audiences. Chase expressed a desire to continue producing action films that stand out in Alberta’s cinematic landscape. “We’d love to bring more action movies, oriented towards genre,” he stated. “Because, boy are they fun to make!”

For those interested in catching the film, screenings are scheduled for 16:35 on Friday, 13:45 on Saturday, and 16:35 and 19:15 on Sunday.