Rory Kennedy Boosts Manitoba Film Scene with New Training Program

Acclaimed documentary filmmaker Rory Kennedy is set to enhance Manitoba’s film industry through her participation in a new training initiative aimed at diversifying the local creative sector. Kennedy visited Churchill this past Saturday as part of the Northern and Diverse Creators Program, which is designed to provide free filmmaking master classes to community members throughout the province.

During her visit, Kennedy, the youngest daughter of Ethel and Robert F. Kennedy, engaged with local residents, discussing the intricacies of the film industry and the potential for future projects in the region. “I don’t quite know if I have a subject up here yet, but I am going to keep coming back,” she remarked when asked about the prospect of filming in Manitoba. “I want to go back and see those whales, so we’ll see,” she added, referencing the prime whale-watching season in Hudson’s Bay.

The program, developed by Film Training Manitoba in collaboration with Doc Manitoba, seeks to promote inclusivity by offering specialized sessions tailored for underrepresented groups, including Black, Ukrainian, and LGBTTQ+ individuals. Participants are learning essential skills such as crafting film projects, securing funding, and marketing their works.

Kennedy described her time in Churchill as “magical,” highlighting experiences such as witnessing polar bears and the northern lights. She shared her enthusiasm for the local community, stating, “But I have to say, we went up there for the polar bears, but I think we’d go back for the people. They were just so warm and friendly and inviting.”

At the session, Kennedy encouraged attendees to embrace the storytelling potential of the area. “It’s an area and a region that’s quite storied and has a lot to share with us and the rest of the world,” she said. She emphasized the importance of training local talent for documentary projects, noting that international film crews often seek local expertise. “The more people who are trained to help and support, offers some really great opportunities for people up there,” Kennedy explained.

Adam Smoluk, executive director of Film Training Manitoba, shared his conversations with Churchill’s mayor about increasing community engagement in local productions. “He’s very much wanting to find ways that the town can be more connected,” Smoluk stated.

Kennedy, who first visited Manitoba several years ago with Film Training Manitoba, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to share stories that resonate with diverse audiences. “I love my films and the work I do, and it’s really an honour to bring those films and those stories to places that otherwise I wouldn’t necessarily visit,” she said.

On Sunday, Kennedy was scheduled to hold an informal discussion with Ukrainian refugees who survived the Russian invasion, organized by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Manitoba chapter. This initiative further exemplifies her commitment to connecting with communities through storytelling.

Sessions in the Northern and Diverse Creators Program have already taken place in Winnipeg, Brandon, and Churchill, with more events planned for Cranberry Portage, Flin Flon, and The Pas this week. As the program continues, it aims to empower local filmmakers and foster a more inclusive creative landscape in Manitoba.