WALK OFF THE EARTH AT BUD STAGE 2024, 11min., Canada
Directed by Mike Onley
A behind the scenes look at a day in the life of Canadian rockstars Walk Off The Earth at Budweiser Gardens the day of their annual performance. We explore why the home-town show is so special to the band and fans alike, and what goes in to creating a spectacular show.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
As a long time fan of the band I was excited to be invited to the show and I just wanted to capture the experience for everyone else to see.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It was a whirlwind - I captured the day primarily on a single handheld camera, and then supplemented with some additional archival and event footage - Honestly there wasn't much planning involved, it was run and gun but I think that adds to the charm and the "fly on the wall/sneak peak" feel.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Rock and Roll

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Not getting set on fire by the stage pyro

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It was nice to see that people were engaged and felt the energy that the piece was meant to convey

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I've always loved capturing the moment - I used to film (terribly uninteresting) videos of my friends hanging out, and doing silly things at parties when we were young, and that grew into a passion for documentary story telling.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
The blink 182 rock-umentaries.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
i think the audience feedback is a cool feature. I would have liked an email reminder about the festival screening as I completely missed it - largely my own fault.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
good

10. What is your favorite meal?
taco bell

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I work largely in commercial and agency production, but always eager to find time for passion projects like this.