This morning I met up with my friend Necole and her three boys Jordan, Tyson, and Joshua, at the Cardel Theatre. We were all anticipating the Reel Fun Film Festival, and specifically the Family Day events. This unique film festival, Western Canada’s only family film festival, kicked off today and runs until the 22nd.

When we arrived, the lobby and theatre were packed with people. While I managed to snap a few photos at the industry partner booths, Necole grabbed some seats for the 11:30am screenings.

First up were two 5-minute animated shorts from the series Jungle Beat. The series is from South Africa, and the crowd of young children and their parents were entertained by the humorous themes, and the lovable animated animals. These were easily Joshua’s favorites, and the turtle themed film had everyone laughing.

After the animated shorts, they screened Lost in the Woods, a story based on a photographic book by Carl R. Sams and Jean Stoick. The film was good, although some of the boys thought it was a little too long. It had a great story about spring and the experiences individual animals go through as they adapt to their changing environment.

The industry booths were also something we had a chance to experience.

First up was Dean Harper, with his band of reptile performers:

Flo Krisko and her movie dog performers were also there. When I met up with the pups, they weren’t doing a lot of action scenes but they were commanding a lot of attention:

As well, Regan Enderl and a crew of camera operators assisted the young festival attendees as they were allowed to experience what it’s like to sit behind the camera, and be a part of a film set:

The Director’s Cut was also there assisting with claymation movies, and allowing the children to have a firsthand look at the art  of claymation filmmaking:

We had an excellent morning filled with laughs and new experiences, and it was a great opportunity for children to interact with the film industry and films they could appreciate.

For all the dates of this week’s screenings, please go to:

http://www.reelfunfilmfest.com/2010/