Play With Fire

'Play with Fire' follows the unsettling life of 28-year old Christian. Having never left his small town, he wastes his days with meaningless activities and selling drugs to get by. His girlfriend, Melody, encourages him to come to the city with her in order to start over with a clean slate. Just as she leaves, his longtime friend Joel comes back to town bringing with him a risky plan that will help him fatten his wallet. All Joel needs is Christian's help. This is where a story of twisted loyalty, love and loss begins.

The beauty and grit of the small town Trail, B.C inspired filmmaker Soren Johnstone to tell this tale. In 2006 he wrote an untitled screenplay with the intention of producing a low-budget film. Initially he sought investors to help make his vision a reality. After failing to find financing he decided to team up with his friend and collaborator, Michael Babiarz, setting out on a mission to create his film with minimal gear and budget.

In May of 2007 shooting began with local people who possessed no prior acting experience, and carried through until July of 2008. The film became an obsession for the filmmakers who were determined to tell the story no matter how long it took, no matter the obstacle; nothing could derail this massive undertaking.

After shooting wrapped the post production continued for 9 months. In June 2009 the film premiered in Toronto at an international film festival to wide acclaim, taking home "Best Cinematography". Relying heavily on the locations of the town, the lens captured something that was not only raw and visceral, but something beautiful; something that transcended its location and touched the audience. "Play with Fire" is the heartbeat of many towns.