The Ballad of Sloth Shot, 20min., Canada
Directed by Simon Rasmussen
A sharp-shooting cowgirl must stop a time-travelling supervillain from destroying her town.

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Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I’ve always had a soft spot for westerns, but it was a TV show called
Buffalo Girls that hooked me. Instead of shootouts and train robberies, it
told the stories of historical figures like Calamity Jane and Annie Oakley
struggling to adapt as the Wild West they knew came to an end. The women
in Buffalo Girls were adventurous and fun, but also compassionate and
vulnerable. They felt like real people – which they were. I wanted to
create my own cowgirl with an authentic, independent spirit, set in a
modern context fused with a streak of sci-fi.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to
make this film?

From the first draft to final editing took almost five years, but the
initial concept dates back almost 30 years.

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

Action/adventure!

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

The biggest challenge was fitting the action and science-fiction elements
into a micro-budget, which wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity
and dedication of the volunteer cast and crew. Because of them, the story I
always wanted to tell has finally come to life, and I hope I have properly
expressed my deep gratitude to each of them.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking
about your film in the feedback video?

I was very pleased with how much they enjoyed it! It meant a lot to have
the quality of the writing recognized.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

Back in high school, while my friends found jobs, went on dates, and
learned important social skills, I spent every free minute making home
movies that transformed forests, ponds and empty garages into fantastical
backdrops for grand science fiction adventures. After a 20+ year break for
career and family, I rediscovered my love of filmmaking and set to work on
this movie.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

I’ve always been a big fan of Star Trek, so probably one of those, but the
non-Trek film I’ve seen the most is Baraka. If you ever get a chance to
watch it in a theatre, go!

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 hope the festival experience provides me with opportunities to network
with industry-savvy producers. The opportunity to make my next film with
that kind of support would be amazing.

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

No complaints! It’s easy to use and seems very secure.

10. What is your favorite meal?

I’ve always been partial to a good lasagna.

11. What is next for you? A new film?

Yes! I have several ideas in the works, but I’m very excited to build on
what I’ve learned from this filmmaking experience. Stay tuned!