Patrick McKenna

Reviews

Magnetosphere

Nicola Rose’s sophomore feature Magnetosphere reminded me of Nickelodeon programming I grew up with – family friendly fodder that used sitcom conventions as an entry way for outcasts to identify with off-beat humour and a unique perspective on life.  While the nostalgia is hard to shake, with this current collection of coming-of-age films aimed at pre-teens, Magnetosphere is in a league of its own. Maggie (played by newcomer Shayelin Martin of Wild Goat Surf) sees…

One-on-Ones

Wylie Writes’ One-On-One with Nicola Rose

Magnetosphere is a sophomore indie from filmmaker Nicola Rose and a standout flick for pre-teens. Pitching itself as a reliable coming-of-age story from a teenage wallflower, Rose uses specific experiences, such as viewing life through synesthesia, to identify with broader and universally relatable growing pains; all while issuing a warm and welcoming feeling for anyone watching her latest effort. I wanted to speak with Nicola Rose about making such an inviting film. From casting her ensemble…

Reviews

The Masked Saint

The Masked Saint has a premise you’d expect in a Saturday Night Live sketch: a former wrestler takes to preaching, but turns to the past when he realizes how the sport can help himself and his community.  It’s a near impossible sell despite being inspired by true events, but it’s a set-up that hooks curious audiences toward a satisfying film.