‘Poltergeist’ Child Star Heather O’Rourke Doc Leads Indiecan Cannes Market Slate (EXCLUSIVE)
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Veteran film producer and distribution executive Avi Federgreen’s Toronto-based sales company Indiecan Entertainment International has unveiled its Cannes Film Market slate.
Leading the slate is “She Was Here,” a documentary that delves into the life of beloved child actress Heather O’Rourke, famed for her role in the “Poltergeist” and known for the line “They’re here.” O’Rourke’s life was tragically cut short at the age of 12. Director Nick Bailey explores O’Rourke’s untold story, featuring interviews with her “Poltergeist” co-stars Craig T. Nelson and JoBeth Williams, as well as Heather’s mother and sister. The documentary is produced by Brian Pocrass, Reese Eveneshen and Federgreen.
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“Wild Goat Surf” is a Canadian, coming-of-age drama set in 2003 Penticton, British Columbia, following the adventures of 13-year-old Real “Goat” Anderson and her mother Jane as they navigate a summer of struggle and resilience. Living in an RV park by Skaha Lake, Goat dreams of surfing despite being hundreds of kilometers from the ocean. The film aims to offer an empowering female narrative while shedding light on the issue of child poverty in British Columbia. Produced by Warren Sulatycky and written, directed and produced by Caitlyn Sponheimer, the cast includes Dyllón Burnside (“Pose”), Shayelin Martin and Leandro Guedes.
“Hailey Rose” is a Canadian queer comedy that follows twentysomething Hailey’s return to her east coast hometown after a decade away, prompted by her sister’s urgent call. Confronting unemployment and the prospect of living with her partner, Hailey uncovers surprising truths about her family, friends, and herself. Written and directed by Sandi Somers, the film explores themes of love, acceptance, and self-discovery against the backdrop of Nova Scotia’s coast. Produced by Scott Lepp, Pablo Salzman, Stephen Finney, and Jordan Ashlee Uhl, “Hailey Rose” stars Kari Matchett (“The Night Agent”), Em Haine (“Fargo”), Caitlynne Medrek (“Fargo”), and Josh Cruddas (“Polar”).
The slate also includes Finnish post-apocalyptic thriller “Gravedigger” from Frozen Flame Pictures Ltd. Set in a world ravaged by diseases and acid rains, the film follows a mute gravedigger who joins forces with fellow survivors to avenge his colleague’s death at the hands of cannibals. The film is written and directed by Joonas Makkonen and produced by Miika J. Norvanto and Timo Puustinen.
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