Shot in the Dark Productions believes puppets can captivate both children and adults, conveying important environmental science themes through entertainment.
Shot in the Dark Productions premiered two films at the Yukon Arts Centre on November 15, showcasing boreal forest puppetry and an Arctic romance trilogy. The independently produced films are available on YouTube and social media, with the production company seeking wider distribution channels.
Kelly Milner, the films' producer, emphasized the challenges of independent production. "As an independent producer, I don't have to be the platform, but I need to figure out how to get this show out into the world," Milner said.
The premiere featured Northern Tails, a mockumentary-style web series that explores environmental themes through puppetry. The series boasts a unique blend of humor, education, and pop culture references. Voice actors shared their experiences behind the scenes, and the audience was treated to a special appearance by Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai.
Shot in the Dark Productions believes puppets can captivate both children and adults, conveying important environmental science themes through entertainment. The production company received $25,000 in federal funding to support professional puppetry training for Northerners.
However, distributing independently produced Yukon films remains a significant challenge. Andrew Connors, artistic director of the Yukon Film Society, highlighted the hurdles faced by local filmmakers, including limited access to industry decision-makers, high travel costs, and a crowded marketplace. To overcome these challenges, Connors suggests leveraging film festivals and industry events to connect with distributors, sales agents, and other key players. By building partnerships and forging relationships, Yukon filmmakers can increase their chances of success in the competitive film industry, Connors said.