Cityphile: Sean Devlin - Comedian/Filmmaker

For the past 5 years Sean Devlin has been busy in Vancouver as both a comedian & filmmaker. This September he performed at the prestigious Bumbershoot Arts Festival. His first feature film, 2004's "Zach & Avery" is screening at The Vancity Theatre on Saturday November 3rd @ 2pm. You really have to click on the video, before we go on.

I enjoyed my very own copy of this cd so much, we decided to give you an interview with this smashing young lat before the screening takes place. Before that, I have a one or two tiny remarks on this film. First off it's filmed entirely in Vancouver, in some very familiar East Vancouver settings that will arouse nostalgia. But, most of all, what was absolutely overwhelming in the film was the brilliant humor and wit among characters that seemed to know each other so well, the button-pushing could only exist this extreme in theatre. But enough about me, and my take on this film. I want us to have a chat with this guy, so here it is. My questions for Sean were pretty straight forward, and he was a delight to talk to.

> (1) So Sean, what is Zach and Avery all about?

I wrote the film during my first year living in Vancouver. I think it is inspired by personal relationships as well as the city itself. I could continue, but you really have to see it for yourself...

> (3) Describe the collaborative spirit in Vancouver.

I feel like the industry in this city is full of a lot of people working on film sets for American productions. I think that deep down a lot of these people wanted to pursue their own creative path. So outlets like film contests thrive. There are also a lot of people in this city looking to help out on productions simply for the experience. Which helps when you've got a small production.

> (4) Where do you locate yourself among the Film community in this city.

I wouldn't really consider myself part of any Film community. I don't really hang out with any other filmmakers. If there is in fact a loop, I am not in it. I think it would be more accurate to locate me as part of the comedy community. Which reminds me, The Sunday Service is a great show (Sundays @ 9pm Hennessey - 53 W.Broadway).

> (5) What do you see Vancouver becoming in the future?

I'm really excited by what's going on at The Great Northern Way Campus. All the major schools currently share it as an industrial campus. But with the help of some government funding it's being converted into (hopefully) one of the premiere Graduate New Media Programs on the planet. Supposedly there will be a lot of opportunities and resources there, not just for students but for independent artists as well. I've seen the initiative described as an attempt to make Vancouver the new Hollywood for the internet. I don't really like Hollywood, but I think the internet is pretty cool. So it should be interesting. Which reminds me, The Living Room is a great internet show I make with my friend Kevin Lee (see: http://www.lvroom.com).

> (6) Tell me which local films are an inspiration to you? Where can everyone find these?

Again, I don't know much local film. I really liked Flower & Garnet. But that as a fairly large production. As far as real Indie film in the city, I guess I don't really know what's out there. Isn't that sad?

> (7) Would you be willing to give away a few tickets to your upcoming screening?

Sure, I think something can be arranged ;)

> (8) If so, what skill-testing question do you think we should ask the readers, to get them to earn their free screening ticket?

The Sunday Service is a fantastic local comedy show which happens every Sunday at what wonderful local establishment? Maybe we should do a draw for this?

So we are, and this is it. Any takers or rather, any answers?