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I began my artistic career and extended foray into poverty as a punk/alternative rock songwriter/musician in Vancouver during the early nineties and the era of grunge rock. Rock stardom wasn't in the plans, however, a chance encounter with a camcorder set me on the path towards my next love ... film/video. Employing the punk philosophy of 'anyone can do it', I began shooting everything in sight … while learning by doing. After writing and directing several short films, and creating numerous bluescreen and time-lapse nature art videos, I felt ready to dive into the deep end. 'Infusion Latina' is my debut into feature documentary filmmaking. This project was a labour of love and a lot of plain old fashioned labour. In true independent film tradition, this story was made with no industry interest or outside financing whatsoever. So, with only the belief in myself and motivated to prove the world was wrong and I was right, I set off like an anorexic glutton and started filming. Armed with a Panasonic DVX 100B camera and a consumer model Sony camcorder I began shooting a group of Latin American immigrants in Vancouver, who had recently decided to form a choir. Three years, and hundreds of hours filming and editing later, I found myself with a rough 'cut' and an inspired story. Upon submitting the cut to a very supportive Murray Battle of BC's Knowledge network, I received some welcome affirmation in the form of a license agreement to broadcast 'Infusion Latina', and just as vital, funds to help with completing the post-production. The journey came full circle when the Vancouver Latin American Film Festival enquired as to my interest in having 'Infusion Latina' showcased as April's feature film for its 'Best of the VLAFF' series. Needless to say, the answer was a resounding YES. It was previewed at the Pacific Cinematheque theatre in downtown Vancouver on April 21st, 2009 before an appreciative audience and an appreciative director. Soon after, CBC licensed a version for broadcast on their digital channels BOLD and Documentary beginning Sept. 2009. Since working on this project and getting to know the members of Fusion Latina, I have gained a new understanding and appreciation of the Latin American temperament and culture, and their context within Canada's cultural mosaic. Ultimately, this is what I hope to share with all who watch this story. Canada is all the more dynamic with some Latin spice added to the mix. Thanks! To Fusion Latina, Fabiana Katz, Murray Battle, VLAFF, and CBC for your support! Randall Melnyk, August, 2009 Vancouver, B.C.
