Chandler Levack (Mile End Kicks)

In this episode of The Writers Panel, host Ben Blacker welcomes filmmaker Chandler Levack to discuss his journey as a writer-director, focusing on his two new films released on April 17, 2026: the indie drama *Mylon Kicks* and the studio comedy *Roommates*, both directed by Levack. Levack recounts the arduous path to making his debut feature *I Like Movies*, which he initially struggled to finance, before being inspired by the Duplass brothers' advice to 'make something with your friends for as little as possible'—a lesson that led to his breakthrough. He reflects on how the experience shaped his second feature, *Mylon Kicks*, which he reworked with greater emotional depth and nuance, particularly in its protagonist’s complex relationship with power and desire. The conversation also explores his use of music—especially Alanis Morissette’s *Jagged Little Pill*—as a thematic and emotional anchor. Levack shares insights into directing *Roommates*, a studio project he didn’t write but deeply reinterpreted through collaboration with Adam Sandler and writers Jimmy Falli and Kira O’Sullivan, embracing a wildly tonal blend of heartfelt coming-of-age and absurd comedy. He closes by spotlighting three standout Canadian films from the same release window, celebrating the current golden era of Canadian cinema.