Unionville’s own director and writer Stephen Wallis is making waves in the global film scene with his latest project, The Martini Shot.
Starring renowned actors Matthew Modine and John Cleese, this Canadian film, shot in Ireland, has become the most decorated film of 2024, scooping up more than 47 major awards at prestigious in-person festivals around the world.
The Martini Shot is a deeply personal film for Wallis, who wrote the script during a period of health struggles. The story follows a film director who believes he’s God and is trying to make one final film before his death. Wallis describes it as a story about "the love of creation and the belief that humans are pieces of art.”
"I wanted to leave a film for my children that explored bigger questions than you usually see in films nowadays. I feel it’s my most profound work," he said.
“It’s been called the ‘first great film of 2024’ and we’ve been lucky enough to win over 47 awards at major film festivals worldwide,” Wallis shared. He also mentioned the growing buzz about potential nominations for major awards, especially for Matthew Modine’s outstanding performance in the film.
“Matthew’s performance is absolutely incredible. He’s already won a dozen best actor awards, which is mind-boggling,” Wallis added.
Despite its success abroad, the film hasn’t received as much attention in Canada, where it will premiere this fall.
Wallis acknowledges the challenges within the Canadian film industry.
"In Canada, we don’t really promote the best of us,” he said. “There’s a lot of cattiness in our industry. We force our best people to leave if they want to make it."
Having spent years in Los Angeles before returning to Canada, Wallis is keenly aware of the struggles Canadian filmmakers face.
“Unfortunately, Canada isn’t particularly supportive in promoting Canadian actors and filmmakers. It’s a fact that we don’t support our artists the way that other countries do. Everyone knows it.”
Wallis also critiques the state of the Canadian film industry, viewing it as a work in progress with significant flaws.
"Our actors’ union doesn’t really help actors or producers, and our biggest festivals have become ego-stroking parties. Distribution channels don’t pay the artists, making it difficult for people to succeed. We’re doing well, but it’s taken a long time to build that momentum."
Reflecting on his upbringing in Markham, particularly his time at Markham District High School, Wallis credits his early experiences for shaping his journey as a filmmaker.
“Markham was a huge influence on me. My drama teacher, Ron Hindle, pushed me to trust my instincts and make bold choices. Without that, I’d likely be working in a different field altogether.”
Therefore, Wallis remains hopeful despite the challenges because he believes in the enlightenment education and the potential of Canadian artists from actors like Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams to directors like Sarah Polley and Atom Egoyan.
“We have the talent to make massive blockbusters with Canadian artists,” he said, “We just need to decide that it’s time to tell our own stories and showcase ourselves.”
Scarlett Liu is a federally funded Local Journalism Initiative reporter at Markham Economist & Sun
Editor's Note: The Martini Shot went home with an award from the Garden State Film Festival, March 24, 2024.
