Production Begins on Rocket Fuel
Principal photography is officially underway in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, for Rocket Fuel, the debut feature film from writer and director Jessie Posthumus. The project is being shot entirely on 16mm film and serves as an expansion of the filmmaker’s 2022 short film of the same name.
The coming-of-age story is set during the summer of 2005 in a small Ontario town. It follows thirteen-year-old Nora, played by Ryland Beitel, as she balances her first job with the responsibilities of caring for her younger siblings. The narrative explores themes of gender expression, class divisions, and the significance of sibling bonds.
A Collaborative Production
The film marks a notable collaboration between Edge Entertainment and The Trans Film Mentorship. This partnership aims to provide paid, on-set experience to emerging trans, non-binary, and Two-Spirited community members. Three mentees from the Sault Ste. Marie area were selected to participate in the production, marking the program’s first collaboration in Northern Ontario.
The production team is led by producers Rosalia Chilelli and Jennifer Pun. The film is funded by Telefilm Canada, Ontario Creates, and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation. Game Theory Films is set to handle distribution within Canada, while international rights remain available.
Cast and Crew
In addition to Ryland Beitel, the cast includes Molly Lewis, William Kosovic, Zoe Kosovic, and Grayson Gallanders. The ensemble is supported by a group of Canadian performers, including Travis Nelson, Dylan Taylor, Fionn Laird, Cotey Pope, Lauren Beatty, and Chris Sandiford. Behind the camera, Isabelle Stachtchenko serves as director of photography, with Craig Scorgie handling editing duties.
This project represents a significant milestone for Posthumus, whose previous short film work has screened at various festivals including the Palm Springs International Shortfest and the Inside Out Toronto 2SLGBTQ+ Film Festival. By focusing on a nuanced representation of queer childhood, the production aims to offer a hopeful look at self-discovery and the importance of taking up space.
Source: Edge Entertainment
