As part of its Universal Studios Screenwriter-in-Residence Program, the public is invited to a special evening with writer/director Ingrid Veninger, and the cast of her most recent feature film, The Animal Project, which had its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, and has been traveling festivals around the globe.

“The evening will be about process”, says Veninger. She aims to discuss how the screenplay was developed for this particular project. This event will also allow us, the audience, to meet the cast and hear from their experiences making the film as well.

The Animal Project is a dark comedy centered on a single father, his teenage son, and large furry animals, which tells the story of a Toronto theatre director who attempts to push a group of eager young performers out of their comfort zones.

The screening will take place in the newly renovated Innis Town Hall, a 200-seat state-of-the-art cinema located in the heart of University of Toronto’s campus. Following extensive renovations, this will be the first public event hosted in this revitalized space.

Ingrid Veninger’s work as a writer-director is one that delves into the intricacies between families, friends, and lovers. I enjoy her films because they are genuine and complex without the need of extras like special effects of being overly produced. I like the honesty found in most of her characters, as well as, how relatable they are to everyday people like ourselves. She is certainly someone whose work I admire and appreciate of various levels. I have yet to see The Animal Project but I’m quite curious to see it, as it is receiving some very positive reviews.

The film cast from The Animal Project will participate in an interactive introduction, and a discussion will follow the screening, moderated by Cinema Studies Professor and Programmer, Kay Armatage.

To RSVP to this event, please go to: alumni.innis.utoronto.ca.