‘They inspire us’: N.B. filmmaker set to screen new documentary in hometown

A Riverview filmmaker highlights three dedicated community members in her latest documentary.

When Colleen Furlotte started making movies in 2009, she really had no experience, but she knew that it was her calling.

“I was a bit of an interloper because I have no background in film. I never studied film. I had an idea for a film and it wouldn’t let me go,” said Furlotte.

The Riverview, N.B., producer and director’s latest project is called “A Fervent Pull,” a locally produced documentary series that revolves around three Albert County residents who are passionate about what they do.

She tells the unique stories of tidal bore surfer Melvin Perez, artistic portrait photographer Danica Sherry, and long-time volunteer Rodney Steeves who is dedicated to maintaining and preserving Riverview’s Dobson Trail.

“I actually have always been drawn to people who have a strong interest or a strong passion. I find that really compelling,” she said. “It’s something that is so strong that their lives have sort of shaped themselves around that passion or that interest.”

Furlotte has won awards for her work including one from the YWCA Moncton for her contributions to arts and culture, something she is particularly proud of.

She’s part of a tiny, three-person crew, and does everything but the camera and audio work.

“A Fervent Pull” is co-produced by musician and audio engineer John Maher while cameraman Wes Perry rounds out the trio.

“I always laugh because if you watch the credits in my productions, it’s like there are hardly any names and you just keep seeing them repeated,” said Furlotte. “But the plus side of that is we can be very spontaneous. It’s very intimate. Nothing is scripted. I don’t even have story lines planned. We kind of just go in and I let the process unfold organically.”

The roughly 90-minute film will be screened at the Riverview Arts Centre in conjunction with the town’s winter carnival on Feb. 6.

“I’m proud of our area. I’m proud of Albert County. I’m proud of the people that we’re going to be celebrating that night. I’m proud of what they give back to the community just by following their own hearts,” said Furlotte. “They excite us. They inspire us.”

Tickets for next week’s screening of “A Fervent Pull” are pay what you can (minimum $10) with all proceeds going towards the Albert County Food Bank.

The documentary is available on demand on Bell Fibe TV1 for anyone who can’t make the screening.

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