Edmonton’s film industry is shaped by creators like Katrina Beatty, founder of Loud Whisper Productions, whose work continues to elevate the stories and voices of underrepresented communities.
Loud Whisper Productions is best known for producing the award-winning film, Before I Change My Mind, a coming-of-age story set in 1980s Alberta, exploring identity, belonging, and resilience. The film earned three Rosie Awards, a nomination from GLAAD, and the 2022 Edmonton Film Prize. It’s now available on Crave.
A Pivotal Moment: Locarno Film Festival
In 2023, Loud Whisper premiered Before I Change My Mind at the Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland—an unforgettable milestone made possible by travel support from Edmonton Screen.
“It was hands down the most amazing festival experience of my life,” Katrina says. “The whole town came out to watch films. They didn’t care about celebrities. They cared about cinema.”
For a film made on a microbudget, this kind of access was critical.
“When you’re making a film under a million dollars, there’s nothing left to get you to a festival. That support from Edmonton Screen made a real difference.”
Strengthening the Infrastructure
With years of experience as a producer, director, and line producer, Katrina has become a cornerstone of Edmonton’s filmmaking community. She’s a member of the Directors Guild of Canada, serves on the WIFTA board, and recently line produced The Land of Nod—a film by Skinamarink director Kyle Edward Ball—primarily shot in Edmonton.
“We have incredible talent here in Edmonton. But we need to keep building the infrastructure to support them.”
Katrina sees Edmonton Screen’s role as foundational, not just in funding Alberta film projects, but in anchoring the city’s screen presence and supporting the industry long term.
“No major film centre in the world exists without a municipal film office,” she says. “We finally have that again in Edmonton, and it’s making a difference.”
Looking Ahead
For Katrina, the goal is more than producing standout films. It’s creating a sustainable environment where local talent can thrive.
“Support from organizations like Edmonton Screen isn’t just about one project, “ she says. “It’s about building a foundation so people can stay, work, and grow here.”
Author: Merilyn
Communications & Social Media Consultant