The folks at Prairie Dog Film and Television have been ecstatic ever since their major TV series Blackstone was nominated for a total of 14 awards.
That’s nine nominations from the 37th annual Rosie Awards doled out by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association. The Edmonton-based company also received an additional five nominations from Vancouver’s Leo Awards. Both awards celebrate outstanding achievement in the film industry.
“The stories have impacted the country in a big way. It feeds at the grassroots level with its compelling stories. It resonates with people. And everyone here is very proud of the work we’ve done both individually and collectively,” says director Ron E. Scott.
The former St. Albert resident has crafted an HBO-style serialized television format that explores the power and politics at a native reservation. As the nine-episode series’ executive producer, Scott strives to unravel the complex puzzles and dynamics related to addictions, corruption, infidelity and all the qualities that make people human.
“These are things everyone faces. It’s really a show about people, a character-driven story,” he adds.
First filmed in Namao in July 2010 and shown on APTN, Blackstone has invited interest from Entertainment Tonight, Hollywood Reporter and every major news organization in the country. “It’s quite something.”
“There is nothing like Blackstone on TV right now. It’s a quest for the authentic and it’s hitting buttons people don’t like to hit. You might be skeptical, but once you watch it, it’s very satisfying. It’s an ever-changing landscape of complexity.”
Scott, who is MĂ©tis, took years to come to terms with his heritage. He never met his father and for the largest part of his childhood, his heritage was suppressed. “It wasn’t cool.”
Audiences have split their affection between most of the characters. However, a few that stand out are Eric Schweig’s portrayal of Chief Andy Fraser who is involved in a legacy of nepotism, corruption and extortion. “He is the villain you love to hate.”
On the other hand, Gail Stoney (Gail Thrush) is the sympathetic alcoholic trying to turn her life around. And Cecil, an elder seeking peace, is a seamless fit for Gordon Tootoosis, one of Canada’s elder statesmen of film.
Scott confirmed the eight-part series is in development for a second season. “We have some pretty engaging characters. In season two, we’d like to develop new stories and go in different directions with the characters.”
Prairie Dog has also won awards for Mixed Blessings, My Green House and Cowboy Country.
The Rosies will be handed out Saturday, May 28 at the Edmonton Marriott at River Cree Resort and the Leo Awards will be presented the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on Saturday, June 11.
For more information visit www.ampia.org.
