DEAN LAVERICK: A Top Producer and Production Company in Calgary Interview

Dean Laverick is a passionate filmmaker and producer whose journey in the film industry is marked by creativity, resilience, and a deep commitment to storytelling. His work spans a variety of short films, each reflecting his dedication to authentic narratives, community collaboration, and personal growth.

Dean’s filmmaking journey began during the pandemic when he was inspired to craft stories that resonate on a personal level. His project, One Click, is a prequel to a feature film he has written, titled The Evolution of a Gunfighter.

Calgary Star Ryan Northcott.

The idea for the short was born while relaxing by the pool in Mexico in February 2024, leading Dean and his wife to write the script and bring it to life over two days of shooting just north of Calgary during the July long weekend of 2024. Self-funded and driven by passion, this project marked a significant milestone in Dean’s career.

Like many filmmakers, Dean faced numerous obstacles during production. From logistical issues like the lack of washrooms to unpredictable weather, he learned valuable lessons in adaptability.

One of his most important realizations was the importance of delegation; initially wearing too many hats, Dean quickly understood the necessity of trusting his crew and sharing responsibilities. These lessons have shaped his approach to subsequent projects, making him a more effective and collaborative producer.

Dean’s projects often serve a greater purpose. His short film I Want to Be OK, written by his son, is a heartfelt survival story about his son's mental health journey. It’s a deeply personal work that reflects Dean’s belief in the power of storytelling to inspire and educate. His commitment to authenticity extends to other works, such as What a Beautiful Day, a film inspired by his aunt’s struggle dealing with her husbands Alzheimer’s. Dean collaborated with local organizations and consulted with a U of C Professor of Gereatrics to ensure the film was accurate. Casting a mother and daughter for the leads, Dean was insisted on having a female director that understood the mother/daughter dynamice and to ensure the story was portrayed with accuracy and sensitivity.

Through his dedication to quality and community, Dean has built a strong reputation in Calgary’s film industry. His shorts have been entered into numerous festivals, earning awards and heartfelt reactions. Notably, his film What a Beautiful Day received the Best Drama award at the Edmonton Short Film Festival and touched audiences deeply, including a neighbor who cried after watching it and shared that it helped her two daughter's understand what their family was about to go through dealing with their grandmother's Alzheimer’s.

Dean emphasizes the importance of starting small—recommending that new producers begin with short films to learn the craft. His experiences have taught him the value of clear deliverables, deadlines, and trusting creative teams. His leadership style fosters collaboration and respect, recognizing that film-making is a team effort.

Looking ahead, Dean plans to expand his short films into feature-length projects. His current development includes a feature titled Dresses in July, set to shoot in 2026, and plans for another feature film project called The Silence, truly inspired by his aunt's struggles with Dean's uncle, who was living with Alzhiemers at their home before he was put into a care facility. As well as a 6 part limited series about finding your true love titled "Soulmates". His goal is to continue building his portfolio, honing his craft, and contributing meaningful stories to the industry.

Throughout his career, Dean has prioritized local collaboration. He films primarily in Calgary, using local locations like sailing clubs and care facilities, and works closely with local organizations such as CSIF, the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers. His commitment to community strengthens the Calgary film scene and creates opportunities for emerging talent.

Eleven 9 Films is a Calgary-based production company that has been active since its incorporation in May 2022. The company is currently looking for Associate Producers to assist with various aspects of production. Dean Laverick, a producer at Eleven 9 Films, is seeking to take his career to the next level and is open to projects that require an Associate Producer. Dean is known for his hard work, organization, communication skills, and time management abilities.

Eleven 9 Films is actively involved in the film industry, and if you have any projects that need an Associate Producer, feel free to reach out to Dean Laverick.

Credits: PR: Kara Battle

Penelope Punk Studio, Benjamin Laird, Scott Sikma