Lenin M. Sivam was born in Jaffna, Sri Lanka and raised in Toronto, Canada. He graduated from the University of Waterloo with a degree in computer science and presently works as a software architect in Toronto where he also lives with his wife and three young children. Sivam's many responsibilities, however, do not deter him from his passion for making movies that matter. He is a talented and self–taught storyteller who writes, produces and directs most of his movies by drawing on the skills and knowledge he gained from taking part–time filmmaking courses at Ryerson University. His diverse and controversial body of work is well respected in the independent film community. His debut short film, A Few Good People won the Best Short Film of the Year Award from the Independent Art Film Society in 2006. With a well–researched script, he tackled the stigma attached to mental illness in Strength. It won critical acclaim for its portrayal of a clinically depressed young man finding the strength and conviction to ask for help. Finally, his short thriller Next Door explored the psyche of a serial killer. 1999 marks Sivam's full feature directorial debut. A labour of love, the film was written, directed and produced on a shoestring budget financed by family and friends. Shot over 12 consecutive weekends in Toronto, the film features an entirely volunteer ensemble of talented cast and crew who were passionate about telling a story that needed to be shared with fellow Canadians. Mr. Sivam will speak about art and the lack of support in our communities for art and the artists. He will share his journey from becoming an engineer to his childhood dream of movie making. Many youth talk about their passion for art, but are not able to follow through as they are unable to muster enough strength to follow their heart. |
