Canadian Premiere of Oscar Shortlisted Film 'Downstream'

Sunday March 8th, 2pm and 4pm Metro Cinema Edmonton

Monday March 9th, 7pm and 9:30pm Plaza Theatre Calgary

Canada 2008, 33 min, DigiBeta, Director: Leslie Iwerks

At the heart of the multi-billion dollar oil sands industry in Northern Alberta, Dr. John O' Connor's career is jeopardized as he fights for the lives of the aboriginal people living and dying of rare forms of cancer downstream from one of the largest oil operations in the world. Making the short-list for this year's Academy Award® Nominations for best short documentary, Downstream provides an in-depth look at the toll oil sands extraction is potentially taking on the residents of Fort Chipewyan.  A community affected by high rates of unusual cancer, the people of Fort Chip have struggled for years to have their concerns addressed by government and industry. Downstream has raised unprecedented awareness in Canada and the U.S. regarding the environmental and social impacts of the tar sands.  In conjunction with high level members of the NRDC, it is now being viewed by members of the Obama Administration. Following its upcoming Canadian premiere in Edmonton and Calgary March 8th & 9th, it will have its International premiere on Babelgum.com in March 2009. The accompanying feature film, Upstream, is scheduled for release in Summer of 2009.

Academy Award® and Emmy® Nominated Director Leslie Iwerks; Emmy-Award Winning Producer Phil Alberstat; Doctor John O'Connor, investigative journalist Andrew Nikforuk, scientist Kevin Timoney, among others will be in attendance to take part in a panel discussion with the public and media following the 2pm screening in Edmonton March 8th and following the 7pm screening in Calgary March 9th. Proceeds of ticket sales will benefit the people of Fort Chipewyan.

March 8th @ 2pm and 4pm, Metro Cinema Edmonton
March 9th @ 7pm and 9:30pm, Plaza Theatre Calgary