Edmonton International Film Festival 2011

This film is IN COMPETITION for the 2011 Best Indie Feature Award CLOSING NIGHT FILM - Director Brian Crano and Star Jake Sandvig in attendance! Canadian Premiere On the surface, first-time feature filmmaker Brian Crano’s wonderfully offbeat comedy is about two misfit best friends incapable of growing up, whose direction is tested by an abandoned child, worn beyond his years; together they invent the family they've always needed. Dig deeper, however, and you’ll find one of the most entertaining and emotionally satisfying films of the year. Featuring pitch-perfect performances by Jason Ritter (whose monologue in the diner scene will leave you breathless), co-writer Jake Sandvig ( Easy A ), the impeccably-named Chandler Canterbury ( Knowing, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button ), and the wonderful Rebecca Hall ( The Town ), A Bag of Hammers balances comedy and tragedy with an equally deft hand, signaling the arrival of a major new filmmaking talent. 10pm-Midnight: 2011 Awards Ceremony and Closing Night Reception in the lobby of the Garneau. In attendance: Brian Crano and Jake Sandvig ( A Bag of Hammers ), Greg Gricus ( Wild Horse Wild Ride ), Mike Peterson ( Lloyd the Conqueror ). Complimentary nibbles. Cash bar. To attend this reception you must have a REEL DEAL Festival Pass or a ticket to the Closing Night film + after-party .

Becoming Santa is the story of one man entering the culture and character of Santa Claus for a single season. We follow Jack as he bleaches his hair, goes to Santa School and tries to do everything that Santa is asked to do. He works as a sidewalk Santa, does home visits, a Polar Express Train and a parade. Along the way, Jack collects children's wishes, learns about the benefits of belief, the history and origin of Santa and the ordinary people keeping the Santa spirit alive.