In Translation

Synopsis

A married couple struggles to communicate their desire for intimacy.

Creative team

Writer/producer/director: Corey LeeProducer: Susan Bristow
Writer: John Gould

Personal statement

Corey Lee says:

“After completing What You’re Ready For, the second film in this short film trilogy, I considered several of the remaining Kilter: 55 fictions stories before finally deciding, with the assistance of author John Gould, to embark upon adapting the extremely economical battle of the sexes commentary, In Translation.

There were certainly other stories that stayed in the race right up until the final lap, but I just kept coming back to this sexy and simple little jousting match.

All of these films (in the trilogy) explore our search for truth, the price of knowledge and the compromises and sacrifices we choose or are forced to make day in, day out. But I was charmed by the fencing duel of spoken words and thoughts in this gender and culture clash.

It was, at times challenging: how disconnected their thoughts were from what actually comes out of their mouths. It could certainly have all played much bigger and louder.

For me the art was in keeping it as subtle and layered as it exists in John’s beautifully complex, yet lean story. And certainly, the icing on the cake was to be able to adapt this script with him.

After the success of the first film (The Perfection of the Moment), I was inspired to go back and tap into more of Kilter. The films are all so different and yet somehow work well together. Most importantly, they are a good example of the irony, humour, catharsis, diversity and depth found in the book.

Now looking at the finished films all together, I think the trilogy is really just my way of thanking John for writing this amazing collection of stories.

About Corey Lee

Corey has worked in many facets of the motion picture business since the mid nineties.

He has written, directed, produced and co-edited the dramatic feature film Defining Edward which premiered in Toronto at the 2003 ReelWorld Film Festival, was an official selection at the 2003 Calgary International Film Festival and was also licensed by Corus Entertainment’s Movie Central.

In addition, Corey has crafted music videos and short films including the Kilter trilogy, adapted from the 2003 Giller prize short-listed collection, Kilter: 55 fictions, by John Gould.

The trilogy contains three films: The Perfection of the Moment, What You’re Ready For and In Translation which have received nine awards and 18 nominations.

His recent work also includes ClimaXXX: a love story, Reality Testing and the animated Armour For a Boy.

Corey has completed a stint as head writer on a documentary television series and remains a regular instructor of screenwriting, directing and the filmmaking process at the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers.

The majority of Corey’s films are archived in the National Collection at Library and Archives Canada.

Corey is currently in production on the National Film Board co-produced feature documentary Warrior Legend.