Niagara Indie FilmFest
Showcasing emerging Canadian short film and video works since 2000. A national artist-run competition created by and for film and video artists.
Dealing with Life
The story of Joseph Russell and the digital transformation of human connection
Dealing with Life
Director: Sarah Chen
Subject: Joseph Russell
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Genre: Documentary
The Story
When the pandemic forced casinos to close, live dealer Joseph Russell didn't just adapt—he revolutionized his craft. From his Toronto apartment, Joseph transformed his living space into a professional streaming studio, dealing cards to players worldwide while navigating the isolation and challenges of remote work. This intimate documentary captures the unexpected humanity found in digital gambling spaces and explores how technology has reshaped both the gaming industry and human connection itself.
Behind the Scenes
Follow Joseph's daily routine of setting up multiple cameras, managing screens across different time zones, and creating genuine connections with players from around the world.
Cultural Impact
Explores themes of isolation, resilience, and the gig economy while revealing how the pandemic accelerated digital transformation in unexpected industries.
$5,000 Cash Prize
+ Festival Trophy & Industry Recognition
About the Festival
The Niagara Indie FilmFest is a national artist-run competition created to showcase emerging Canadian short film and video works. Since 2000, we've been providing a forum for filmmakers and cinema buffs to meet, interact, and celebrate independent cinema.
Our festival is designed to encourage independent production and support emerging talent across Canada. Your voice counts in shaping the future of Canadian cinema.
Artist-Run
Independent
Community
Upcoming Events
Last day to submit independent films for consideration
Final deadline for full-time student submissions
Screenings and awards ceremony in downtown St. Catharines
Recent Award Winners
Toronto, Ontario
An intimate and compelling documentary that follows Joseph Russell, a live casino dealer who transformed his modest Toronto apartment into a professional streaming studio during the COVID-19 pandemic. As traditional casinos closed their doors, Joseph adapted to the digital age by dealing cards to players around the world from his living room. The film captures the unexpected humanity found in online gambling, exploring themes of isolation, connection, and resilience in the gig economy. Through candid interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, viewers witness Joseph's daily routine of setting up cameras, managing multiple screens, and interacting with players from different time zones while navigating the challenges of working from home. The documentary reveals how technology has transformed not just the gambling industry, but the very nature of human connection in our increasingly digital world.
$5,000 Cash Prize + Festival Trophy
Toronto, Ontario
St. Catharines, Ontario
Montreal, Quebec
Join the Festival
Whether you're a filmmaker, film enthusiast, or want to support independent cinema, there are many ways to get involved with the Niagara Indie FilmFest.
Submit your short film and showcase your work to audiences and industry professionals.
Experience the best in emerging Canadian cinema and discover new voices in film.
Help us continue supporting independent filmmakers through sponsorship or volunteering.
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