Background Noise
Background Noise is a comedy short film set within the unique and often unseen world of background performers working in the film and television industry. Inspired by real experiences on set, the story explores the lives of the people who fill the edges of the frame while quietly chasing their own creative ambitions.
The film follows a group of background actors who find themselves spending long days together in background holding while working on an Alberta Television show. Between wardrobe calls, last-minute scene changes, and the constant waiting that comes with the job, conversations begin to reveal shared frustrations, dreams, and the reality of trying to break into the industry. What starts as casual banter gradually becomes something more meaningful as the group begins to imagine creating an opportunity for themselves rather than waiting for one to appear.
At its heart, Background Noise is about community. It captures the humor, patience, and resilience of performers who support each other through the ups and downs of the industry. The film celebrates the friendships that form in unexpected places and the quiet determination of artists who continue showing up, even when their roles may seem small.
Produced in Alberta, Background Noise is also a celebration of the province’s growing independent film scene. The project brings together local filmmakers, actors, and creatives who are passionate about telling stories and building a strong artistic community. By focusing on the world of background performers, the film shines a light on a part of the industry that is rarely explored while highlighting the talent and spirit that exists within Alberta’s film community.
Through humor, authenticity, and an ensemble cast of relatable characters, Background Noise reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful stories are happening just outside the spotlight.
The people bringing Background Noise to life
Gillian Anderson is an Alberta-based actor making her screenwriting debut with the short film Background Noise. Alongside writing the script, Gillian also produces and stars in the film, bringing a personal perspective to a story inspired by the unique world of background acting.
Passionate about independent filmmaking and Alberta’s growing screen industry, Gillian enjoys creating stories that are grounded, character-focused, and filled with humor. Background Noise highlights the camaraderie, challenges, and unexpected moments that can happen when a group of performers are all chasing the same dream.
@theothergilliananderson
Christopher Frostad is a director and filmmaker with a background in film studies from Toronto Film School. A blacksmith by trade, Christopher brings a hands-on, craftsman’s approach to storytelling and visual filmmaking. He also has firsthand experience working as a background performer, giving him a unique perspective on the world portrayed in Background Noise.
Christopher is excited to bring this story to life and looks forward to directing a film that captures the humor, ambition, and camaraderie of performers navigating the unpredictable world of film sets.
@frostadforge
Jesus Ortiz is the Director of Photography for Background Noise and the owner of Soluna Studios Inc., a Calgary-based video production company. A dedicated and experienced videographer, Jesus brings both technical skill and a strong creative eye to his work behind the camera.
Jesus has previously collaborated with Gillian on other projects, building a trusted creative partnership. In addition to his work as a cinematographer, he is also an actor, giving him a unique perspective on performance that helps support and elevate the storytelling on screen.
@solunastudiosinc
@jesusortizc_
This film is proudly supported by local sponsors and partners who believe in storytelling, creativity, and Alberta’s growing film industry. We are deeply thankful for their support.