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, producer, and writer making her screenwriting debut with the short film Background Noise. As the film's writer, Executive Producer, and lead actor, she brings a personal perspective to a story inspired by her own experiences in the world of background acting and the friendships formed along the way.
A passionate advocate for independent filmmaking and Alberta's growing screen industry, Gillian has worked on numerous film and television productions as both an actor and background performer, giving her a firsthand understanding of life on set. Through Background Noise, she aims to celebrate the often-overlooked performers who help bring productions to life while showcasing the camaraderie, challenges, humor, and heart found in chasing a shared dream. Her goal is to create authentic, character-driven stories that shine a light on the people behind the scenes and inspire others to pursue their creative passions.
Jason Gleaves brings over 30 years of sales and relationship-building experience to Background Noise, where he serves as Co-Executive Producer, Casting Director, and appears in a supporting role. A familiar face in Alberta's film industry, Jason has worked as an actor, stand-in, model, and real-life Background Wrangler, giving him invaluable behind-the-scenes insight. His firsthand experience in the holding tent and on set has helped shape the film's authenticity, while his leadership and passion for storytelling have been instrumental in casting and supporting the production from development through filming.
Background Noise also reunites Jason with writer and producer Gillian Anderson after the two previously co-starred in the short film Blackbird. Their shared passion for authentic storytelling and the Alberta film community continues to drive their collaboration on this project.
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.
Christopher Frostad is a director and filmmaker with a background in film and theatre. He studied acting, directing, and film and theatre production at Bethany College and Toronto Film School. Christopher brings a hands-on, craftsman's approach to storytelling from being a Blacksmith and machinist by trade. Having had first-hand experience of being background on many sets, Christopher understands the world Background Noise is set in. He is excited to bring this story to life and looks forward to directing a film that captures the humour, ambition, and camaraderie of performers navigating the unpredictable world of film sets.
Meet the Cast of Background Noise!
Every great story begins with great performers. Click below to explore our cast slideshow and meet the talented actors bringing Background Noise to the screen.