559. Ren Olivieri “The Trade”

Happy Monday, Film Friends! Ren Olivieri brought his film “The Trade” to the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024, coming down from Canada to represent the film he wrote, produced, and starred in. This smart, funny, wonderfully produced short also took home the Programmer’s Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking. I also have to mention that Ren is one of those most excellent people who makes the most of the festival, coming to the Gala and closing night mixer, as well as catching many screenings.                               But that’s not why I like this dude… the truth is that we started bonding via email when I confessed to him my involvement in fantasy sports and sealed the deal upon meeting in person. But even cooler than becoming friendly with me, Ren met filmmaker Enrique Mendoza at the SOFF Opening Night Gala and the two kit it off, watched each other’s films at the fest, and then… collaborated on a film! For all I know it is in post at this point or even done! Ren is my kinda person!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Follow him on Instagram at @reno91 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website – DIF Instagram – DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation – Sherman Oaks Film Festival – Film Invasion Los Angeles