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Residents urged to share stories for mid-Island icon 'Flying Phil' film

Filming will take place at Village Theatre in Qualicum Beach Feb. 14 and Feb. 15
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A film about memories and stories of 'Flying Phil' St. Luke is in the works.

A local video production company is calling on residents to share their stories of 'Flying Phil' St. Luke, in the hope of capturing the life and legacy of the beloved community figure to be featured on film.

Johanna Osborne, owner of Pancake Pictures, said, in a news release, sheBԪַs felt called to create a film about St. Luke since before his passing in 2023. SheBԪַs eager to gather firsthand accounts of his life before memories begin to fade and those who knew him are no longer around to share their pieces of his story.

Filming will take place at the Village Theatre in Qualicum Beach on Feb. 14 and Feb. 15.

St. Luke, who stood six-foot-seven and had the developmental age of a good-hearted nine-year-old, was a fixture in the PQB community from the mid-1980s until his death at age 71.

The goal of the film is to create an intimate portrait of St. Luke's impact on the community, capturing personal stories from young and old that highlight his spirit, generosity, and connection with the people around him. Many in the community have expressed interest in learning more about his life, including the story behind his nickname, 'Flying Phil'. This project aims to piece together the stories of those who knew him and were touched by his life, with the goal of sharing his story with the world.

Known for his larger-than-life personality, his annual drumming in the Canada Day parade, his involvement in local sports and contributions to charitable causes, Flying Phil became a beloved figure. He was named Mr. Parksville and had his birthday declared 'Flying Phil Day' in his honour.

Johanna's production partner and husband, Mark Osborne, described by Johanna as a BԪַnatural-born interviewerBԪַ with a gift for making people feel comfortable in front of the cameraBԪַwill conduct the interviews, while Johanna directs. A small volunteer crew has already stepped forward to help bring the project to life. The Osbornes encourage anyone who might be hesitant about being on camera not to worry.

BԪַWe want it to be a relaxed and informal environment. This will be a friendly space where people can share their memories without pressure, and a unique way to spend their ValentineBԪַs sharing some 'Phil love'," Johanna said. BԪַSo far, the interviews weBԪַve filmed already BԪַ like the ones with artist Doug Giebelhaus, who painted the iconic portraits of Phil for Canada Day parades, and David St. Luke, PhilBԪַs brother BԪַ have been truly uplifting. Everyone has shared such positive stories about how Phil impacted their lives and we want to capture that energy on film for future generations."

All participants will need to sign a release and will of course be credited and kept in the loop how their stories will be used, whether the footage ends up in a documentary, as inspiration for a screenplay, or in a museum exhibit.

As a token of appreciation, the Flying Phil Memorial Project is offering everyone who interviews to get their name thrown into a hat for a draw at the end for a chance to win a couple of larger prizes, including a framed print of Phil by Giebelhaus.

To be included in the interviews, reach out to Johanna Osborne at info@pancakeproductions.ca. To sign up go to .

The project is made possible by a small grant from the Flying Phil Memorial Project, which is helping to cover a portion of the costs.



About the Author: Parksville Qualicum Beach BԪַ Staff

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