Happy FKN Sunshine tells the story of Ronnie Weston (Mattea Brotherton) and her brother Will (Matt Close) who live in a one mill town. When the mill workers go on strike, the future for their family looks bleak. Fortunately, Ronnie has found a brisk business selling weed. When Will wants to start a band, Ronnie uses her weed profits to buy Will an electric guitar.

Against everybody’s advice, Will enlists local outcast Artie Porter (Dana Hodgson) as the bass player. Artie spends his days allegedly partying with heavy metal icons and getting fellatio from rock and roll legends – or so he says. Artie’s lies cause instant conflict within the band, especially with Vince (Connor Rueter), the egotistical lead singer. But the musical chemistry is undeniable, and Will feels that his band just might hit the big time. If they can survive their dying town…and each other.

Filmed in and around North Bay, Ontario. Soundtrack on Spotify.

The film is available January 10 on iTunes, Amazon (US), Google Play, Microsoft, Vudu, inDemand, Vubiquity, DirecTV, Dish.

The thematic soundtrack is filled with classic deep cuts by Carl Perkins, Mura Masa feat Slowthai, 999, Otis Clay, Willie Cobbs, IOLITE, Eddie Burns, Maestro Wes William feat Chuck D, and Alexander Lewis along with original songs Pogey, Drive, and That’s How It’s Gonna Be written exclusively for the film.

The film is directed by Derek Diorio and features an ensemble cast of musical legends Wes Williams and Ted Dykstra and newcomers Matt Close, Mattea Brotherton, Connor Rueter, Dana Hodgson and Maxime Lauzon. Written by Ryan Keller and J. Gordon Ross, and produced by Ryan Keller, Jonathan Hlibka, and Terry E. Markus. 

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.