Matthew Kowalchuk stands out as a rising star in Canada’s filmmaking and screenwriting scene. His impressive debut feature film Lawrence & Holloman, which he co-wrote with Daniel Arnold, has received rave reviews worldwide and clinched the prestigious Canadian Comedy Award for Best Feature. Matthew and Arnold’s exceptional writing skills also earned them nominations for screenwriting awards at both the Leos and Canadian Comedy Awards.
Lawrence & Holloman has amassed an impressive array of accolades, including the Emerging Director Award at VIFF, Rising Star Filmmaker at EIFF, Best Director of a Comedy at VTXIFF, and Best Comedy at RxSM Austin. These awards highlight Matthew’s talent and the film’s universal appeal, solidifying its place as a standout piece in t he comedy genre.
Matthew’s creative journey extends beyond feature films. He has garnered acclaim for his work on award-winning shorts such as The Janitors, which won the National Screen Institute Drama Prize, and Hearing Test. His versatility is further showcased in the live-action animated commissioned short film Penguins (are so sensitive to my needs), demonstrating his ability to excel in diverse storytelling formats.
One of Matthew’s recent shorts, Bedbugs: A Musical Love Story, made a significant impact at its debut in the Edmonton International Film Festival, winning the Canadian Short Film Award. This achievement underscores Matthew’s ability to create captivating narratives that resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Matthew Kowalchuk’s rise in the Canadian filmmaking industry is a testament to his talent and dedication. His unique storytelling ability, combined with his flair for comedy, has set him apart as a filmmlaker and sccreenwriter to watch. As he continues to produce innovative and compelling work, Matthew is sure to leave a lasting impression on the world of cinema.