DIRECTOR DETAILS
Toronto-born Anita Ayres is an award-winning director/writer/editor. Starting out in the business writing and directing some of Much Music’s most popular IDs and promos, it was an easy transition into the ad biz. Helming successful campaigns for the likes of Nabisco, Fosters, Coors Light, and Kellogg’s while working out of Los Angeles, Chicago, and Toronto, she was able to refine her eye and cinematic style.
Recently Anita has also delved into documentary and docudramas directing several episodes of Mayday: Air Crash Investigations for Disney/National Geographic as well as the poignant heartfelt documentary Escape the Nazis: Heroes of the Holocaust. In the summer of 2023, she directed a Canadian Heritage Minute on Regina’s own Mary Bonnie Baker, something she sees as a career highlight.
Historica – Mary “Bonnie” Baker
In constructing the story of Mary Bonnie Baker, a fearless Canadian woman whose career saw her break social and athletic barriers, all while maintaining dignity and integrity in the face of discrimination, Producer Brent Kawchuk and director Anita Ayres ingeniously centred the Minute on a real-life appearance on What’s My Line? Playing the Minute like a movie trailer, they were able to highlight Baker’s life and spirit in a way that is both informational and captivating, in under a minute. The result is one of the most popular Heritage Minutes they’ve ever produced.
PHSA – BCEHS Recruiting Spot
Unscripted and featuring real paramedics at work, this recruitment video puts a spotlight on the unsung heroes of our society. As we followed paramedics responding to calls, we ensured everyone on and off camera was safe and comfortable before we started shooting – creating an environment where the rewards of the job and the personalities in uniform can radiate through the camera.
DIRECTORS LIST
Within our esteemed internal team of directors at Barbershop Films, a wealth of diverse talents converges, spanning from expert storytelling and visual acumen to groundbreaking cinematography and versatile creative prowess, collectively defining our cinematic landscape.
Celebrating a diverse spectrum of expertise, our collaborative network of skilled directors at Barbershop Films embodies a rich tapestry of talents, ranging from adept storytelling and visual mastery to innovative cinematography and genre-defying creativity.
INDUSTRIES
