In times of economic uncertainty finding your own way in the world can be more daunting than usual.

That's the idea behind Bermuda International Film Festival (BIFF) premier 'NoNames' directed by Kathy Lindboe.

This film, based in central Wisconsin, promises to be one of the most popular premieres at BIFF which kicks off next week.

Inspired by true events, 'NONAMES' follows Kevin Williams and his family of friends as they struggle within the confines of a small town.

After his mother's death, Kevin decides to make a life for himself in his childhood home in spite of his father's decision to move.

In the wake of tragedy, Kevin must end his extended adolescence or lose the things he holds most dear.

NoNames trailer from Calvin Buchanan on Vimeo.

Haunted by unsettled scores, it becomes clear that he must leave the town he loves in order to save himself from it. A new beginning is only a bus ride away.

Shot on location in Central Wisconsin, 'NONAMES', focuses on this particular group of friends and their experiences growing up together while painting a subtle picture of the small town life dealing with topical issues of job loss and what's at stake if they don't change their direction.

Showcasing performances with up and coming actors James Badge Dale (HBO's, 'The Pacific') and Gillian Jacobs (NBC's 'The Community'), introducing a talented ensemble cast and featuring a poignant supporting performance by veteran performer.

"NONAMES is my first feature film," Ms Lindboe told The Royal Gazette. "I'm the writer, director and one of the producers."

The film is loosely built on the experiences of her brother, Kevin Lindboe, growing up in a small town in Wisconsin.

The story follows him and his group of friends into adulthood as they deal with hardships and a stagnant existence.

"The title comes from the idea that we are all anonymous to each other past the world we live in, i.e, the small town you live in or school you attend — whatever microcosms they may be," said Ms Lindboe.

"I don't believe one person's story is less significant than another and how you choose to live your life does forever mold your own legacy.

"In the end though, we all are basically 'no names' to each other. Sometimes it's hard to feel like your life matters when few people know you exist."

Unfortunately, her brother passed away at the age of 23.

"I wonder myself how he'd react," she said. "He'd probably be annoyed or just tease me that we didn't film grittier, more realistic moments that are harder to watch or put more classic rock in it.

"The story is loosely based on his last few months. We interviewed many of his close friends and my family was very involved. Everyone seems proud of what we did but I tried to combine some of the real stories with fictional ones enough so I wasn't trying to write the story FOR my brother just about some of his experiences."

Ms Lindboe said what she loved about the concept for 'Nonnames' was the bond between the main character and his friends.

"They become each other's family and depend on each other to move forward," she said. "I think the interesting thing is that sometimes when you have a close group of friends, it's easy to become comfortable in your world and you start to take each other and time for granted.

"Your surroundings can stunt your growth. Time can seem to stand still and then all of a sudden, we feel everything unravel and realise, we've done so little to evolve.

"We really don't have that long to get our lives set on the right path. At some point, it can be too late."

She said during the story, the group starts to understand what that means and what their lives have become.

"They finally start to become aware of their own existence after years of living irresponsible lives," she said.

Ms Lindboe felt she had a special film to offer.

"We are very excited to share with audiences around the world.

"Speaking of world, screening at Bermuda is our world premiere. We are attending five more festivals immediately after BIFF and hope to connect with audiences and find our way in the sales market.

"It will be interesting to see how people from various demographics will respond. We think it's a very accessible film but you never know how people will relate to it."

BIFF is scheduled for March 19 to 25. Tickets go on sale online and at the physical box office centres on March 10 at 10 a.m. The physical box office centres are: BIFF, 15 Front Street and iStore, 46 Reid Street, both in Hamilton, and Fabulous Fashions at Heron Bay Plaza, Southampton.

For more information see www.bermudafilmfest.com.

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