Lindsay MacKay's Family Drama 'What If' Sets Market Debut at Toronto

Lindsay MacKay What If
Robin Love/Michael Mason

Penguin Pictures and Farpoint Films have announced their upcoming feature film “ What If ,” which will be directed by Lindsay MacKay ( “The Swearing Jar,” “Wet Bum”). The family drama is scheduled to have its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

“What If” centers around Marley, a woman in her 40s who discovers she was mistakenly switched at birth. This revelation sets her on a journey of self-discovery and redefining family, accompanied by an old high school friend who is also facing his own personal challenges.

Written by Leanne Melissa Bishop (“In Search Of”), the film is produced by Michael P. Mason (“The Weight of Perfection”), Bishop and Kyle Bornais (“The Swearing Jar”) of Farpoint Films. Peter Wetherell serves as executive producer.

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The film’s creative team boasts several TIFF veterans. MacKay’s debut film “Wet Bum” premiered at TIFF in 2014, while her second feature film “The Swearing Jar” screened at the 2022 festival. Mason, a graduate of the Canadian Film Centre, has worked on projects that have been showcased at TIFF and other prestigious film festivals.

Casting details for “What If” are yet to be announced.

“Our overarching goal is to create a film that allows viewers to see themselves authentically, without any pretense. Our characters are on a journey of self-discovery, seeking their family, their community. We want this film to give voice to that journey, and through it, help others find their true selves. And there's no harm in entertaining people along the way,” said Bishop.

MacKay added: “The script brings to life an emotionally complex and deeply personal family history, but manages to do so with humor and a light touch. I'm thrilled to take the audience on Marley's journey as she uncovers her past and discovers a path toward her future.”

Bornais stated: “‘What If’ is a special film that gives a voice to the choices we make every day. We may not realize it, but it's these daily decisions – not the outcomes – that connect us to one another.”

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