Greetings again from the darkness. Residents of the senior center in Aurora, Ontario can now provide quite an answer if they are ever asked the question, “What’s better than Bingo?”. Seriously, when filmmaker Sean Cisterna (THE LONG RIDER doc, 2022) pitches the idea of forming a film crew from this group in order to produce a short horror film entitled, “The Rug”, we are as skeptical as the residents. Most readily admit they aren’t fans of horror films, but something magical happens when they begin taking on the roles of production design, sound, practical effects, props, wardrobe, camera operator, and first assistant director.
Upbeat documentaries that deliver joy are not common, yet Cisterna and this band of seniors who jump right in are such a welcome relief from a world that seems to get bumpier every day. We really shouldn’t be surprised. These folks (up to age 96) bring a lifetime of skills and a passion and a willingness to try something new, while proving they have much to offer. We thoroughly enjoy getting to know each of them and wouldn’t have minded at all if more individual time had been spent on camera.
The premise here is that Cisterna was running into roadblocks as he tried to secure financing for his next film. He then stumbled upon a government grant for keeping seniors engaged. Now you would be forgiven if your mind wandered to the idea of free labor or one man taking advantage of the elderly, but such doubts will fade once you see how seriously the crew takes this project … collaboration and conflict on full display. It actually feels like a celebration as the premiere of “The Rug” takes place. We can sense the pride of accomplishment. The ending sequence puts a worthy exclamation point on what we’ve just watched. It’s a true audience-pleaser, as well as an insight into indie filmmaking. Bingo night will never be the same.
Premiering on BloodStream on November 6, 2026
