T
he Trade is a dry comedic romp into an alternate reality where if you’d like to Trade your spouse with someone, that’s generally totally ok. As a filmmaker I’ve found that my favourite characters are usually obsessed with something. What better way to explore this than through Ray, a man so deep into his fantasy football league that he doesn’t notice his marriage slipping away? When Ray’s wife, Karen, decides she’s had enough of his obsession, she doesn’t just ask for a divorce—she trades him to another family, much like Ray would trade a player for better performance or more upside.
This bizarre yet hilarious premise sets the stage for a series of comedic moments as Ray slowly realizes he’s been traded. For real. The fun of this film lies in the absurdity of the situation. It’s about the ridiculousness of taking something too seriously and letting it overshadow what really matters. But it’s also about the hilarious outcomes when the tables are turned in the most unexpected ways. The world of The Trade is our world, just with this one delightful twist. Spousal trading is normal, and everyone goes along with it, making Ray’s journey both relatable and funny. Thanks to an amazing cast and crew who brought this whimsical story to life, I’m thrilled with how The Trade turned out. It’s a film meant to entertain and amuse, even for just a moment.
Biography
Screenwriter Biography: Ren Olivieri
I'm a Father, husband and the friend with the truck. I’m a typical Canadian. I work hard. I love hockey. I’m funny and I was born on a cold day in Winnipeg. You don't know me but, you’ve may have seen some of my creative work. The WestJet Christmas Miracle, a legendary Jack Daniel’s concert series and a Reebok campaign featuring Sidney Crosby, are a few career highlights. As a productive member of the advertising industry in Toronto for over twenty years, I’ve built and managed large agency teams who’ve created internationally recognized work that has increased agency revenue and improved client retention. My experience is matched only by my enthusiasm to continue creating original work that will be remembered.
Though new to writing comedy for the big screen, I've delivered inspiring work in multiple disciplines including commercials, documentaries and branded content. I'm a Second City Toronto alumni, having written and performed sketch and improv for the venerable comedy institution in Toronto. You're not going to get to know me by reading a profile page. Let’s hang out. I'm far more interesting in person.
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Director Biography: David Kalinauskas
David Kalinauskas is a Canadian Screen Award-nominated filmmaker and the visionary founder of Airfoil Media, one of Canada's fastest-growing commercial production companies. His journey into filmmaking began as a teenager on the ski hills, where he captured the adrenaline-fueled adventures with his friends. This initial foray into film sparked a deep passion for visual storytelling, driving him to explore and craft compelling human narratives through his lens.
David's work is characterized by a keen eye for detail and an innate ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. His films and commercials are known for their striking visuals, innovative techniques, and the authentic portrayal of human experiences. With a talent for weaving intricate stories that resonate, he has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following in the industry. Beyond his professional achievements, he remains deeply committed to mentoring emerging talent and contributing to the growth of the Canadian film production industry.