Barbie Ferreira Shines in ‘Mile End Kicks’: A New Chapter for the ‘Euphoria’ Star

Often, film critics are fortunate enough to preview exceptional, heartfelt films long before they reach a wider audience. This is particularly true at film festivals, where a wealth of new content is showcased, but distribution can be a challenge. Thankfully, Chandler Levack’s delightful and insightful film, “Mile End Kicks,” is bucking that trend. Premiering at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (where it was a standout) and set for a U.S. premiere at SXSW, this film is generating significant buzz.

IndieWire contributor Katie Rife aptly compared “Mile End Kicks” to an indie version of “Almost Famous,” and the comparison holds true. The film, set against the vibrant backdrop of Montreal’s indie music scene in 2011, follows Grace, a 24-year-old music critic who finds herself romantically entangled with members of a band she’s tasked with promoting. The cast includes the incredibly talented Barbie Ferreira, alongside Devon Bostick, Stanley Simons, Juliette Gariépy, and Jay Baruchel.

A Role Rooted in Personal Experience

Levack, a Canadian filmmaker and former music critic herself, shared that the film is deeply personal. She wrote the screenplay a decade ago, drawing heavily from her own experiences. “At that time, I felt like I just kind of had never written anything that actually felt like me,” Levack explained. “I was like, OK, I’m going to spend a month, and I’m going to write this screenplay.”

Ferreira’s Career-Defining Performance

The director is effusive in her praise for Ferreira’s performance, calling it “extraordinary” and a true commitment to the role. “She really gave her whole heart and soul to the performance,” Levack said. “She learned a Canadian accent with a voice coach! I can’t imagine anyone else doing this part now.” Levack further describes Grace as an “incredible romantic heroine, kind of in the tradition of Bridget Jones,” but emphasizes her “authenticity and raw” emotional depth.

“Mile End Kicks” delves into the complexities of life, love (with Grace navigating relationships with two members of the same band), professional hurdles, and the lingering effects of past trauma. It’s a film that seamlessly blends romantic comedy with a coming-of-age narrative, offering a bright, funny, sexy, and ultimately poignant experience – a testament to the director’s lived experiences.

Where to Watch

Sumerian Pictures will release “Mile End Kicks” in theaters on Friday, April 17th. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness Barbie Ferreira’s captivating performance in this critically acclaimed indie gem. You can learn more about the film and its cast at Sumerian Pictures’ website.