Project: Shelf Life (Film)
A short film that centres on a forgotten musician’s journey through corporate life due to necessity, who is reawakened to his creative dreams through the fleeting interactions he has at work and a local grocery store – this was Emmanuel Teji’s artistic vision for his film Shelf Life. With the support of a Matchmaker MicroGrant from MAC, he was able to create his film. Exploring topics like finding purpose in life, pursuing your dreams, and the precariousness of immigrant workers, Emmanuel was able to seamlessly balance drama and comedy to bring the story to life.
“Given that so much of the protagonist’s journey mirrors my own, I healed on a personal level through undertaking this project, especially because I stepped into the role of lead actor and acted alongside my real mother. I also found growth in my artistic practice by capturing a narrative story on 16mm analogue film for the first time. This technical experience is something I will take with me.”
– Emmanuel Teji
Shelf Life is currently in the film festival circuit. Learn more: https://emmanuelteji.com/shelflife
Screenings:
October 2025 – IFFSA 2025 (World Premiere)
November 2025 – Mosaic International South Asian Film Festival 2025 (Winner of Best Director Award)
Our MicroGrant program is made possible through the efforts of dedicated volunteers through the Charitable Gaming program. Thank you, Rama Gaming House, Mississauga Charitable Gaming Association, and Charitable Gaming. Community Good. for helping to fund artist-led projects!