“The Picnic” was Pat Edwards first attempt at filmmaking. The idea for the film was inspired by an instrumental track composed by Beatle George Harrison. The track called, “Drilling a Hole” appeared on an obscure album from the late 60’s entitled, "Wonderwall”. The story depicts the deteriorating relationship between the male and female characters in an entertaining and comedic way. The classic slapstick style was chosen to maintain the light hearted approach.
Shot in the summer of 1979 in Super 8mm black and white film, “The Picnic” was ultimately blown up to 16mm where sepia-tone was added to create the proper feel for that particular era. “The Picnic” was Edwards' motivation to continue working in a creative capacity within the film and video industry. It also was his inspiration to learn more about filmmaking and gave him the impetus to enroll into the Algonquin College Film Production Program. “The Picnic” was accepted for competition in the prestigious Yorkton Film Festival and was nominated Best Short Drama. It has had several theatrical screenings and has been nationally broadcast on numerous occasions. Pat Edwards