SYNOPSIS

Heart of the Rockies is a 3-part ½-hour documentary series that details Bazil’s struggles to heal his heart so he can travel by horseback into the Alberta Rockies; rather than the alternative which would be a very sedentary retirement. He believes his cardiologist will give him a new lease on life, enabling him to explore hundreds of kilometres of mountainous wilderness on horseback.

During his expeditions Bazil shares the history, customs and culture of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. He travels with his lifelong friend, 89-year-old Cree Elder Tom Wanyandie, who suffers from arthritis but is determined to keep riding the historic trails. The mountain men impart a deeper understanding of how generations of yesteryear connected with the mountains of this regions.

The documentary reveals a rich exposé detailing a simpler way of life on the trail and on the trapline. The production infuses hope, sharing the spirit of how two seniors overcome their physical challenges to carry on a way of life that they both love. The production divulges an intriguing story, featuring a little-known history and distinctive culture of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains.

2023 Awards: “Heart of the Rockies” was nominated for Best Documentary Series (non-fiction under 30 min) for Alberta Film and Television Rosie Awards.
Susan Feddema-Leonard, Producer and Heather Devoe, Executive Producer for the Canadian Rockies Stories.
“Heart of the Rockies” People & Peaks Productions

2023 Awards: “Heart of the Rockies” was nominated for Best Narrator (non-fiction under 30 min) for Alberta Film and Television Rosie Awards.
Bazil Leonard, Narrator for the Canadian Rockies Stories.
“Heart of the Rockies” People & Peaks Productions