MICHAEL JOHN HAMM

March 12,1953– May 16,2023

With apple trees in full bloom, our beautiful boy slapped on his Frame 30 hat, slid into his favorite pair of jeans, signature cowboy boots, and took his seat on a rocket ship headed for the stars. Typewriter in tow, the journey will be documented in his next film, titled “To Be Continued”.

MJH. Filmmaker. Producer/Director/Writer. Entrepreneur. Mentor. Philanthropist. Pioneer. Hippy. Cowboy. Passionate about politics, climate change, classic cars, filmmaking, journalism, philosophy, history, Michael encouraged long discussions with friends (and strangers) on the family porch, where everyone was always welcome.

Born in Toronto, Michael moved to Edmonton in 1978, after completing his M.A. in Political Science at the University of Waterloo (1977). His first writing gig was commissioned by ACCESS Television - a 13-part half-hour series for the 75th anniversary of Alberta - and he then became a member of the Writer’s Guild of Canada (WGC).

On January 28, 1980, he launched Frame 30 Film Productions Ltd. with headquarters located on Whyte Avenue for more than 40 years. One location. One philosophy: “Hire the best and always put the money on the screen.” Specializing in high end commercial production, Frame 30 was a force, producing national and international films that swept awards shows across North America. Michael was also an innovator, pioneering new film techniques, both in-camera and in post-production.

Together since 1999, Michael married his best friend, Kerrie Long, in 2018. This dynamic duo was inseparable, and unstoppable. They produced documentaries, spoken word films, promotional videos, and Michael continued to direct/write hundreds of television commercials and music videos under the Frame 30 banner. Oh, and they programmed and produced a little event called the Edmonton International Film Festival for nearly two decades. Diagnosed with cancer in December, 2022, our legendary boy chose to saddle yet another bronc and ride, ride, ride. Spur that beast, he did. With grace, laughter and dignity.

Mom, Doris Lorraine Hamm (nee: Bond) turned 97 this year and lives in Oakville, Ontario. Predeceased by his father, John Emmanuel Hamm in 1998. Six children in this blended family are: Krystal MacLellan, Zachary Hamm, Kailla MacLellan, Kathleen Hamm, Colter Hamm and Sydney Moule. Two sisters are Cheryl (Peter) Bailey and Alex (Wayne) Anderson.

Michael was absolutely committed to safety on set. Always. In lieu of flowers, consider making a memorial donation to Slates for Sarah - a cause which Michael, and Frame 30 Productions, was incredibly passionate about: www.safetyforsarah.com/the-foundation

A Celebration of Life to take place in September - details TBD.