“The best Canadian film this year is one that was unanimously acclaimed by the judges across all of its categories. Director Jay Macmillan leads the viewers so eloquently into his personal journey that his experience transcends the screen and becomes the viewers’ own. The editing is nothing short of brilliant, mixing deeply personal archival footage and soundscapes in a way that is so deeply moving that it will stay with you forever. Stunning cinematography, patient storytelling, and an unbelievable story make Sonder one of the most compelling films of this year’s festival.”

— Darcy Hennessey Turenne, jury member, 2022 Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival

“With stunning use of archival footage and photography chronicling a rich family history, director Jay MacMillan retraces the steps of his parents who perished in a remote valley of Nepal during the country’s devastating 2015 earthquake. In his skillfully edited film, Sonder, Jay reconciles his pain along his parent’s final journey, discovering the universal power of shared love and loss.”

— Susan Beraza, jury member, 2021 Banff Mountain Film Festival

“Jay is the complete package. Incredible storyteller. Unbelievable problem solver and an absolute joy to work with. To put it simply, he’s one of the most talented people I’ve ever worked with.”  

— Ron Goldenberg, NBA Marketing and Business Solutions

“Jay Mac has a rare combination of not only natural storytelling talent but also the heart and soul to see it all through with meticulous detail in the edit bay. His collaborative vision on our NatGeo / Sony Everest film ‘THE GHOSTS ABOVE’ kept evolving with fresh ideas and positivity to the very end, so much so we named him a co-director!”

— Renan Ozturk, National Geographic photographer + Co-founder of Camp4 Collective

“Never have I witnessed someone handle the deep tumultuous trenches of editing with such a critical eye for story and style, such calm attention to detail, such a respect for everyone involved in the process. Jay Macmillian has forever changed what it means to me to work with a multi-faceted filmmaker and collaborator. He has re-set the bar.” 

— Taylor Rees, Sony Alpha photographer + Director of The Ghosts Above

“A storyteller to his core, Jay Macmillan has graced us with his superhuman work ethic, positive attitude and dedication to the craft for over five years.”

— Dave Mossop, Founder of Sherpas Cinema

"Jay is an incredible editor no matter the medium. This year we asked him to edit on two different podcasts, a format he hadn't worked in before, and he brought that same attention to detail and thoughtful storytelling he is known for in the visual world." 

— Chris Kelly, Co-founder Kelly&Kelly Inc.

“Jay is seemingly tireless as an artist, it's very inspiring as a fellow creative and always a joy to work with him.” 

— Jacob Yoffee, Composer on Loved By All and Into The Mind

“With such a musical editing style, Jay Macmillan was a dream to work with as a composer. His nuanced taste in music, inspired the score and facilitated a creative process that allowed for exploration and experimentation.”

— Logan Nelson, Film Composer on The Ghosts Above

“Jay Macmillan, you worked your ass off, and we couldn't have done it without you, you're a champ and a massive talent.”

— Mitchell Scott, Kootenay Mountain Culture Magazine