How to be a Model: Synopsis

A smart and ironic, behind-the-scenes documentary of fashion modeling depicting a pivotal year in the life of 27 year old Canadian fashion model Peggi LePage. Following the work and life of international model Peggi Lepage, from New York to Paris and Toronto, filmmaker (and ex-model) Allison Beda demystifies the modeling profession by mapping out the 12 steps on the road to success! But modeling is addictive and Beda herself is drawn back in to the world of her subjects, re-experiencing firsthand its allure, but also its pitfalls. Drawing on interviews with agents, former models and even Peggi's mother (who is protective, but supportive) Beda ultimately tests the limits of Peggi's resolve. Their divergent perspectives begin to drive a wedge in their relationship and Peggi threatens to withdraw from the project.
--The end result is a revealing guide to being a model, filmmaker and friend
(Diane Burgess, Vancouver International Film Festival)

Bonus Features:
Director & Composer interviews
Production stills

Accolades:

Awards:
Best International Documentary Runner Up -Austrailian Int Film Fest.
Don Haig Award Nominee

Festivals:
  Vancouver Int Film Festival
  Victoria Int Film Festival
  GirlFest Hawaii Int Film Festival
  Reel To Reel Int Film Festival
  Atlantic Int. Film Festival

Press Reviews

VANCOUVER COURIER |
The movie is a surprisingly candid and sympathetic look at women in the modeling industry. The amount of work and struggle for even a modicum of success is a far cry from the champagne and A-list treatment one might automatically think of when the term "model" gets tossed into a conversation. From agency advice to portfolio tips it's a veritable how-to for any one seeking information on the business, yet the film still remaining vicariously entertaining.
--By Emily Kendy 'Vancouver courier'

THE VANCOUVER PROVINCE |
Allison Beda never realized how intoxicating modelling could be until, camera in hand, she revisited her old profession. While making How to be a Model, which screens at the Vancouver International Film Festival tonight (9:30 p.m., Granville), the Vancouver filmmaker was asked to return to the catwalk, which she did with surprising excitement. "I didn't even know I wanted to do it again," Beda says. "Yes, I did get into it again. It's addictive." Beda's brief return to modelling is a small part of her documentary. The focus is on her 12-step guide to the profession and interviews with current models, particularly her friend Peggi Lepage, who allowed Beda's camera to follow her during the supposed final year of her modelling career. The result is an intriguing inside look, filled with insight and shattered stereotypes. It works because Beda clearly likes the women she's interviewing. While she sees the problems inherent in the modelling world, she also understands its appeal.
--David Spaner- 'The Vancouver Province'

FEMINIST REVIEW-NEW YORK |
How to be a Model (A 12 Step Plan) is everything you didn’t anticipate…
Laced with humorous sarcasm, tears and new beginnings, How to be a Model (A 12 Step Plan) demystifies the unforgiving world of modeling, while showcasing the enlightening journeys of career models as well as Beda’s transition into the more rewarding art of filmmaking.
--Review by Michelle Tooker

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