What began as an ambitious dream has finally come to a bittersweet conclusion.

Corey Guilbault looked entirely calm as he mingled with supporters at the 15 Keys DVD release party — a smile on his face, backed by a quiet expression of gratitude.

The writer, producer and director of the locally made movie took time out from the party, held Aug. 13 at SRO, to reflect on the experience from start to finish.

Sitting at the patio table was a person unrecognizable from the one who dared to vision making a full-length action film fresh out of a Hodgkin’s Lymphoma diagnosis.

The thin guy with no hair and more bubbling determination than he knew what to do with had been replaced by a fit, shaggy-haired gentleman with a humble attitude.

He spoke honestly and candidly about the the film-making process — from the community support he received, to the joy of making new friends, to the struggles that surfaced along the way.

Those were just all minor details though. The truly memorable part of the conversation came when the 26-year-old leaned back against his wire chair and spoke about the source of his inspiration.

Guilbault stressed countless times that he never wanted to “play the cancer card.” All the young movie-maker did was state the facts.

Yes, he had cancer. Yes, it inspired him to do something that would leave a lasting impression. Yes, it afforded him the time to be able to focus on his passion. Yes, it dramatically changed what he perceived as possible.

“You can do anything you want,” he said. “The stars are only so far.”

With one project under his belt, Guilbault said he’s learned a lot. Moving forward, he’s going to keep those lessons in mind.

“It’s really cool to be growing,” he said.

Guilbault said he discovered more elements of the filming process that will bring his next project to the next level — creating something that comes closer to the glossy standard most movie-goers want.

While Guilbault said he is pleased with what a “handful of people from Sudbury have done,” there is always room for improvement.

“I feel I can do better,” he said. “As an artist, I feel I want to perfect myself the best I can.”

Work has already started for Luxeon, another full-length film where Guilbault himself plays the hero. Like everyone else, he auditioned for the role. Now, he is feeling the stress of living up to the character — and dealing with his fear of heights. After debuting on the film scene while simultaneously beating disease, the next set of challenges can hardly be that bad.

To pick up or rent a DVD copy of 15 Keys, stop by Tin Can Alley on Lasalle Boulevard. The film can also be purchased from 15keysmovie.com.

For more information on Guilbault and his upcoming work, visit hbentertainment.ca.