Latest news with #TelefilmCanada
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Preserving the Past and Powering the Future of Canadian Animation: Inside the NFB and Telefilm's Industry-Leading Support Strategies
At a time when independent and international animation are more influential than ever, two of Canada's key cultural institutions — the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) and Telefilm Canada — are taking bold steps to reinforce the country's status as one of the world's most influential and celebrated animation creation hubs. Guided by visionary leadership, these organizations are not only preserving Canada's legacy in animated storytelling but actively empowering the next wave of creators. More from Variety Immersive Domes, Checkered-Eared Rabbits and a New Platform: Hungary to Showcase 111 Years of Animation as Annecy Country of Honor Animation and Heart: The Directors of Gkids Pick-Up 'Little Amélie' Reflect on Collaborative Spirit in Bringing 'The Character of Rain' to Screen Annecy Contender 'Death Does Not Exist' by Félix Dufour-Laperrière Gets Political: 'There's Urgency to Redistribute Wealth' At the heart of this renaissance are two executives leading with conviction and clarity: Suzanne Guèvremont, government film commissioner and chairperson of the NFB, and Julie Roy, executive director and CEO of Telefilm Canada. Their shared mission is both cultural and economic: to foster innovation, champion Canadian voices and ensure those voices are heard around the world. Building a National Legacy, One Frame at a Time 'The NFB is a creation house,' says Guèvremont. 'From the idea to the screen, we engage with our filmmakers from the very beginning all the way to distribution and audience engagement.' With more than 86 years of experience and over 14,000 titles in its collection, 7,000 of which are available free on the NFB isn't just producing films, it's safeguarding Canada's audiovisual heritage. Guèvremont sees this archive as 'a beautiful family album,' one that speaks to the country's cultural identity and evolution. 'We want [our films] to be timely but at the same time timeless,' she explains. 'So in 10 years, when we revisit a film, it tells us what was going on in Canada at that time; what were we thinking about, why was this story important?' This long view is central to the NFB's approach. It supports not just emerging artists but also those with decades of experience. 'There is emulation between both,' says Guèvremont. 'Experienced filmmakers are provoked by the innovations of newcomers, and emerging creators benefit from the wisdom of veterans.' A Strategic Vision for the Future The NFB's recently unveiled 2025–2028 Strategic Plan underlines this dual commitment to heritage and innovation. The four pillars – shaping the NFB for next generations, fostering a culture of creativity, elevating awareness of the NFB and expanding audiences – are a call to action. 'In this moment of uncertainty,' Guèvremont says, 'the role of inspiring and meaningful storytelling has never been more important as a means of protecting and ensuring the survival of our cultural sovereignty and identity.' The plan also underscores the NFB's commitment to Indigenous narrative sovereignty, environmental and ethical sustainability and equity for underrepresented communities. Telefilm Canada: A Strategic Partner in Animation's Ascent On the production and market side, Julie Roy emphasizes Telefilm Canada's essential role in supporting animation as both a cultural force and an export-ready industry. 'Animation is not a genre, it's a cornerstone of our cultural and economic impact,' Roy says. 'Telefilm is proud to help shape its future.' That future is being built on strong foundations. From globally recognized titles like the Oscar-nominated 'The Breadwinner' to recent domestic box office successes such as 'Katak' and 'Zoopocalypse,' Canadian animation is increasingly turning heads internationally. Four Telefilm-backed features will appear at this year's Annecy Festival, including Félix Dufour-Laperrière's 'Death Does Not Exist,' Eric San aka Kid Koala's 'Space Cadet,' Zaven Najjar's 'Allah is Not Obliged,' and Pete and Seth Scriver's 'Endless Cookie.' In short-term goals, Roy highlights a focus on projects with 'strong audience potential and market readiness,' particularly those aimed at young Canadians. 'Ensuring the next generation grows up with stories that reflect their identity, values and lived experiences is a clear priority for us.' Long-term, animation is seen as a powerful export vehicle. 'It travels well across borders and cultures,' Roy notes. That's why Telefilm is investing heavily in initiatives that connect Canadian creators with global markets, including First Look, which introduces Canadian films in post-production to U.S. sales agents and festival programmers. Co-Productions as Creative Bridges International and domestic co-productions are another vital component of both organizations' strategies. 'Co-productions are, at their core, collaborations between Canada and other countries,' Roy explains. 'They allow for shared risks and benefits, diversified funding and access to wider audiences.' Telefilm facilitates these partnerships at high-profile industry events, hosting the Canada Pavilion at international festivals, and co-priming networking opportunities at Annecy with the NFB. 'We're helping to build bridges that lead to impactful co-productions and long-term growth for Canadian audiovisual storytelling.' Guèvremont agrees: 'When we engage in co-productions, we want to be involved from the early stages. It's about relationships, learning experiences and joining forces to create something unique.' Recent international co-productions from the NFB include 'Miserable Miracle' (with Japan and France) and 'Affairs of the Art' by Joanna Quinn – who will receive an honorary Cristal at this year's Annecy – a U.K.-Canada collaboration that earned an Oscar nomination. Bringing Canadian Stories to the World For both organizations, the job doesn't end at production. Telefilm's National Marketing Program covers up to 75% of promotional expenses for funded projects. Its Audience Engagement initiative recently supported 19 films with over 60 events across nine provinces. The NFB, meanwhile, has a fully integrated pipeline. 'We have in-house teams for marketing, distribution and audience engagement,' says Guèvremont. 'We follow through from the initial idea until the film reaches platforms like PBS, Netflix or receives community screenings.' The reach is profound. According to Guèvremont, the NFB has had 78 Oscar nominations, 38 of which were for animated shorts, making it the third most nominated entity in that category after Disney and MGM. 'That's not just a fun fact,' she says. 'It reflects the cultural impact we've had globally.' Annecy: A Showcase for Canadian Talent This year's Annecy Festival will see Canada making a major splash. Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski's 'The Girl Who Cried Pearls' will premiere during the opening ceremony, and four other shorts, including 'Hairy Legs' by Andrea Dorfman, 'Fusion' by Richard Reeves, 'The Gnawer of Rocks' by Louise Flaherty and 'Bread Will Walk' by Alex Boya, are in official competition. Meanwhile, Telefilm and the NFB will co-host the panel Investing in the Future: Canadian Animation at the Forefront, focusing on how public funding fuels creativity and international success. 'It's not just about us executives talking,' says Guèvremont. 'We're making space for creators to tell their own stories.' A Culture of Continuity and Creation The hallmark of both organizations is continuity. Guèvremont describes the NFB as a 'family,' where artists' careers are supported at every stage. 'You're now part of our family album forever,' she tells filmmakers. Roy echoes this sentiment: 'We strive to meet creators where they are, supporting a diversity of creative visions, storytelling approaches and business models.' It's a dynamic vision, one built not only on legacy and funding but on imagination, innovation and impact. In the words of Guèvremont: 'In a world searching for clarity and meaning, the NFB will always be here, crafting essential stories that matter for a Canada ready to imagine what comes next.' And with the committed partnership of Telefilm Canada, those stories are reaching audiences at home and abroad, defining not just Canadian animation, but Canadian identity itself. Best of Variety 25 Hollywood Legends Who Deserve an Honorary Oscar New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week Emmy Predictions: Animated Program — Can Netflix Score Big With 'Arcane,' 'Devil May Cry' and the Final Season of 'Big Mouth?'
Canada Standard
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Canada Standard
The NFB at the 2025 Annecy International Animation Film Festival. An opening-night film, three shorts in official competition, activities at the film market and more.
May 28, 2025 - Montreal - National Film Board of Canada (NFB) The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is back at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival (June 8-14), with a strong presence throughout the event. Three NFB short films have been selected for the official competition, including the eagerly awaited The Girl Who Cried Pearls ( La jeune fille qui pleurait des perles ) by the Oscar-nominated duo of Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski ( Madame Tutli-Putli ). It will screen as a world premiere on the festival's opening night. The NFB will also be taking part in the Annecy International Animation Film Market (MIFA). The NFB at the 2025 Annecy festival The Girl Who Cried Pearls ( La jeune fille qui pleurait des perles ) by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski (opening-night film, official competition, world premiere) Two other films in official competition: Bread Will Walk ( Le pain se lve ) by Alex Boya and Hairy Legs ( Poil aux jambes ) by Andrea Dorfman MIFA: Telefilm Canada / NFB networking event and panel on Canadian animation, with Suzanne Guvremont, Government Film Commissioner and Chairperson of the NFB, in attendance SHORT FILMS - OFFICIAL COMPETITION The Girl Who Cried Pearls (La jeune fille qui pleurait des perles) by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski (NFB, 16 min) - OPENING-NIGHT FILM AND WORLD PREMIERE Press kit: First screening: Sunday, June 8, 8:30 p.m. (Short Films Official 1) A haunting fable about a girl overwhelmed by sorrow, the boy who loves her, and how greed leads good hearts to wicked deeds. The film was presented at a Work in Progress at Annecy in 2023. With the voice of: Colm Feore. Original Music: Patrick Watson. Sound Designer: Olivier Calvert. Artistic Director: Brigitte Henry. Bread Will Walk by Alex Boya (NFB, 11 min 18 s) Press kit: First screening: Friday, June 13, 3:30 p.m. (Short Films Official 6) A devoted sister flees with her brother, a benevolent, bread-turned zombie. A mob pursues, mouths agape. Streets twist into mazes, reason dissolves, hunger reigns. Can love defy appetite? The film was just featured as part of the Directors' Fortnight in Cannes. Actor Jay Baruchel voices all the characters in the original English version. Hairy Legs (Poil aux jambes) by Andrea Dorfman (NFB, 17 min) Press kit: First screening: Wednesday, June 11, 3:30 p.m. (Short Films Official 4) Deciding not to shave her legs at 13 led a young Andrea Dorfman to question and ultimately defy society's expectations. The film received an Honourable Mention for the DGC Award for Best Canadian Animation at the Ottawa International Animation Festival (2024). MIFA Telefilm Canada / NFB networking event: Canada, Your Next Animation Partner Tuesday, June 10, 7 to 9 p.m. This soiree will underscore the presence of Canadian animation at Annecy and provide opportunities to develop new partnerships. With Suzanne Guvremont, NFB Chairperson, and Julie Roy, Executive Director and CEO of Telefilm Canada, in attendance. By invitation only. Panel - Investing in the Future: Canadian Animation at the Forefront Wednesday, June 11, 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. This panel will bring together leaders from the Canadian animation industry as well as filmmakers presenting their projects. With Suzanne Guvremont of the NFB and filmmakers Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski, among others, in attendance. WOMEN AND ANIMATION, 10 YEARS Thursday, June 12, 5:30 p.m. Affairs of the Art (L'art dans le sang) by Joanna Quinn (Beryl Productions International Ltd/NFB, 2021, 16 min 23 s) How to Be at Home ( la maison) by Andrea Dorfman (NFB, 2021, 4 min 51 s) HONORARY CRISTAL RECIPIENT JOANNA QUINN The NFB congratulates filmmaker Joanna Quinn, who this year is a recipient of the Annecy Festival's prestigious Honorary Cristal. She will also lead a captivating masterclass during the festival, talking about her passion for drawing and animation, and sharing secrets of how she brings her characters to life. - 30 - Stay Connected Online Screening Room: NFB Facebook | NFB X | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo Curator's perspective | Director's notes About the NFB
Yahoo
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Telefilm Cancels Canada House Presence at SXSW Amid Political Tensions
Telefilm Canada, the Canadian federal government's film financer, has cancelled its Canada House event at the 2025 South by Southwest Conference and Festival amid cross-border political tensions. Canada House at the Austin, Texas media festival has long been a meeting hub for Canadian content producers, musicians, film distributors and other industry players looking to network, forge international sales and secure funding from foreign partners. More from The Hollywood Reporter AP Will Remain Banned From White House Press Pool Following "Gulf of Mexico" Dispute Berlin According to...'Paul' Director Denis Côté Sadie Sink Sings to Save the World in Trailer for Rock Opera 'O'Dessa' But SXSW this year coincides with a threat of a 25 percent tariff on Canadian and Mexican exports to the U.S. from the Trump administration. 'Through the Canada House, Telefilm relies on partnerships to ensure financial viability. Unfortunately, due to the withdrawal of key financial partners, we have had to make the difficult decision to pause the Canada House, as we could not sustain the same level of investments,' Telefilm Canada said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. The Canadian film financier had no comment on the reasons for the withdrawal of support by traditional Canada House partners. Telefilm Canada hosts similar Canadian industry pavilions to showcase homegrown content and talent at the European Film Market in Berlin, the Cannes Film Festival, MIPTV and MIPCOM and the Toronto Film Festival, among other events. Among the backers to pull support for Canada House at SXSW this year — generally by taking space in the pavilion — is the Canadian Independent Music Association, a professional organization for the Canadian independent music industry. At the same time, Telefilm Canada will continue to help fund the Canadian Innovation Lounge at the 2025 SXSW festival. 'Telefilm remains committed to championing Canadian talent and celebrating their achievements at SXSW. We will continue to be present, supporting Canadian teams whose films/projects are selected, and engaging with the industry at the Canadian Innovation Lounge,' the federal government agency said in its statement. Best of The Hollywood Reporter How the Warner Brothers Got Their Film Business Started Meet the World Builders: Hollywood's Top Physical Production Executives of 2023 Men in Blazers, Hollywood's Favorite Soccer Podcast, Aims for a Global Empire
Yahoo
14-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Canada Focus Unveiled for Locarno Pro's First Look Initiative
First Look, the works-in-progress initiative of the Locarno Film Festival's Locarno Pro program, will put the spotlight on Canadian cinema this year. First Look has emerged as a key post-production platform for international arthouse projects. Over the years, it has supported films from such countries as Spain, the U.K., Colombia, Mexico, Chile, Brazil, Israel, Poland, the Baltic states, Portugal, Serbia, Switzerland, and Germany. Its 14th edition, in collaboration with Telefilm Canada, will take place during the 78th Locarno Film Festival, which runs Aug. 6-16. Taking place Aug. 8-10, First Look will showcase six Canadian films currently in post-production. The selected projects will be presented by their producers to an audience of global industry professionals, including sales agents, buyers, festival programmers, and representatives from post-production funding organizations. Producers will also have the opportunity to feature their projects in the festival's Online Digital Library, accessible exclusively for accredited industry participants. More from The Hollywood Reporter Wild, Weird and Bloody: The Berlinale Shines a Light on Forgotten German Genre Films of the '70s Berlin: Shark-Meets-Serial Killer Movie 'Dangerous Animals' Sells Wide (Exclusive) Kahlil Joseph Brings 'BLKNWS' to Berlin: "It's Always Been in Flux - It Was Never Meant to Be Static" 'This year's focus highlights Canada's rich tradition of cinematic excellence and its long-standing connection with the Locarno Film Festival,' organizers said. 'Last year alone featured three Canadian productions in the festival's Pardi di Domani strand. They were Gender Reveal by Mo Matton, Like What Would Sorrow Look (Chou He Zhuang) by Hao Zhou, and Days Before the Death of Nicky (Jours avant la mort de Nicky) by Denis Côté. In 2023, Quebec screenwriter, actor and director Eric K. Boulianne received the Pardi di Domani best direction award for Making Babies (Faire un enfant), plus the festival welcomed Canadian filmmaker Matthew Rankin as part of the Pardi di Domani jury. 'It is absolutely thrilling to dedicate this year's First Look to Canadian film productions,' said Giona A. Nazzaro, artistic director of the Locarno Film Festival. 'This is something we have been working on for quite some time now; more and more Canadian filmmakers are on the cutting edge in their formal explorations of the possibilities of media. Locarno has always been close to Canadian artists and I'm sure that this First Look will open the doors to a whole new generation and perception of Canadian filmmaking in all its rich diversity of tradition and languages and forms.' Markus Duffner, director of Locarno Pro, added: 'This initiative remains a cornerstone of our mission to support the final stages of promising films and help propel the international careers of emerging filmmakers forward. Our enduring collaboration with Telefilm Canada reinforces our commitment to helping Canadian production companies make a meaningful impact on the global stage.' Julie Roy, executive director and CEO of Telefilm Canada, said about the First Look focus on Canada: 'Our country has a prime opportunity to showcase and export its bold storytelling and artistic innovation on the global stage at Locarno Film Festival. We rely on the strength of our relationships with film festivals like Locarno to spotlight Canadian talent and their films for international advantages while expanding collaborations and creating new opportunities.' Producers can apply through Locarno Pro until April 19. To be eligible for selection, they must provide a rough cut of at least 60 minutes at any stage in the post-production process. The principal production company for the film must be Canadian. As is tradition, a jury of international festival directors and curators will award several prizes. The selection, along with the jury members, will be unveiled in July. Best of The Hollywood Reporter The Best Anti-Fascist Films of All Time Dinosaurs, Zombies and More 'Wicked': The Most Anticipated Movies of 2025 From 'A Complete Unknown' to 'Selena' to 'Ray': 33 Notable Music Biopics
