On Screen Manitoba

Fri. Feb 12 + Sat. Feb 13 | 7:00 PM
$5 ADMISSION

Twice a year the Cinematheque is host to a membership screening featuring a selection of the newest short films and videos in distribution at the Winnipeg Film Group.

**Please join us for a post-screening reception at the Kingshead Pub on February 12th starting at 8:30 pm!

Here is the full list of films being screen for this special event!

TATTOO STEP
by Mike Maryniuk | 1:15 mins. | 2008 | Animation

FRAGMENTS
by Kevin Nikkel | 18:00 mins. | 2009 | Drama

IKWÉ
by Caroline Monnet | 4:30 mins. | 2009 | Experimental / Fantasy

SITKA
by Olga Zikrata | 4:45 mins. | 2009 | Experimental

LOVING THE BOMB
by Alison Davis | 4:00 mins. | 2009 | Animation

BELT BUCKLE / QUONSET HUT
by Terry Mialkowsky | 1:30 mins. | 2009 | Comedy

STATIC
by Tyler Funk | 2:30 mins. | 2009 | Experimental

TRUCE
by Cam Patterson | 16:30 mins. | 2010 | Drama

MAINTENANCE MAN
by Roger Boyer | 7:30 mins. | 2009 | Drama

THE SNOWBANK: A WINNIPEG STORY
by Cindy Murdoch | 2:30 mins. | 2009 | Comedy

LAZER GHOSTS 2: RETURN TO LASER COVE
by Stven Kostanski | 9:00 mins. | 2008 | Comedy/Sci-fi

B.C. is sweetening its foreign production tax credit and effects bonus, while also offering a new video game development incentive.

The B.C. government proposes to increase the Production Services labor-based credit from 25% to 33%; with the qualified labor expenditure cap rising from 48% to 60%.

In a boost for the gaming industry, a new Interactive Digital Media tax credit for video game development will be launched this fall, offering a 17.5% rebate on B.C. labor costs.

The DAVE (Digital Animation or Visual Effects) tax credit will also be increased, from 15% to 17.5%.

The film industry in B.C. has been lobbying for an improved incentive since Ontario and Quebec announced wide-ranging 25% credits back in early summer 2009.

Peter Leitch, chair of the Motion Picture Production Industry Association of B.C. and president of North Shore Studios, says that while he would have liked to see a more lucrative film program announced, this is a positive step.

"Our objective was never to match Ontario, we think what they did isn't necessarily sustainable in the long term," he says. "This is a starting point to build on."

Leitch says that the tax credit increase, combined with B.C.'s other competitive advantages, will work to the province's advantage.

"We have fantastic crews and cast, infrastructure, locations and the same time zone as L.A., so we think that will weigh in our favor," he adds.

But not everyone in the local industry thinks the increase is enough to stop production from heading east.

Shawn Williamson, partner at Brightlight Pictures, told the Vancouver Sun that he is disappointed because an extra 8% isn't enough to give the province an edge over Ontario when you crunch the numbers. He also points out that the announcement does nothing for indigenous producers, as the basic domestic credit still sits at 35%.

B.C.'s production industry has faced a massive drop in activity in recent months as a result of more lucrative tax credits in other jurisdictions. The Winter Olympics has also kept productions away due to difficulties with shooting in the city and housing talent and crew.

Vancouver Film Studios president Pete Mitchell notes that this is the time of year when U.S. pilots and big movie projects are gearing up for production in B.C. and that hasn't happened so far this year. "It's been very quiet," he says.

In the next couple of weeks, American studios will be finalizing their summer shooting locations, so the local industry will quickly find out if B.C.'s tax credit increase is sweetened enough to impact their decision-making.

The B.C. tax credit proposals will be presented to the legislature in the March 2 budget for approval. The tax credit improvements are expected to become effective after Feb. 28. The video game development credit will come into effect for projects beginning after Aug. 31.

By Claudia Garcia de la Huerta

When the news hit last week that the National Film Board’s Winnipeg office would be undergoing a massive downsizing, Manitoba’s screen based industry was in shock. Not only for the loss of 4 dedicated employees but also what this would mean in the long-term for our industry.

The Winnipeg Free Press reported that the shake-up is intended to “broaden the reach of the NFB in the Prairies and to develop expertise in multi-platform digital production in the West”, according to the statement by Cindy Witten, director general of the NFB’s English Program.

The NFB office will effectively close its doors to the public February 27th. When it re-opens, whether it’s still at the Market Avenue location or somewhere else, the office will be considerably smaller. The staff will include two digital media producers, one marketing manager and a “heavy presence” of the Executive Producer.

On Screen Manitoba’s Executive Director Tara Walker says this news is very disappointing, “It will mean reduced access to the tools and expertise that support emerging to established documentary filmmakers and animators. This represents a very real loss to our community.”

The history of the NFB in Manitoba is full and vibrant with countless success stories. You only need to mention names like Cordell Barker, Richard Condie or John Paskevich

Under the NFB’s proposed new model, administrative duties will be consolidated in the West. This means everything will fall under the North West Centre based out of Edmonton. In addition, a small office will open in Saskatchewan, which will also fall under this new jurisdiction. The North West Centre originally covered Alberta and the Northwest Territories and is well known for its work with many of Canada’s most distinguished First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists.

David Christensen is the Executive Producer of the North West Centre. The producer, director and writer has quite a few documentaries under his belt, including “The Mirror”(“Lo specchio”) which is having its U.S. premiere this weekend at The Museum of Modern Art in New York City. He essentially replaces outgoing Manitoba NFB Executive Director Derek Mazur.

Christensen has been in Winnipeg this week meeting with various industry professionals and associations like On Screen Manitoba. He agrees that it is unfortunate that the infrastructure Manitoba has enjoyed for so long will no longer exist but he says it was inevitable. “The NFB has not had an increase in its funding since the early 90’s. Our purchasing power is at the same level it was in the mid 90’s. By streamlining our offices we can put more money into production—where it’s needed.”

Christensen says he also sees this as an opportunity to reinvigorate the Manitoba community. The fact that digital media producers will now make up the NFB staff of industry professionals should not be something to be scared of, “This doesn’t mean we’re abandoning linear filmmakers because we’re not. This is an opportunity to make contact with those in the industry who have felt, for a long time now, that the Board has been closed to them.”

Christensen also says that he doesn’t want the creative content community to feel abandoned. He says he does not want to see the NFB turn into an organization that forces documentary makers and animators to shell out for the “7-hundred-dollar cup of coffee”. Christensen says he will make a concerted effort to be in the Winnipeg office as much as possible and if not him, then North West Centre producer, Bonnie Thompson.

“It’s up to me to make sure this community continues to be served,” says Christensen. After all is said and done, he says he wants the community to know that he understands their concerns, “I’m not a bureaucrat that’s come into the Board; I’m a filmmaker that’s come into the Board.”

For all you film buffs, here's your chance to shine!

Date: Thursday, 25 February 2010
Time: 19:00 - 22:00
Location: Kings Head Pub

Get your company team together and put your movie trivia skills to the test! This first annual "Movie Trivia Night" is a fundraiser for Freeze Frame/Storyline FX Inc. and will help promote this year's Freeze Frame International Film Festival!

Entry fee is $100 per team, with a maximum of four members per team. Only 20 teams can enter and tickets are going fast so make sure you confirm your attendance ASAP!

Doors open at 7:00, with the trivia contest starting at 7:30. Let's get out as many film, television, and media production people here in Winnipeg to help support this great cause. Prizes and bragging rights for the winning team!

For your convenience...

Direct Deposit is now available to Canadian Television Fund (CTF) clients.

Access your CTF payments faster by registering to receive disbursements directly in your bank account.

Details and an application form are available on e-Telefilm and on the CTF website at www.ctf-fct.ca.

Seven new titles from Frantic Films, totaling 64 hours of factual programming, have been added to Cineflix International's portfolio.

Included in the deal are the home-renovation series House Poor (13x30'), makeover and lifestyle programs Rags to Red Carpet (13x30') and Princess (13x60') and two seasons of the food shows Pitchin' In (26x30') and The Opener (19x60'). Further titles are the documentary Surviving the Future (1x60') and stand-up comedy Winnipeg Comedy Festival (5x60).

Diane Rankin, Cineflix International’s head of acquisitions, commented: "The opportunity to acquire this number of original titles from such a great producer is rare. This is the start of new relationship that we're very excited about and is part of our strategy to build key partnerships as a distributor with top production houses worldwide."

Jamie Brown, the CEO of Frantic Films, added: "Cineflix International has a very strong reputation for sales in the international market. We are excited to collaborate with them on the international distribution of our most recent programming and feel confident our shows are in very good hands."

is designed to support a local, Manitoba filmmaker who has been practicing for at least five years to further develop their careers by providing them with added profile and with funding to support self-directed development work.

This award includes $10,000 in cash, and $5,000 in services and a full user membership from the Winnipeg Film Group. Additionally, the award-recipient will be provided with a special, retrospective screening at the Winnipeg Film Group’s Cinematheque.

There is one award annually. A filmmaker can receive the Manitoba Film Hothouse Award only once.

* APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday, February 12 @ 4 PM
* DOWNLOAD: Application Guidelines / Form

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

• Eligible applicants are practicing Manitoba filmmakers who have been working as creators / directors in film or video for a minimum of five years and who have produced a recognizable body of independent work that has been presented within a professional context.

• Applicants should be able to articulate the self-directed development work that they seek to engage in over a minimum four month period supported by this award, including any project-related expenses. Examples of eligible self-directed development work include – but are not limited to – research, experimentation, script writing and process-based development.

• Applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, and have lived in Manitoba for at least one year prior to submitting an application for this award.

• Applicants must be over 18 years of age and cannot be full-time students.

• Applicants can hold a Manitoba Film Hothouse Award concurrent with a Production Fund and / or a Marketing Fund Award.

THE SELECTION PROCESS

The award recipient will be selected by a committee of experienced independent filmmakers and other film professionals such as programmers, curators and arts administrators.

The jury will base its decision on the following criteria:

1. The historic artistic achievements of the filmmaker, as demonstrated by their history of professional presentation, awards and other distinctions, as well as the overall quality of their body of work.

2. The artistic merit of the self-directed work proposed and its connection to the filmmaker’s artistic career trajectory.

3. The capacity of the resources of this award to assist the filmmaker in their overall career development objectives.

Inquiries about this program can be directed to Cecilia Araneda, Executive Director at cecilia@winnipegfilmgroup.com or 925-3451.

The Winnipeg Film Group acknowledges the generous funding of the Province of Manitoba for the Manitoba Film Hothouse Award for Creative Development.

HRSDC opens EI Special Benefits to the Self-Employed

In a

issued just before Christmas, the federal government announced that Royal Assent has been given to the Fairness for the Self-Employed Act.

This is legislation that the cultural sector has been pressing for, for many years. Self-employed Canadians will be able to voluntarily opt into the EI program effective January 31, 2010, in order to take advantage of the EI special benefits. "Special benefits provided to self-employed individuals will mirror those currently available to salaried employees under the EI program."

Regulations are still being written, but the commitment has been made and the option for the self-employed to access a social security net as do employees will soon be in place. "Self employed Canadians who choose to take advantage of EI special benefits will be required to opt into the program at least one year prior to claiming benefits, and will be responsible for making premium payments for the tax year in which they apply to the program. [...] As a transitional measure those who register on or before April 1, 2010, will be able to collect benefits as early as January 1, 2011."

As of January 31, 2010, it will be possible to register with the EI program through the Service Canada website.

The Gimli Film Festival (GFF) is celebrating its 10th year from July 21 – 25, 2010. As a non-profit charitable organization GFF is dedicated to screening exceptional films and nurturing an enthusiastic audience for new and extraordinary world cinema.

The festival is now accepting entries for the 2010 program, the deadline is April 1.

Highlights of the Gimli Film Festival

• GFF showcases new Canadian and International films
• Awards: Best Film, two short film awards
• Nightly beach screenings to audiences of 700-1,000 with a 35-foot screen that rises out of the lake
• Three indoor theatre venues
• Invited filmmakers participate in Q&A sessions and industry sessions.
• Daily parties and networking events.

All filmmakers of accepted films would be invited to attend the GFF; details to be discussed upon acceptance.

CanWest Best Manitoba Short Film Award
Will be presented at the “Celebrating Manitoba Filmmakers” Reception. All short films from Manitoba filmmakers accepted into the festival will be considered. Cash Prize

Short Film for Best Artistic Achievement
All short films accepted into the festival will be considered. Cash prize.

Best Film 2010
All features and documentaries will be eligible for this juried award. Cash Prize

Eligibility:
Submissions may be fiction, documentary, animation or experimental. A short film must be less then 60 minutes long. Films must be completed after August 2007.

Please visit our website, www.gimlifilm.com , for more information and to download a submission form, or contact the program department at 204-642-8846 or email at info@gimlifilm.com

In the Shadow of the Company (Curated by Kevin Nikkel)
Fri. Feb 5 to Sun. Feb 7, 2010 | Multiple screenings and events

In the Shadow of the Company is a program of films and events that offers a critical viewing of an integral part of Canadian, Manitoban and Winnipeg history. The stories of the Hudson's Bay are vast, the history is long and the territory is massive. There are also many voices that tell the stories of this place. How do we interpret these histories to make meaning or to make entertainment? How do different filmmakers make sense of the topic in different ways? In the end, the fragmentary views of this history amount to different versions of the Hudson's Bay, from documentary realism to dramatic recreation, mythologizing and satire, or a hybrid of film genres. (Kevin Nikkel)

The Winnipeg Film Group gratefully acknowledges the funding support of The Beaver: Canada's History Magazine, Manitoba Film and Music and Saint Margaret's Anglican Church for sponsoring this series.

Special Full Series Pass: $50 non-members/ $35 members (Available for purchase through our online store).

THE BISHOP WHO ATE HIS BOOTS (INTRO BY BOB LOWER)
Fri. Feb. 5 at 7:00 PM

This film is a remarkable work by former Winnipegger and pioneer Canadian cinematographer Richard Stringer. Before Stringer's sudden passing in 2007, he was working on this film about about his grandparents, Bishop Isaac O. Stringer and his wife Sadie who were adventurous missionaries who were stationed in Canada's Arctic and faced incredible obstacles and challenges. The film explores the history of this Anglican missionary, from the late 1800s and early 20th century, including the bizarre and harrowing 51-day journey of Bishop Isaac in the frozen wastes of the Canadian Northwest through the use of rare photos and archival footage.

NANOOK OF THE NORTH (LIVE SCORE PERFORMED BY NATHAN REIMER, MARK PENER, KURT YOUNGBLOOD AND NIKI KOMAKSIUTIKSAK)
Fri. Feb 5 at 8:30 PM

Robert Flaherty's 1922 film, Nanook of the North is a widely shown and praised silent documentary which described a year in the life of Nanook and his family, and showed the ways of trading, hunting, fishing and migrations used by a group barely touched by industrial technologies. Special presentation featuring a live musical score by Nathan Reimer and Mark Penner (of Moses Mayes), Kurt Youngblood and Inuit throat singer Nikki Komaksiutiksak. (Special Event Admission is $10 for members / $12 non-members)

WORKSHOP: A Master Class with John Walker
Sat Feb 6, 2010 - Noon - 3:00 PM

In this special master class, acclaimed Canadian documentarian John Walker will present his views on genre, his approach to working with historical material within both dramatic and documentary structures.

PANEL DISCUSSION: FROM THE SHADOWS OF THE VAULTS
Sat. Feb 6 at 3:30 PM

Using a screening of rare archival footage piece, (Adventures on the Bay from 1934 - with original score by Nathan Reimer and Mark Penner of local group Moses Mayes) from the Hudson's Bay archives, this panel discussion will explore current issues facing filmmakers and historians. Panel discussion with moderator Kevin Nikkel, Jody Baltessen of the City of Winnipeg Archives, Peter Geller, author of the book Northern Exposures: Photographing and filming the Canadian North, 1920-1945 filmmaker Paula Kelly, director of Souvenirs and more.

PASSAGE (SPECIAL PRESENTATION BY DIRECTOR JOHN WALKER)
Sat. Feb 6 at 7:00 PM

Passage is a story of incredible sacrifice, a stunning distortion of the truth and single-minded obsession. It challenges the way we look at history.

SHORTS FROM THE NORTH
Sun. Feb 7 at 7:00 PM

A selection of short films which all interpret the north through dramatic, satirical and documentary themes. Featuring Man Of The Northwest, The Chronicler, Adventures On The Bay, and The Other Side Of The Ledger: An Indian View of The Hudson's Bay Company.

UPCOMING FILMS

CABIN FEVER: 101 DALMATIANS (FREE ADMISSION)
Sun. Feb 7 at 2:00 PM

The original version of the Disney classic is the story of the wicked villainess Cruella de Ville who kidnaps a hundred dalmatians with the goal of creating her own line of personal fur coats.

MARK LEWIS: THE CINEMA OF INVENTION
Wed. Feb 10 at 7:00 PM
Thu. Feb 11 at 7:00 PM

Featuring two short documentaries (Back-story and Cinema Museum) from one of Canada's most renowned and internationally acclaimed artists working in digital and film moving image media and photography.

COLLAPSE
Wed. Feb 10 at 9:00 PM
Thu. Feb 11 at 9:00 PM
Fri. Feb 12 at 9:00 PM
Sat. Feb 13 at 9:00 PM
Sun. Feb 14 at 7:00 PM

Collapse is a powerful and terrifying documentary film about a reporter and author named Michael Rupert who eerily predicted the current economic crisis.

Everyone knows that their is a huge shift in the way people consume content. With increasingly busier lives people want convenience which means they want to view content on their time, wherever they may be. This shift in consumer behaviour was addressed at ALL ACCESS: The Digital Incubator. Below is an article in Playback about American content becoming more available to Canadian viewers online.

The most interesting thing said in the article, is a comment that eventually the CMF will contribute fewer dollars to broadcaster envelopes and more to indie producers. Looks like a backwards shift from broadcasters running the show to the producers calling the shots. It just makes sense; smaller business are more in touch with their markets and can create content fast and distribute it to their viewers quickly via the web for cheaper.

Just more confirmation that people in the traditional film & television industry need to makes some major changes in strategy in order to stay afloat.

US Contact Could Swamp Canada

Funding agencies and other industry players need to do more to adapt to YouTube and iTunes, which are driving Canadian Internet users to American content, or risk the eventual marginalization of Canadian content online.

That stark warning came this week at Interactive Ontario's "What Is Broadcast" panel in Toronto, where digital consultant Alan Sawyer warned U.S. content is increasingly being "broadcast into" Canada via streaming technologies, and all under the CRTC's radar.

"The threat is an influx of U.S. content that will dwarf, or obliterate the Canadian industry, if we don't take measures to survive."

Brady Gilchrist, president of Admodo Group, agreed that, with "shadow broadcasters" like Facebook and Twitter already directing content to Canada, Canadians had only to unhook their cable or satellite TV service to end the Canadian broadcast system.

"If people pull the plug on that [digital set-top box], it's game over," said Gilchrist, who added he already ended his cable service to watch TV at home via the Internet and iTunes.

Stéphane Cardin, VP of policy and stakeholder relations at the Canadian Television Fund, said the upcoming Canada Media Fund aims to shore up Canadian content producers looking to prosper in an increasingly border-less digital world.

"We're going to support innovation. We'll be making significant financial contributions," he told the panel.

Cardin predicted the CMF will eventually direct fewer dollars to broadcaster envelopes and more to indie producers as the latter innovate and gain a presence online.

"As we evolve, if you are a distributor and secure a sizeable audience, you will make your way into the system, over time," he told digital content producers at the gathering.

And while CTF didn't fund domestic content without a Canadian broadcast licence, Cardin said he could see Canadian producers that make product for the world market eventually securing CMF funding with only an international broadcast presale and no Canadian broadcaster yet on board.

Congratulations to Adam Smoluk who won the Future Leaders of Manitoba award in the Arts category. Adam holds a position at Film Training Manitoba as Community Outreach and Programs Staff and has recently completed his second feature length film Foodland produced by julijette inc. Juliette Hagopian recognized Adam's talent and dedication to the film community in Manitoba and nominated him for the award. 

This past Thursday evening at Fort Garry Place, a crowd of more then 500 Manitoba business professionals and community leaders applauded as the Future Leaders of Manitoba Council (FLMC) announced the winners of the 2010 awards.
 
This event gives prominent business leaders the opportunity to honour professionals who are committed to contributing to the social and economic growth of Manitoba.
 
The awards ceremony was established by FLMC in partnership with the Business Council of Manitoba, the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and was hosted by Hot 103's Ace Burpee and the City of Winnipeg's Mayor Sam Katz.

Among the winners were Sam Pellettieri, 34, Chief Investment Officer at Wellington West, in the Professional/Business Category, and Kevin Chief, 34, coordinator, University of Winnipeg’s Innovative Learning Program, for Community Service. Winnipeg based writer-director Adam Smoluk, 29, won in the Arts category.

“I’m absolutely honoured to have received this award and I'm so thankful to the people and organizations that have supported and nominated me,” Smoluk said after receiving the award.

Smoluk’s first feature film Horsethieves won the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at the Winnipeg International Film Festival. He is an alumnus of the British American Drama Academy, National Screen Institute of Canada and the Canadian Screen Training Centre and is a member of the Winnipeg Film Group and ACTRA Manitoba. In 2009 he was shortlisted for the prestigious John Hirsch Award for Most Promising Manitoba Writer. Smoluk serves as community outreach coordinator at Film Training Manitoba and his second feature film Foodland is set to premiere in 2010.

The Future Leaders of Manitoba Council:
www.flmc.mb.ca
 
The Winnipeg Sun:
www.winnipegsun.com
 
For more information please contact:
foodlandthefilm@gmail.com

Freeze Frame 2010
3 theatres, 10 days, over 25 films, 9 workshops and lots of guest filmmakers.
March 4 - 13, 2010

Multiple venues, films from around the world, many workshops and lots of guest artists. Lots to do and see. Lots to coordinate too! We couldn’t do it without our valuable volunteers; the heart and soul of our organization.

If you would like to be a part of our exciting Festival, please contact our staff at 943-5341, 1-866-543-3378 or email: info@freezeframeonline.org

Volunteering is a perfect way to make your resume stand out!

Volunteer Opportunities:

Freeze Frame is currently seeking a Youth Video Competition Awards Event Coordinator

Make the participants in Reel Views and Wee Reel feel like stars for an evening! Designed to celebrate the creativity of young filmmakers, these events are hosted by a local celebrity and has local guest artists handing out awards. This position requires
advance planning two to three months prior to the Awards event at the end of May.

In conjunction with the Youth Video Competition Coordinator and the Communications and Community Outreach Coordinator,
you will:

• coordinate those giving out prizes
• contact the host with schedule and list of guests
• rewrite the script for the event and contact the host with script for the event
• organize prizes and ensure they are attractively packaged for distribution
• draw up the program for the evening, ensuring that all nominees are listed
• ensure sponsors are adequately thanked using slides and verbal recognition
• facilitate media interviews with nominees and winners.

Other Opportunities:

• Office Assistant
• Driver
• Animation Station Assistant
• Workshop Assistant
• Cinema Staff (Door Person, Usher, Ticket Sales)
• Hospitality
• Youth Jury Coordinator
• Voice-Over Readers
• Festival Photographer/videographer

Let’s show the world that Manitoba's Screen-based Industry is open for business!

Looking for international trade and investment opportunities? Mark October 20, 2010 on your calendar.

From October 20-22, 2010, the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce in partnership with ANIM, Manitoba’s bilingual trade agency, will host one of the largest and most important international business forums in Canada. The event is called Centrallia 2010. It’s a business to business match-making event that will bring more than 500 SMEs from around the world to Winnipeg. Your business needs to be there. There will never be a better or more cost effective way to expand your business internationally.

Key features of Centrallia 2010:

* 2 ½ days of match-making meetings
* 12 pre-programmed, one-on-one meetings with businesses of your choice
* 500 businesses from multiple sectors
* Abundant opportunities to meet and network
* Various guest speakers including Ken Blanchard, best-selling author of The One-Minute Manager

Register now and take advantage of early bird pricing by visiting www.centrallia.com. Space is limited so register early to attract the kinds of businesses that can take your company to the next level.

Centrallia 2010 is a unique opportunity to develop your business internationally. Don’t miss it.

Congratulations to Farpoint Films celebrating a decade of top-notch filmmaking! Click here to check out their 10 year Anniversary reel.

Farpoint Films is known for their television shows Warriors: TKO (produced through their division MicroBus Pictures) airing on APTN and House Party on the Comedy Network. They also produced the feature film Wild Cherry and recently serviced the upcoming horror flick Mother's Day.

February 1st, 2010 marks Farpoint's 10th year in film and television production. Owners Kyle & John are thrilled their partnership has given rise to scores of award-winning television and film programs over the past decade. The guys look forward to growing the company further and producing many more compelling projects for local, national, and international audiences in the years ahead.

For more information please visit their website www.farpointfilms.com

ALL ACCESS: The Digital Incubator was brought to you by On Screen Manitoba in partnership with New Media Manitoba.

Thank you to all the delegates who attended ALL ACCESS: The Digital Incubator! Without all of you there the event would not have been the same, it would have been less interactive.

For those of you who couldn't make the event, we won't let you miss out on what happened.

Keynote speaker Alexander Manu (Innospa International) kicked off the day with his presentation entitled 'Current Media' where he spoke about mediums as modes of individual action rather than channels, that allow individuals to create, manage and distribute content. The day was shared with four other speakers, Rochelle Grayson (Social Media, Social Gaming and Online Entertainment Executive), Mark Bishop (marblemedia), Ken Bautista (CIE: Seek Your Own Proof) and Norm Bolen (CFTPA). They covered everything from how to monetize digital media to creating a national digital strategy for Canada. The afternoon started off with a panel discussion moderated by Rogue Nation's Ryan FitzGerald, featuring interactive digital media projects by Manitoba companies.

There were also many networking opportunities; including round table sessions with guest speakers. We also had 'Trans-meetings' where members of the interactive digital media community and film & television community met one on one in a speed dating style.

The day was enlightening, inspiring and groundbreaking. This was the first time our two associations (OSM & NMM) partnered on an event.

DOWNLOADS
ALL ACCESS: The Digital Incubator Program
Alexander Manu's DISRUPTIVE BUSINESS: Desire, Innovation and the Re-Design of Business
Rochelle Grayson's Digital Media Monetization: What People Pay For

Visit www.allaccessosm.com often over the next coming weeks for videos and pictures from the event.

And because you just can't get enough, stay tuned for ALL ACCESS: TV 2010 at the end of April - date TBA.

ALL ACCESS: The Digital Incubator was presented with generous support from:

Telefilm Canada
Midcan
Fairmont Winnipeg
Manitoba Innovation, Energy and Mines
Government of Canada
Destination Winnipeg
Manitoba Trade and Investment
CFTPA
CTF
TRLabs
William F. White International
RBC

focus | ckuw 95.9 fm | mondays | 3 pm

this week's guest: Kevin Nikkel

This is Kevin's second time on the show. We will discuss IN THE SHADOW OF THE COMPANY: Films of the Hudson's Bay Company. Kevin curated the films from this program, that will play at the Cinematheque.

host: Matthew Etches.

focus is a radio show that interviews winnipeg filmmakers, and explores their passions and influences.

future guests:

Feb 8th, 2010: Cam Patterson

Feb 15th, 2010: Joe Novak

join the facebook group.

listen online.

If you have any comments, or would like to be on the show, email focus.ckuw@gmail.com

Freeze Frame, Winnipeg’s Media Arts Centre and the 14th annual International Film Festival for Kids of All Ages, is pleased to present a NEW ‘Traveling Animation Station’ series.

Supported by Cultural Capital of Canada 2010 and the Winnipeg Arts Council, Freeze Frame will be touring Winnipeg and Southern Manitoba, visiting as many communities as possible during various events, such as Carnivals, Family Fun Days, Children and Youth programs etc.

The Traveling Animation Station is a bilingual, informal and fun hands-on workshop that will be presented free of charge to the public. It is designed to encourage children, teens and adults to explore the world of stop motion animation. Kids of all ages, including the very young, will create characters out of plasticine, paper and other recycled materials. The characters are brought to life through a series of digital photos, that are edited and played back. A selection of the animated shorts will be posted on the Freeze Frame web site.

“The Animation Station is one of our most popular and widely accessible activities. We’re definitely having fun, but we’re also showing children and families how films are made,” says Freeze Frame Executive Director, Anna Fontaine.

The Animation Station is warm-up to the actual annual international film festival. The Festival features films made for young audiences from the world over and lots of opportunity for hands-on workshops under the direction of guest filmmakers. Participants at each Traveling Animation Station location will have the chance to win a Family Pass for the Festival. Held at Portage Place, Globe Cinema and the Cinemathèque from March 4th to the 13th, 2010 Freeze Frame’s Fourteenth Annual International Film Festival for Kids of All Ages is sure to be a highlight for schools and families alike.

To have Freeze Frame’s Traveling Animation Station come to your community event contact us toll free at: 1-866- 543-3378 or by email: info@freezeframeonline.org.

MASTER CLASS WITH JOHN WALKER
A Special Presentation With DOC WINNIPEG
(A part of the film weekend of panels and screenings @ THE CINEMATHEQUE - IN THE SHADOW OF THE COMPANY)

ONLINE REGISTRATION AVAILABLE

* Dates: Sat Feb 6 (12 PM – 3 PM)
* Fee: $25 / members | $40 / non-members
* Instructor: John Walker

For more information on workshops, please contact the Training & Outreach Programs Coordinator at 925-3450 or darcy@winnipegfilmgroup.com

Bending Genre: Hybrid Documentaries W/ JOHN WALKER
As filmmakers push the boundaries of genre and form, documentary hybrids, features documentaries that borrow and adapt, bend and remake the notion of non-fiction filmmaking have emerged. From Guy Maddin's MY WINNIPEG to John Greyson's FIG TREES, hybrid films are increasingly popular with directors and audiences alike. John Walker's PASSAGE is among this new form. In this master class, Walker will present his views on genre, his approach to working with historical material within both dramatic and documentary structures that resists recreation, and how he broke both fiction and non-fiction ideas apart to create the stunning, innovative and provocative work that is PASSAGE. Walker will review the process of making PASSAGE from its original proposal to the aesthetic choices that resulted in casting actors to present historical facts in a documentary feature, and his unique twist on those facts. He will present clips from the film and comment about scene structure, story editing, pacing and making his approach work in the editing suite.

Background ON John Walker:
A pioneering documentary Canadian cinematographer and filmmaker John Walker launched his career behind the camera in 1970 as a photographer based in Montreal. He began working as a cinematographer for Crawley Films in 1975 and over the years has worked on a superb body of work beginning with his first film, the multiple award-winning Chambers: Tracks and Gestures (about Canadian artist Jack Chambers) produced by Atlantis Films in 1981. The following year, his passionate commitment to the documentary form led him to co-found the Canadian Independent Film Caucus (now the Documentary Organization of Canada), a lobby group for point-of-view documentaries. Walker has credits on more than sixty films as producer, director or cinematographer many which have received international acclaim and have been widely broadcast and screened at many of the world’s major film festivals. Walker’s numerous international honours include a Genie Award for Best Feature Length Documentary (Strand: Under the Dark Cloth, 1990). He has also earned five Gemini Awards and his most recent film Passage has been released to wide acclaim. (Film Reference Library)

PASSAGE ( BLU RAY PREMIERE )
Dir. John Walker | 2009 | 108 min. | Canada
Sat./ Feb. 6 / 7:00 PM
THE CINEMATHEQUE, 100 ARTHUR STREET

INTRODUCED BY JOHN WALKER
It was news that shook the English-speaking world. Celebrated British explorer Sir John Franklin and his crew of 128 men had perished in the Arctic ice during an ill-fated attempt to discover the Northwest Passage. More shocking, they had descended into madness and cannibalism. A Scottish doctor John Rae, had discovered what six years of searching by British, Americans, French, and Russian had failed to do. With PASSAGE, filmmaker John Walker employs an innovative approach to structuring the incredible multilayered story of John Rae and brings it to vibrant life using a unique blend of dramatic action, and behind-the-scenes documentary footage. PASSAGE is a story of incredible sacrifice, stunning distortion of the truth and single-minded obsession. It challenges the way we look at history.

”Provocative… no one who has any knowledge or feelings about either Franklin or Rae should miss seeing it.” Russell Potter

“Nothing in this daring film is straightforward. As much as it chronicles Rae's journey across the Arctic, Passage also traces a journey across time, an encounter with the Victorian world that will mesmerize viewers." (Michael Robinson, Humanities Department, University of Hartford)

Our workshops are held in various venues in the downtown area so please visit our website, www.filmtraining.mb.ca, for more information on how to find us, and how to register for these workshops. You can also call us at 989-9669!

**Film Training Manitoba is pleased to offer training at a significantly reduced cost to the Manitoba Film industry.

Dr. Linda Seger Screenwriting Workshop
February 10th - 14th | 9:30 am – 5 pm | $300
Location | Burn’s Family Classroom, 218 - 100 Arthur Street

Not able to attend this workshop for the full 5 days? FTM is pleased to offer a rate of $70.00/day for those interested.

This intensive five-day screenwriting course is designed to focus on integral elements of the screenwriting work process. Beneficial for beginning, mid-career, or established screenwriters, it provides a comprehensive immersion in contemporary screenwriting craft. The workshop will be divided into modules of lectures, demonstrations and exercises.

Day One: Focus on the creative process and story development
Day Two: Learn how to pitch your story and create your scenes
Day Three: Develop your theme and create your characters
Day Four: Explore conflict and dialogue
Day Five: Understanding the transformational arc of a story, and the art of adaptation

Scissor Lift Certification
February 13th | 9 am – 5 pm | $100
Location | Safety Services Manitoba, 3 – 1680 Notre Dame Avenue

Participants are taught to identify specific health and safety hazards associated with operating man lifts. Training includes a complete review of fall protection requirements, pre-shift equipment inspection, work area survey requirements, and safe operating procedures. Instruction in these safety concepts applied to the operation of this complex piece of machinery will provide participants with certification and help reduce workplace accidents.

Winter Driving
February 21st | 8 am – 3 pm | $150
Location | Safety Services Manitoba & Canad Inns Stadium, 3 - 1680 Notre Dame Ave & 1465 Maroons Rd.

Improve your winter driving skills with this practical, hands-on course that teaches the basics of winter driving as well as evasive techniques for skid control. Drive the Skid Monster and learn valuable skills to better prepare you for Manitoba’s winter road conditions. This course will be divided into three hours of classroom driving techniques theory and three hours of hands-on in-vehicle instruction.

Flagsperson Training
February 24th | 6 pm – 9 pm | $50
Location | Red River College, Princess Street Campus, Room P315

This course will familiarize participants with the provincial laws governing traffic control. Flagsperson training deals with developing an understanding of who is responsible for establishing traffic control on a film set, the duties of a flagsperson on set, the dress and proper equipment necessary for proper flagging, and the proper techniques for directing traffic.

Online marketing and promotion of Canadian films via social media tools

While taking part in Ciné-Québec -- an annual networking event for Quebec film industry representatives -- Telefilm Canada announced the launch of Web-Ciné 360, a pilot initiative aimed at encouraging the integration of online marketing and the use of social media tools into distribution strategies for Canadian films ahead of the films’ theatrical release. In order to accelerate the industry’s adoption of these new interactive tools intended to strengthen film promotion and marketing, Telefilm will offer financial assistance as well as training to distributors submitting eligible projects. In its pilot phase, the initiative targets French-language feature films.

Distributors can submit their project until April 2, 2010. For further details regarding eligibility criteria, please visit Telefilm Canada’s website.

“Social media tools and the web have enormous potential when it comes to promoting Canadian films,” stated Michel Pradier, Telefilm Canada’s Director of Project Financing. “Encouraging distributors to make better use of online marketing tool should produce convincing box-office results. Throughout the rollout of this new initiative, we will work closely with industry representatives to help them develop or perfect their knowledge of social media, to help them maximize their projects’ impact.”

“Web-Ciné 360 is a splendid initiative from Telefilm that meets distributors’ need to put in place effective web strategies in support of their films’ release,” said Patrick Roy, Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Alliance Vivafilm. “The initiative will allow us to develop strategies earlier in the production cycle, and so achieve better box-office results.”

In its initial stage, Telefilm’s initiative is aimed at distribution companies eligible for the organization’s Marketing Program for French-language Productions, for projects having recently obtained production support. Distributors wishing to benefit from Telefilm support under the Web-Ciné 360 project must include online marketing in their promotional strategy by making use of search engine optimization or web technologies in general; by producing a content-rich website; by creating content for such social media tools as blogs, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube; or by using online advertising. In order to measure the strategies’ efficiency, distributors will be invited to make use of recognized online marketing and web audience analysis tools, and even to use companies with expertise in this area. 

Telefilm Canada is a federal cultural agency dedicated to developing and promoting the Canadian audiovisual industry. Telefilm provides financial support to the private sector to create distinctively Canadian productions that appeal to domestic and international audiences. The Corporation also administers the funding programs of the Canada Feature Film Fund, the Canadian Television Fund and the Canada New Media Fund. Visit www.telefilm.gc.ca.

Implementation of a streamlined structure to expand reach and develop digital expertise in the Prairies.

In keeping with the digital revolution and a rapidly changing audiovisual environment, Cindy Witten, Director General of the English Program of the National Film Board of Canada (NFB), has announced the reorganization of the Prairie Centre to broaden the reach of the NFB in the Prairies and to develop expertise in multi-platform digital production in the West.

The NFB will open a new small office in Saskatchewan and will continue to maintain a strong presence in Winnipeg as a producer. Overall, infrastructure costs will be reduced by consolidating administrative duties for the western provinces in NFB’s Edmonton office. As a result, four positions are being abolished in the Winnipeg office, and two new producers with digital expertise will be hired for the West. 

“The NFB has set ambitious goals for itself in terms of creative and organizational renewal. This is about putting less money into infrastructure and more into digital expertise and programming, while ensuring an increased presence in western Canada,” explained Ms. Witten. “The challenge is considerable, but the technology does make it possible to bring the NFB closer to creators and Canadians, even with limited resources.”

“Production levels will be maintained in the Prairies,” Witten added, “and very likely increase as we explore new forms with the considerable creative talent of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.”

Tom Perlmutter, Government Film Commissioner and Chair of the NFB, noted that “as the country deals with a difficult deficit situation, we need to be smarter about how we use our resources to serve all Canadians better.  It is essential that the many voices and faces of this country continue to be represented. Today it is particularly important that all regions across the country play a role in the digital revolution and have a presence on the online and mobile platforms that are attracting Canadian audiences in ever greater numbers.”  

Over the last few years the National Film Board has taken a leadership role in developing new original works for multi-platform and digital media.  In January 2009 it launched its national online screening room, which to date has generated 3.7 million film views.  Its iPhone application, launched in October, was an immediate hit. There have been more than 527,500 i-Phone screenings to date. Last week the NFB launched one of the first Canadian on-line HD offers and a limited offer of 3D films.

About the NFB

Canada’s public film producer and distributor, the National Film Board of Canada creates social-issue documentaries, auteur animation, alternative drama and digital content that provide the world with a unique Canadian perspective. The NFB is expanding the vocabulary of 21st-century cinema and breaking new ground in form and content through community filmmaking projects, cross-platform media, programs for emerging filmmakers, stereoscopic animation – and more. It works in collaboration with creative filmmakers and co-producers in every region of Canada, with Aboriginal and culturally diverse communities, as well as partners around the world. Since the NFB’s founding in 1939, it has created over 13,000 productions and won over 5,000 awards, including 12 Oscars and more than 90 Genies. In 2009, Neighbours/Voisins by NFB animation founder Norman McLaren was added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. The NFB’s new website features over 1,400 productions online, and its iPhone app has become one of the most popular and talked about downloads. Visit NFB.ca today and start watching.

Frantic Films presents…The CBC Winnipeg Comedy Festival television series is now showing on Monday nights (9:00pm Winnipeg time). Check out these one-hour stand-up comedy specials taped live last spring, starring some of North America’s best comedic talent. www.franticfilms.com

The Winnipeg-shot High Life (Co-produced by Buffalo Gal Pictures) is currently playing in movie theatres across Canada (at Towne Cinema 8 in Winnipeg). This dark comedic heist stars Timothy Olyphant, Joe Anderson, Rossif Sutherland, and Winnipeg’s own Stephen Eric McIntyre. It also features a rockin’ music soundtrack. Support our industry and go see this flick – you won’t be disappointed! www.highlifethemovie.com

Keep Your Head Up Kid: The Don Cherry Story debuts on CBC Television March 28 and 29, 2010. The four-hour mini-series is co-produced by Frantic Films, E1 Entertainment, and 5 for Fighting. It stars Jared Keeso as Don Cherry and Sarah Manninen as Rose Cherry. www.franticfilms.com

Check out this interesting article in The Toronto Star: Will female directors break through the glass ceiling?

OSM Member Danishka Esterhazy is quoted several times in the article on the subject of female directors and the difficulties they face in their profession. Danishka is a director who has just recently finished her first feature film Black Field in 2009.

CALL FOR ENTRIES
63rd FESTIVAL DE CANNES
Cannes, France, May 12 to 23, 2010

CANADIAN PRE-SELECTION SCREENINGS IN MONTRÉAL
February 24 to March 10, 2010
(Feature-length films only)

Telefilm Canada is currently accepting entries for the Canadian Pre-Selection Screenings in Montréal for the 63rd FESTIVAL DE CANNES, including the Official Selection (Competition, Out of Competition, Un Certain Regard), the Directors’ Fortnight and the Semaine de la Critique.

Application Form - Pre-Selection Screenings
Information and registration process

Registration deadline with Telefilm Canada : February 12, 2010

The Cannes Film Festival is the most important festival in the world: close to 40,000 accredited professionals and 4,000 journalists attended the Festival.

The Festival and the parallel sections waive their entry fees for films submitted at the Screenings in Montréal.

Short films will not be screened in Montréal and must be submitted directly to the Festival in Paris. Telefilm Canada will coordinate consolidated shipments to the Selection Committees in Paris. Consult this Call for entries for detailed information.

For further information, contact Céline Pelletier (pelletc@telefilm.gc.ca) by phone at 514 283-6363 or 1 800 567-0890.

Good luck!

Consult the complete list of current calls for entries

CALL FOR ENTRIES
CANADA PAVILION AT MIPTV 2010
Cannes, France, April 12 to 16, 2010

Deadline : February 19, 2010

Telefilm Canada is currently soliciting applications from Canadian production and distribution companies for MIPTV 2010. MIPTV is a major international market for financing, co-producing, buying and selling entertainment across all platforms. It provides you with more contact in the entertainment content business, more exposure and a wider range of distribution platforms than any other industry event anywhere in the world.

Given that the organizer of MIPTV, Reed Midem, has decided to freeze its rental rates for the 2010 year, Telefilm Canada is pleased to announce that the 2009 Canada Pavilion option rates will be kept for 2010.

In 2009, there were 11,500 industry professionals, including 3,800 buyers and 4000 companies from 105 countries. The Canada Pavilion covers a surface area measuring 457 m2 and can accommodate a maximum of 80 companies, making it MIPTV’s largest national pavilion.

NEW IN 2010! The Canada Pavilion offers a special networking activity for companies gathered under its umbrella: Connect with Canada! is part of the official program of MIPTV and available to all market participants.

For more information, visit www.miptv.com

Application form
Information and registration procedure

It pays to use eTelefilm!
Telefilm Canada is expanding the use of its eTelefilm services to include it festival and market activities. We are happy to announce that it is now available. We encourage you to subscribe now to eTelefilm.Note that the validation of the one time process for eTelefilm may take up to 5 business days.

If you are a registered E-Telefilm user, click on the same link and connect directly to eTelefilm.

If the above is not possible, Download, complete and sign the attached participation form.

Should you require additional information, please contact Marie-Claude Viau by e-mail at viaum@telefilm.gc.ca or by phone at (514) 283-0838 ext.: 2009

Consult the complete list of current calls for entries

Congratulations to OSM Members Danishka Esterhazy and Mike Maryniuk who are headed to Cologne, Germany!

Winnipeg filmmakers Jaimz Asmundson, Jeffrey Erbach and Danishka Esterhazy will shortly begin their international artist-in-residence terms in Cologne, Germany, where they will work with the support of the Kölner Filmhaus.

Winnipeg Film Group staff member Mike Maryniuk, an accomplished filmmaker in his own right, will also be on-site in Cologne to support the residents' work and to lead workshops in the DIY filmmaking techniques for which Maryniuk is renowned.

All four filmmakers will have special screenings at the Kölner Filmhaus Kino:

* Wed Feb 3: The short films of Mike Maryniuk, including Bush Wact (2003), Asleep at the Wheel (2005), Fish Arms (2007) and Cattle Call (2009)

* Fri Feb 5: Recent work by Danishka Esterhazy

* Mon Feb 6: The short films of Jaimz Asmundson, including Attack of the 50 Foot Chihuahuas from Outer Space (1999), Liquid Lunch (2004), Drawing Genesis (2006) and Goths! On the Bus! (2009)

* Web Feb 10: Jeffrey Erbach's feature film The Nature of Nicholas (2003)

Following their return to Winnipeg, Asmundson, Erbach and Esterhazy will discuss the work completed during their residency in Cologne at an artist talk session at Cinematheque, Sunday, March 21 at 2 PM (admission is free).

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This international residency is a collaboration between the Kölner Filmhaus and the Winnipeg Film Group. In May, three filmmakers from Cologne will travel to Winnipeg to engage in production and development works supported by the resources of the Winnipeg Film Group.

This international artist exchange is the first of its kind facilitated by the Winnipeg Film Group. It has been developed and coordinated by Cecilia Araneda of the Winnipeg Film Group, and Yvette Krause and Christian Rall of the Kölner Filmhaus, and has been designed to provide both a unique creative development opportunity as well as to support an increased international profile for the selected participants.

The Winnipeg Film Group acknowledges the generous support of the Manitoba Arts Council for this program. Additionally, the individual artists' travel has been generously supported by On Screen Manitoba, the Winnipeg Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.

"Canadians have paid over a billion dollars over the last decade for community TV channels. Cable companies have responded by curtailing access," says the Canadian Association of Community Television Users and Stations.

"The CRTC created these channels so Canadians could learn about broadcasting and produce their own programs," CACTUS spokesperson Catherine Edwards noted. "But cable companies have gutted community TV by closing studios, 'firing' volunteers, and regionalizing programming."

CACTUS is urging Canadians to tell the CRTC to reinstate access as it reviews its community TV policy. "Communities should run these channels, not profit-driven corporations," said Edwards. "But the CRTC needs to hear this from Canadians themselves-before February 1st."

The dead-line for interventions is February 1st. The hearings are in late April. There is more detailed information on the CACTUS web site at cactus.independentmedia.ca. The CRTC public notice can be found at: www.crtc.gc.ca

If you wish to write a letter of support, CACTUS has provided a sample letter which can be downloaded here. It summarizes the issues from the point of view of the production community.

Astral Media The Harold Greenberg Fund is pleased to announce its latest round of funding for 27 new and ongoing projects through its Script Development Program and Equity Investment Program.

Chosen from a record 139 applications (nearly twice the average amount), the most recent selection of supported projects includes a dynamic combination of new stories from old hands and old favourites from new voices.

“New voices are always exciting and, of course, essential to the growth of our industry, but it’s great that we’re also seeing scripts from filmmakers whose success we have shared in the past,” said John Galway, President, English-Language Program, Astral Media The Harold Greenberg Fund. “The fact that we have an established core of capable creative professionals who are continuing to produce work lets us know that we’re succeeding in our efforts to support local talent, and make screenwriting a viable career option in Canada.”

This latest collection of supported scripts includes new projects from recognized industry veterans Sarah Polley (Away From Her) and Michael McGowan (One Week), while Michael Dowse (Fubar) gives us a small-town Newfoundland take on the 2003 Quebec hit La Grande séduction.

Congratulations to the OSM members whose projects were approved this quarter!

In Second Draft:

Kush Kush in the Bush: Bollywood Comes to the Trailer Park

Buffalo Gal Pictures Development Inc., Femmina Films Inc. and Diamonds to Bullets Enterprises Inc.
Screenwriter: Rebecca Sernasie

In Polish & Packaging:

Kosher Sexy

julijette inc. and Jonas Chernick
Screenwriter: Jonas Chernick

For the full list of projects that have received funding please click here.
 

5th ANNUAL WIFTV WOMEN IN FILM FESTIVAL 2010
April 17 - 18, 2010

EXTENDED DEADLINE: January 28, 2010
ENTRY FEES: WIFTV Members $27.04, Non-Members $37.85

New this year: Use our online submission form. Submission criteria and information can be found at www.womeninfilm.ca

Women In Film & Television Vancouver (WIFTV) is pleased to announce that the 5th Annual Women In Film Festival (WIFF) will be presented April 17 & 18th, 2010 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

"Our 2009 festival was a huge success and a huge undertaking. We had great films, great parties, movie stars and plenty of inspirational moments from our multi-talented WIFTV members and the film community.

"Our 2010 film festival will continue to inspire and celebrate the contributions of our members and non-members alike. It will be a more compact version of our festival, as we are also presenting the Women In View Symposium in October 2010" says WIFTV Film Festival Chair, Roslyn Muir.

Highlights of the spring festival include a feature film presentation that will be followed with a panel discussion with the female director, presented by The Creative Women Workshops Association CTV/CAM program. In addition, there will be short film programs, an opening reception as well as networking and pitching opportunities. The festival is produced by WIFTV, an internationally affiliated non-profit society committed to advancing and celebrating women in screen based media.

This year, the Women In Film Festival will accept Canadian and international SHORT FILM submissions (20 minutes maximum) in the following categories: narrative, documentary, new media, music videos, video poems, or experimental shorts.

Submissions featuring strong female characters and stories are encouraged. Eligible films must have THREE of the following (one woman may serve more than one role): a woman as Writer, a woman as Producer, a woman as Director, a woman as D.O.P., a woman as lead Actor, a woman as lead Animator / Editor.

In addition, the Legacy Awards will be presented by festival sponsor, Producer Deboragh Gabler of Legacy Filmworks, to three B.C. filmmaking teams for outstanding achievement in film.

CTV WIDC Career Advancement Module (CAM) ~ Creative Women Workshops Association (producer of the annual Women In the Director's Chair Workshop) will present an intensive career advancement program for four (4) mid-career Canadian women directors. This module focuses on the personal skills needed to achieve success in screen fiction.

For further information, check our website www.womeninfilm.ca, email info@womeninfilm.ca or call 604-685-1152.

WIFTV is an internationally affiliated non-profit society committed to advancing and celebrating women in screen-based media. We are the Vancouver chapter of Women In Film & Television International (WIFTI), which counts more than 10,000 members world-wide.

Our workshops are held in various venues in the downtown area so please visit our website, www.filmtraining.mb.ca, for more information on how to find us, and how to register for these workshops. You can also call us at 989-9669!

**Film Training Manitoba is pleased to offer training at a significantly reduced cost to the Manitoba Film industry.

Scene Study with Ben Davis
January 22nd to the 24th | 10 am – 6 pm | $125
Location | Actor’s Training Centre

Straight from Los Angeles, acting coach Ben Davis will be using the Ivana Chubbuck Technique to take participants through a
scene study workshop.

"After years of going to various acting workshops to hone my directing skills, last year I had the amazing experience of attending a workshop with Ben Davis. I think I learned more in one day than all of the other workshops combined. For my purposes Ben is the perfect coach: he's enthusiastic, funny, extremely focused and very critical. But his criticism is always constructive and comes from a place of passion and belief in his student’s capabilities. I watched in wonder as over and over again he took competent performances and transformed them into riveting, compelling scenes. I'll go to his classes whenever I can."
- Norma Bailey, Director

IATSE 669 Assistant Camera Trainee Course
February 4th to the 7th | 8:30 am – 5 pm | $350
Location | *See full posting on the FTM calendar for more details

The purpose of the camera trainee course is to provide the basic set of skills needed to work on a Western-based union set (BC, AB, SK, & MB). This course is structured to give participants an introduction to cinematography within a union environment. The emphasis will be on the camera department, specifically the duties of a camera trainee who is working towards becoming a 2nd camera assistant. This course will be taught in a combination of lecture and hands on teaching techniques.

Upon successful completion of the assistant trainee course, participants will be accepted into the camera trainee program. The ultimate aim of the trainee program is to produce working 2nd camera assistants in the IATSE 669 union, whose skills and professional workmanship help to create a desirable environment for productions contemplating shooting in Western Canada.

*Please visit our course calendar for more information on the assistant camera trainee course, including eligibility requirements for the course.

Dr. Linda Seger Screenwriting Workshop
February 10th - 14th | 9:30 am – 5 pm | $300
Location | Burn’s Family Classroom, 218 - 100 Arthur Street

This intensive five-day screenwriting course is designed to focus on integral elements of the screenwriting work process. Beneficial for beginning, mid-career, or established screenwriters, it provides a comprehensive immersion in contemporary screenwriting craft. The workshop will be divided into modules of lectures, demonstrations and exercises.

Lift Certification
February 13th | 9 am – 5 pm | $100

Winter Driving
February 21st | 8 am – 3 pm | $150

This past October, John Couchman joined us as our Aboriginal outreach and programs staff. On behalf of FTM, John attends Aboriginal and other community outreach events in Manitoba to promote career opportunities in the film and television industry. He also assists in the guidance and training of the Aboriginal program participants.

John is a proud member of the Sturgeon Lake First Nation in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, and he has extensive training in conflict-resolution, leadership, and community building. John brings with him a unique perspective on issues facing our Aboriginal crewmembers.

We are happy to announce that Allison Bile has accepted the position of training coordinator, replacing Bertha Twin whose last day was on December 18th, 2009.

Allison has been with Film Training Manitoba since 2006, most recently as the office coordinator, and is now overseeing the work experience program. The goal of the work experience program is to provide on-the-job training to both new and established technicians; to expand the number of skilled crewmembers working in the Manitoba film industry, and to address succession planning for production companies, and industry related organizations.

We are also pleased to welcome Irene Bindi to the team as our new administrative assistant. Irene holds an MA in film studies from York University and has worked with film festivals, not-for-profits, and various film organizations across Canada. Irene is FTM’s first contact with the public and we are very happy to welcome her to the team.

For more information on FTM’s training programs, please contact us at:

Film Training Manitoba
100 – 62 Albert Street
Winnipeg, MB R3B 1E9

Ph: (204) 989.9669
TF: 1.866.989.9669
E: info@filmtraining.mb.ca

www.filmtraining.mb.ca

The Board of Directors of the Independent Production Fund (IPF) has approved a new pilot program to fund drama series created for any platform. In recognition of the evolving broadcast environment, the IPF will provide equity financing not only to drama series with a television broadcast licence, but also to scripted drama series that are designed and produced for exploitation on the web.

As the sources of financing for web video without a broadcast licence are very limited, the IPF support is intended to stimulate the growth of new forms of content. This unique contribution to independent producers will help them to explore the potential for high quality, story driven drama with new and innovative narrative forms. As a leading supporter of Canadian drama, the IPF will experiment in partnership with web content developers to determine how good story-telling translates to other platforms. “It will be an exciting learning process for all of us”, stated Charles Ohayon, Chair of the Board of the IPF. “We will help develop best practises to take advantage of the opportunities that the digital platforms provide for new production styles, processes, formats and business models”.

Joining the IPF in this pilot venture is Film Nova Scotia which will provide additional funding targeted for Nova Scotia based creators and producers of web drama. "Film Nova Scotia is excited to partner with the Independent Production Fund on this program to help Producers explore storytelling through new digital platforms", noted Ann Mackenzie, President and CEO.

The IPF is inviting proposals for online drama series at its application deadline of March 31, 2010. Regulations for applicants will be minimal in order to encourage maximum innovation and experimentation. Projects must be webcast on Canadian-owned websites as a “first window” to ensure more Canadian content for Canadian portals. Some of these projects may serve as pilots for traditional television drama, while others may develop their own dedicated online communities and audiences.

The Independent Production Fund was established in 1991 and has invested over $50 M in 229 television drama series and over 300 professional development projects. The IPF works in collaboration with the Cogeco Program Development Fund which will also finance drama series for television in 2010, enabling the IPF to undertake this special pilot program. The IPF is incorporated as a private foundation with charitable status. It operates on interest generated by its $35M endowment, and recoupment from its project investments. An independent Board of Directors representing the industry oversees the operations of the Fund and makes all funding decisions.

Further information and Requests for Proposal Guidelines are available at www.ipf.ca.

Buffalo Gal Pictures co-produced TV series Less than Kind website has launched: www.lessthankind.ca

Play Sheldon’s Run: Yes Sheldon has his very own game! Help him get through his day in three levels of comic mishaps -- fighting the combination of a Winnipeg winter and classmates out to get him.

Follow Blog Girl’s weekly diary. Who is Blog Girl? Come back weekly to read her postings and find out!

Check out the Downloads: there is a HUGE music section that features all of the cool Canadian bands that play in this season’s episodes.

Send an E-Card Mashup. This is your chance to get a sneak peek at scenes from the second season and put together an awesome and hilarious mashup. Send one to a friend to get the word out that Less Than Kind is premiering on HBO Canada [The Movie Network (Eastern Canada) and Movie Central (Western Canada)] February 19th at 8:30 p.m.!

Also, join our group ‘Watch Less Than Kind’ on Facebook and follow Blog Girl on Twitter.

"Just Watch Me!" Berlin Screeningroom
March 2010
Canadian Embassy, Berlin

Submissions Open: 20th January, 2010
Submissions Close: 8th February, 17.00 [EST]

Canadian distributors, sales agents and rights holders are invited to submit content to this pilot initiative, a television sales event at the Canadian Embassy in Berlin designed to promote sales of Canadian film and television content to German broadcasters and to broaden contacts in the German market. The initiative was created by the Embassy of Canada in Berlin and "Just Watch Me!" in collaboration with the Department of Canadian Heritage (Trade Routes program), the Canadian Television Fund and the Canadian Film and Television Production Association (CFTPA).
 
Buyers and programmers from German television networks will be invited to the Embassy to attend a special screening of promotional clips for Canadian films and television programs that will be selected through a juried process.  

Online submissions will be accepted between 20th January and 8th February, 2010. All types of content suitable for broadcast are eligible. This may include but isn't limited to feature length and short film, documentary, animation, dramatic or reality-based television series, children's or arts programming. There is no limit to the production year of the content, however preference is given to content that is relevant to current market tastes.   
 
To submit, visit the web site www.justwatchme.ca to register and upload your promotional trailers (max 2 minutes each) and promotional kits in the specified format.  A maximum of three entries per production company (not per distributor/sales agent) will be accepted.

For more information on the submission and selection process and on how the material will be presented to German buyers, please go to www.justwatchme.ca. The website will also serve to receive submissions for the event and to give registered German buyers password protected access to the selected material after the event.
________________________________________________________

Contacts:  
 
Claudia Seeber
Trade Commissioner
Embassy of Canada
Berlin
Tel: 011-49-30-20312-366
Email: claudia.seeber@international.gc.ca
 
Michael A. Dobbin
Project Consultant "Just Watch Me!"
Tel: 613 314-0331
Email: michael@justwatchme.ca

Century Street Distribution
c/o Leo Dufault
204 510 2835
leo@centurystreet.ca

***Voir message en français ci-dessous ***

The deadlines for applications to two CTF programs are coming up next month. The final closing date for the Digital Media Program is February 1, 2010 and for the Versioning Assistance Stream is February 16, 2010.

The CTF allocates funds to eligible projects in both of these programs on a first come, first served basis until resources are depleted.

Please note that funds from the Digital Media Program allocated to English projects have been fully depleted.

For information about eligibility requirements, please read the guidelines available on the CTF website:

Digital Media Program

Versioning Assistance Guidelines

For questions regarding the application process, please contact the Television Business Unit at Telefilm Canada.

_______________________________________________

Les dates limites pour déposer les demandes à deux programmes du FCT tombent le mois prochain. Pour déposer les demandes au Programme des médias numériques, la date limite est le 1er février 2010; pour le Volet de l’aide au doublage et sous-titrage, la date limite est le 16 février 2010.

Le FCT accorde des fonds aux projets admissibles dans le cadre de ces deux programmes sur une base du premier arrivé, premier servi jusqu’à l’épuisement des ressources. Nous rappelons que les fonds du Programme des médias numériques alloués aux projets en langue anglaise sont entièrement épuisés.

Pour des renseignements sur les critères d’amissibilité, veuillez consulter les Principes directeurs sur le site Web du FCT:

Programme des médias numériques

Principes directeurs de l’Aide au doublage et au sous-titrage

Si vous avez des questions concernant le processus de demande, veuillez communiquer avec l’Unité d’Affaires Télévision à Téléfilm Canada.

CAMERA/EDITOR - OTTAWA

APTN has a career opportunity for an experienced individual who will be responsible for all day-to-day production operations of APTN National News & Current Affairs for the Ottawa News Bureau including shooting, editing and transmitting to Winnipeg News Room.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:
• Shoots interviews, b-roll, stand ups, stock footage, and sequences etc.
• Operates XDCAM, DVCAM VTR’s, Avid Newscutter Nitris DX non-linear edit system
• Logs and digitizes material prior to the edit session
• Organizes material including audio, video, music, graphics titles, effects, clips, bins and sequences within the editing system
• Completes rough and final edit and outputs the final product to tape or to disc
• Coordinates and feeds edited and raw material to the Winnipeg News Room
• Conducts live and live-to-tape double-ender interviews from studio or remote locations
• Performs required dubs to and from all APTN formats
• Completes equipment, tape and broadcast fault reports as required.
• Consults with Winnipeg-based Broadcast Technologists on technical, maintenance and repair issues
• Maintains the videotape/stock footage library and videotape and camera supply inventory for the Ottawa News Bureau

Education/Experience:
• Diploma or certificate from college or university; three to five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination
• Broadcast experience required
• Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, internet and e-mail software, and broadcast industry technology required
• Proof of valid driver's license (driver’s abstract) required
• Shift work and travel are required
• Must be able to carry camera gear
• Knowledge of French and/or at least one Aboriginal language would be an asset
As this position is part of a bargaining unit, the successful candidate will operate under the collective agreement with the Canadian Media Guild.

Remuneration: DOQ/DOE

Please forward your resume quoting Competition 09/10-19 and where you saw this ad, by 3 p.m. (CST), Friday, January 29, 2010 to:

Human Resources
Aboriginal Peoples Television Network
339 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3B 2C3
Fax: 204-943-2368 E-Mail: careers@aptn.ca

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. As an Aboriginal employer we encourage First Nations, Inuit and Métis applicants to apply.

People always say you need to "stop and smell the roses" and this rings very true, especially so on home ground. Far too often we forget to stop and take a minute to appreciate the great abundance of talent we have right here in Manitoba.

That is why it is so great to see our members taking the time to recognize one another. "In a small community like ours, it is important that we support our up and coming talent and that's why I submitted a letter nominating Adam Smoluk for the prestigious Future Leaders of Manitoba Award." Juliette Hagopian (julijette inc.) said about Adam being short listed for the arts category of the FLMA awards.

Juliette acted as producer on the film Adam directed, Foodland, allowing her to observe his talent first hand.

Now thanks to Juliette's nomination, more Manitobans will be aware of the great work that filmmakers such as Adam have been accomplishing in this province. "In the end we need to not only promote directors, but also have them be recognized and awarded for their work."

Read the article below published in the Free Press to learn more about Adam's nomination.

Filmmaker Finalist for Future Leaders of Manitoba Award

Winnipeg based writer-director Adam Smoluk was notified earlier this month that he is a finalist for the Future Leaders of Manitoba Award for the arts. “This is an excellent organization (FLMC) and I’m absolutely honoured to be in the running for this award,” Smoluk said upon learning of his nomination. 

The award was established by The Future Leaders of Manitoba Council in partnership with the Business Council of Manitoba, the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. The awards will be presented on January 28th at the 2010 Annual Awards Reception: Celebrating Exceptional Manitobans.

This event will give prominent business leaders the opportunity to honour young professionals who are contributing to the continued social and economic growth of Manitoba. Young professionals will have an opportunity to be recognized for their contributions in their community building efforts and their commitment to staying in Manitoba.

The arts award recognizes and honours a young Manitoban who is active in the Arts Community.

Smoluk’s first feature film Horsethieves won the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at the Winnipeg International Film Festival. He is an alumnus of the National Screen Institute of Canada and was shortlisted for the prestigious John Hirsch Award for Most Promising Manitoba Writer. Smoluk serves as community outreach coordinator at Film Training Manitoba and his second feature film Foodland is set to premiere in 2010.

The Future Leaders of Manitoba Council:
www.flmc.mb.ca 

For ticket information about the 2010 Annual Awards Reception please contact:
president@flmc.mb.ca

For more information please contact:
foodlandthefilm@gmail.com

Check out the the website for Mother's Day, which shot in Winnipeg last fall and was serviced by Farpoint Films. The site features a Vlog with videos set, along with a message board and chat feature to get the inside scoop on the film.

www.mothersdaythemovie.com

Mother's Day is set to premiere Mother's Day 2010.

From director Darren Lynn Bousman (SAW II, III and IV)
Loosely based on the 1980 Troma cult classic

Synopsis
After a bank robbery gone wrong, three brothers head home...only to discover that their mother lost the house in a foreclosure. The new owners and their guests, gathered for an ill-timed birthday party, become the brothers' unwitting hostages. Their mother and sister arrive, and it soon becomes obvious that Mother will do absolutely anything to protect her children. In one terrifying evening, Mother brilliantly takes control of the situation and masterminds her sons' escape. Sides will be taken, secrets revealed, and sins punished as the hostages struggle to make it through the night.

Congratulations to Farpoint Films and their sub-divison MicroBus Pictures who won awards for:

Director John Barnard's film Lost Bones: In Search of Sitting Bull's Grave won an Accolade Award of Excellence in Television in the states:

www.accoladecompetition.org

And CBC pilot The Flip Side won an "Award of Merit" in the category of "pilot program"

www.accoladecompetition.org

Early Bird Deadline is February 1st, 2010

Final Submission Deadline is February 15th, 2010

The Banff World Television Awards is one of the world’s most prestigious international television program competitions. The 2009 competition attracted more than 800 entries from 30 countries around the world.

The categories awards will be presented at the 31st Banff World Television Festival at the Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff, Alberta, Canada, in June 2010. Our Special Jury Awards this year will include Best Non-Fiction, Best Fiction, Interactive, and Youth & Animation awards. Our International Final Jury will select the winner for the coveted Grand Jury Prize to name this year’s “Best in Show”.

View contest details and submit by clicking here

The Asper School of Business Co-operative Education Program is currently recruiting for Summer 2010 Work Term opportunities. There will be over 100 bright and enthusiastic students representing a variety of business majors seeking work experience this summer. Gain access to tomorrow’s business leaders today by visiting our

website

, calling 204-474-6673 or emailing

Courtney Griffith

.

Post your summer 2010 work term opportunity before February 16th 2010!
_______________________________________________________________________

CELEBRATING CO-OP!

Please join us to celebrate the continuing success of the Asper School of Business Co-op Program!

Thursday, January 28, 2010
Four Points by Sheraton South
2935 Pembina Hwy

5:00 - 6:30 pm 'Speed Greet' - A unique opportunity for you to meet face to face with small groups of students to share insight on your organization and answer questions about future careers.

6:30 - 8:00 pm Cocktail Reception and Awards - Announcing the Asper Co-op Employer of the Year and Asper Co-op Student of the Year!

To RSVP for the Cocktail reception and/or reserve a table for the 'Speed Greet' please contact Jenn Webber by email or phone at 474-7103 before Friday, January 22, 2010.

JOB TITLE: Education and Outreach Coordinator

DEADLINE: January 28, 2010

SCHEDULE: A contract position at 15-20 hours per week. Starting at 15 hrs per week with a flexible schedule. Wage $16.00 per hour. Position to start February 8, 2010.

CONTEXT: Video Pool is a non-profit centre for the professional development of independent artists. Working with existing Video Pool staff in all areas, the Education Coordinator provides individual artists members with affordable education in media arts and beneficial professional development opportunities.

REPORTS TO: Director, Board of Directors

PURPOSE: To provide professional development opportunities for Video Pool members in media arts literacy and to develop skills for the production of independent video, audio and new media artworks.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES:

Develops and manages a variety of workshops for members that respond to prevailing needs/interests.
Creates and manages outreach programs for members of communities who would otherwise not have access to professional media arts education and production tools in collaboration with community organizations.
Manages Video Pool’s production funds.
Promotes Video Pool’s professional development opportunities for artists (workshops, funds, etc.)
Hires instructors, mentors and temporary contract staff (cultural liaison), as required.
Prepares summary reports and grant applications as required.
To undertake any other duties, as appropriate, as required by the Director from time to time.

TASKS - Key tasks and skills include:

Develops collaborative relationships with community partners and program participants
Ensures high quality education and support through considered and effective planning and assessment
Responds to the needs of members and community partners in developing educational and professional development programming
Promoting Video Pool’s education activities
Coordinating workshops
Managing production funds (including calls for submissions, juries, contracting mentors, coordinating meetings and setting timelines)
Communicating with members, workshop attendees, instructors, mentors and fund recipients
Preparing summary reports and grant applications
Overseeing the departmental budget
Maintaining an active network/contact list of capable instructors
Preparing guidelines and reference documents
Supervising contract staff
General advocacy for Video Pool

PERSONAL SPECIFICATION - ATTRIBUTES NEEDED FOR SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE:

Experience working with marginalized communities
Personable, sets clients at ease
Organized and self-directed
Ability to multi-task
Able to explain things clearly
Program/project management experience
Intermediate computer skills (word processing, e-mail, spreadsheets, Final Cut Pro…)
Some familiarity with video production is essential
Administrative skills (record-keeping, budgeting)
Understanding of artist-run centres, the media arts environment

HOW TO APPLY: Please submit cover letter and resume with the subject line 'Re: Programming Coordinator' by e-mail to :

Attn. Hiring Committee
Video Pool Media Arts Centre
300 - 100 Arthur Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3B 1H3

E: vpadmin@videopool.org

We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Video Pool is committed to Employment Equity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.

Over the next three months New Media Manitoba is hosting the most incredible series of iPhone events.

January 22: Adam Saltsman on Developing and Marketing iPhone Games
February 3: Nick Campbell on Designing iPhone Applications and Getting Paid
February 17: Jeff Hughes on Getting your iPhone App on Apple's Top 100 List
March 1 - 5: Big Nerd Ranch, 5-day iPhone Development Bootcamp

From January - March 2010, we're hosting 4 events for designers, developers, entrepreneurs, and businesses to create their own iPhone application and sell it to the world starting with:

GAME GOD
Our first iPhone event begins on January 22, 2010 with the much celebrated pixel game designer Adam Saltsman. Adam has developed and co-created over 13-games both online and for the Apple iPhone and has stirred a media frenzy in such publications as Edge Magazine, IGN, Kotaku, MTV Multiplayer, Boing Boing, and PC Gamer.

On January 22, Adam will share his methodology for creating successful iPhone games that have netted over $500,000 in independent sales. He will describe how he conceptualizes and prototypes games, and his chronic attention to design and sound.

Adam will present a case study for the 2009 hit "Canabalt" that earned him no less 650,000 players in less than 5-days and how his iPhone game "Wurdle" became a top-10 classic on the iTunes Store. He will also share the social media strategy that has attracted oodles of ravenous players from around the world to his gaming multiverse.

This presentation is ideally suited toward game developers, students and educators, ad agencies, creatives, and programmers interested in game development for mobile devices.

Adam's flixel API, an open source flash game library, has been embraced by both beginners and veterans and earned Adam a place on Game Developer Magazine's inaugural Top-50 Developers list alongside Apple's Steve Jobs and Will Wright (Creator of Spore & The Sims).

Cost is $49.95 and includes breakfast.

You may register here
---

DESIGN AN iPHONE APP AND GET PAID
On Wednesday, February 3, Nick Campbell will spend the day deconstructing how to design and get your app started, develop a user interface, find a programmer, and market and sell your iPhone app. Nick will deconstruct how he created a business plan for ShakeItPhoto, an App Store Staff Favourite which turns your iPhone into the perfect Polaroid.

Nick is a regular speaker on the Web 2.0 lecture circuit and maintains a popular blog and podcast at greyscalegorilla.com. Over the course of the day he will unveil a wealth of knowledge that any new or seasoned producer can use to sell their iPhone application including:

- picking a development team if you're a non-programmer
- dealing with contracts
- usability that makes you an Apple staff favourite
- making an app for an international audience
- establishing buzz before launch
- testing and tweaking
- supporting your app after launch
- dealing with Apple
- getting paid

This presentation is ideally suited for designers, recent graduates, and entrepreneurs that have an iPhone idea and are looking for a place to start.

Nick Campbell is a motion designer, and photographer from Chicago. He graduated from the Illinois Institute of Art with a degree in Design and Fine Art. He spent three years at Digital Kitchen, where he animated and designed titles for shows such as True Blood and Dexter and with such clients as HBO, Showtime, Target and most recently with The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien. His creative portfolio can be found at CreamyOrange.com

Cost is $$49.95 and includes breakfast.

You may register here
---

IF YOU BUILD IT, WILL THEY COME?
Everyone has a great moneymaking idea for their iPhone, but in a sea of over 100,000 Apps, how will yours get noticed?

Jeff Hughes brings over 18 years industry passion as a marketer, publisher and keynote speaker. He is the author of 10 technology books and numerous trade press articles on technology and marketing topics and is the author of the upcoming Pearson Education book "iPhone Apps Marketing: Secrets to Selling Your iPhone App."

On February 17, 2009, Jeff will show you case studies for companies and applications he has helped develop iPhone marketing plans for companies that have resulted in hundreds of thousands in sales on the iTunes Store. Throughout the day he will provide step-by-step instruction on how you can achieve similar results including:

- how to get your app into the top 100 on iTunes
- how to define your app's marketing message
- using promos to sell your app
- how to conduct a pricing analysis for your app
- how to measure results with analytics, and,
- implementing a marketing plan & calendar for your launch

This presentation is ideally suited for small, medium, and big business, as well as entrepreneurs, iPhone developers, marketing departments, and ad agencies.

Jeff is the developer and lead instructor for "Intro to iPhone Apps Marketing" a course that has helped hundreds of developers learn how to market their iPhone apps in a very competitive market and is a frequent contributor to popular iPhone sites including 148Apps.Biz.

Cost is just $49.95 for the day and includes breakfast.

You may register here
--

iPHONE DEVELOPMENT BOOTCAMP
We round out our iPhone Marketing with the most comprehensive 5-day iPhone Developer Course ever offered in Canada from Big Nerd Ranch. Let me speak quite plainly when I say that Big Nerd Ranch's Bootcamp is recognized as the most comprehensive and influential iPhone course in the world. Their list of clients and students include Pixar, Google, and Apple (to name a few).

Our trainer from Big Nerd Ranch will be Scott Ritchie.

Scott Ritchie has been developing and teaching Objective-C since he joined NeXT Computer in 1990. Prior to that time he was an engineer at Sun Microsystems working on window systems. Since 2000 he has held several training and engineering positions with Apple, most recently working with both AppKit and UIKit development. When the Fortune 500 companies of the world need an iPhone trainer, they call Big Nerd Ranch and ask for Scott Ritchie.

This week long course normally starts at $4200 for registration plus flight and hotel. But thanks to the generous support from the Province of Manitoba and Entrepreneurship, Training & Trade, Manitobans can take this course for just $1,495.

We at New Media Manitoba have worked for 2-years to offer this kind of top-tier iPhone development training at little cost. If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me if I knew of someone locally that develops for the iPhone I would be a hundred-naire! :) We are excited to promote you as part of an exclusive group of iPhone application developers in Manitoba.

The course is ideally suited for programmers that already have some experience with Obective-C and Cocoa.

Upon completion of the iPhone Bootcamp, you receive exclusive access to Big Nerd Ranch's private developer board where you have access to all the students Big Nerd Ranch has ever trained (in the thousands) and can ask questions of their trainers. You will also be profiled on New Media Manitoba's upcoming website relaunch as an iPhone specialist.

Cost is $1,495

You may register here

Response to the inaugural Factual Entertainment Awards, which will culminate in a high-profile presentation at Factual Entertainment Forum 2010 in June has been very strong. The final deadline has been extended to allow for extra time to prepare a submission for the industry’s first truly global celebration of factual entertainment excellence.

Final submissions will be received up until 5 p.m. EST on Thursday, January 21st, 2010.

We are accepting entries in the following categories:

• COMPETITION
• REALITY
• NON-FICTION/FACTUAL ENTERTAINMENT
• LIFESTYLE

Winners will be determined by juries of the industry’s most highly regarded experts in these audience fields, who will also
single out projects that merit special Craft Awards for editing, direction, casting, music, opening titles, cinematography, hosting and talent.

Please visit awards.realscreen.com for all the information you’ll need on Eligibility, Judging and Entry Guidelines. Again, the deadline is Thursday, January 21, 2010 at 5 p.m. EST. The awards ceremony will take place at the close of the Factual Entertainment Forum on June 3, at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica. Any questions regarding the submission process or the awards show can be directed to Claire Macdonald, publisher, realscreen at cmacdonald@brunico.com.

Our workshops are held in various venues in the downtown area so please visit our website, www.filmtraining.mb.ca, for more information on how to find us, and how to register for these workshops. You can also call us at 989-9669!

**Film Training Manitoba is pleased to offer training at a significantly reduced cost to the Manitoba Film industry.

Featured Courses:

Dr. Linda Seger Screenwriting Workshop

February 10th - 14th | 9:30 am – 5 pm | $300 
| Location | Burn’s Family Classroom, 218 - 100 Arthur Street

This intensive five-day screenwriting course is designed to focus on integral elements of the screenwriting work process. Beneficial for beginning, mid-career, or established screenwriters, it provides a comprehensive immersion in contemporary screenwriting craft. The workshop will be divided into modules of lectures, demonstrations and exercises.
Dr. Seger is the author of eleven books including eight on screenwriting and filmmaking. She has given seminars for ABC, CBS, NBC, Disney Animation, Turner Network Television, Embassy Television, Matinee Productions, the MacGyver Series, and the Television and Motion Picture Academies.

Winter Driving 

February 21st | 8 am – 3 pm | $150

Improve your winter driving skills with this practical, hands-on course that teaches the basics of winter driving as well as evasive techniques for skid control. Drive the Skid Monster and learn valuable skills to better prepare you for Manitoba’s winter road conditions.

Other courses:

Lift Certification

February 13th | 9 am – 5 pm | $100

Scene Study with Ben Davis

January 22nd to the 24th | 10 am – 6 pm | $125
 | Location | Actor’s Training Centre

IATSE 669 Assistant Camera Trainee Course

February 4th to the 7th | 8:30 am – 5 pm | $350


Please visit our course calendar on our website for more information on all of these courses.

Danishka Esterhazy's first feature-length film Black Field is set to screen at the European Film Market, Berlin Film Festival.

SYNOPSIS
A dark historical drama set in 19th century rural Canada, Black Field is a gothic tale about two sisters, the man that comes between them, and the tragedy that results.

More information at:
www.BlackFieldMovie.com

ZOOEY & ADAM

Dir. Sean Garrity | 2009 | Canada | 85 mins.

Winnipeg Cinemateque
Fri Jan 29, 2010 at 7:00 PM (Opening Night)
Fri Jan 29, 2010 at 9:00 PM
Sat Jan 30, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Sun Jan 31, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Mon Feb 1, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Tue Feb 2, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Wed Feb 3, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Thu Feb 4, 2010 at 7:00 PM

* Opening night screening introduced by Winnipeg director Sean Garrity

One of Canada's most imaginative independent filmmakers, Sean Garrity (director of Inertia, Winner Best Canadian Film / Toronto Film Festival 2001 and Lucid, Winner CITY TV award / Vancouver International Film Festival) has created a controversial new feature which will split audiences everywhere.

Adam and Zooey have been trying to have a baby for several months, only to end up pregnant after a rape. Unsure of the patronage of their child, they decide to have the baby anyway. Haunting and emotionally devastating, some festivals have refused to screen the film on the grounds that it is too contentious, yet it has sparked an incredible debate everywhere it has played. You decide.

TuTuMUCH
9 Girls 4 Weeks 1 Dream
tutumuchthemovie.com

A Canadian-Produced Feature Documentary Breaks New Ground As It Screens Across Canada At Over 55 Theatres

January 17, 2010 marks a special date in the history of Canadian documentary programming. On that date, at 1 PM, the arts feature documentary film, TuTuMUCH, will premiere at over 55 theatres to audiences of all ages across the country - from Quebec to British Columbia. This will be followed by a repeat screening on January 20 at 7:00pm.

Its believed that this is the first time in Canadian film history that a 100% Canadian-produced arts documentary feature has screened at this number of theatres on the same day.

Produced by Vonnie Von Helmolt and Merit Jensen Carr of Ballet Girls Inc, TuTuMUCH follows 9 young dancers behind-the-scenes as they plié and pirouette for coveted spots in an intensive 4 week ballet summer program at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Professional Division School. Leaving behind their families and friends, often for the first time, each girl confronts in her own way the painstaking and sometimes rewarding realities of actually living her dream.

The torturous journey of TutuMUCH began with the commission of a 3-part mini-series for Bravo! Television called BALLET GIRLS. From the outset, the producer’s plan included the production of a feature documentary. Little did they suspect that it would take over 6 years before they would see TutuMUCH on screen. Persevering through the declaration of bankruptcy of Christal Distribution (who were providing a sizeable MG), to Superchannel’s unexpected lack of funding, two editors, and over a year of editing (with assistance from Manitoba Film & Music), it wasn’t until the spring of 2009 that a champion for the film was found. That April, with assistance from Telefilm Canada, producer Vonnie Von Helmolt attended ShowCanada in Montreal, where she met with Michael Kennedy, Executive Vice President, Filmed Entertainment, of Cineplex Entertainment Inc. Michael immediately suggested that TutuMUCH would be a fit for Cineplex Odeon’s successful Special Events Program which screens live arts performances in limited, exclusive runs in theatres across Canada. Brad laDouceur, Vice President, Alternative Programming, agreed. Once Cineplex confirmed the deal for 30 to 60 cinemas, completion funding from the Telefilm & Rogers Theatrical Documentary Program and Telefilm’s Alternative Marketing Fund swiftly followed.

“This is a whole new and exciting way of bringing theatrical arts features to the audiences that want to see them. And Cineplex has been completely supportive, not only running our trailer, but even allowing us to place dance students in tutus at theatres across the country to hand out buttons and postcards promoting TuTuMUCH at every Special Events screening. They’ve been great!” say Von Helmolt and Jensen Carr.

TuTuMUCH is self-distributed by the production company, Ballet Girls Inc. For more information about the film or to talk to the producers, please contact:

Jennifer Jensen-Tracy
Publicist – Ballet Girls Inc
T: (519) 442-9179 Cel: (519)750-4725
E: jen.jensen@sympatico.ca

SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL
Park City, UTAH
Jan. 21 - 31, 2010

Eleven Canadian films set to compete and captivate from morning ‘til midnight

With a large serving of talent, a great deal of commitment and a wealth of passion… Canadian cinema will be lighting up the screens at Sundance.

In addition to six top-flight short films, the Competition line-up includes Grown Up Movie Star, an accomplished first feature by Adriana Maggs that magnifies the pain of growing up -- at any age -- and Lixin Fan’s Last Train Home, an exceptional debut documentary that puts a human face on China’s ascendance as an economic power. Park City at Midnight features three modern-day horror films and thrillers from north of the border: Daniel Grou aka Podz captures the psyche of a sane man gone mad in his first feature 7 Days; Vincenzo Natali gives the classic monster film a deliciously sadistic twist in Splice; and Eli Craig’s ingenious send-up of the horror genre Tucker & Dale vs. Evil recounts a simple misunderstanding gone grotesquely wrong.

OSM Member Derek Mazur produced the short Runaway, with Winnipeg animator Cordell Barker for the NFB. Runaway follows happy passengers on a crowded train, oblivious to an unknown fate that awaits them around the bend. The ensuing crisis leads to a class struggle that is as amusing as it is merciless.

Runaway Trailer
Making of Runaway - Interview with Cordell Barker

Click here to view schedule of Canadian films at Sundance

The Canadian Film Centre (CFC), is looking for applicants for two of its programs; the Cineplex Entertainment Film Program and CFC Features.

CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT FILM PROGRAM
APPLICATION DEADLINE | JANUARY 25, 2010

EDITORS – PRODUCERS – WRITERS – DIRECTORS

In this five-and-a-half month program, directors, producers, writers and editors will be completely immersed in the art and business of dramatic filmmaking. Filmmakers develop their technical, collaborative and business skills, while developing project slates and refining their artistic expression in an intensely demanding, creative and professional environment.

Apply today at www.cfccreates.com/film
For more information contact: amcguigan@cfccreates.com

CFC FEATURES
APPLICATION DEADLINE | JANUARY 29, 2010

GET YOUR MOVIE MADE.

CFC Features is looking to invest in filmmakers from across Canada with engaging stories for the big screen. From development to distribution, we offer an unparalleled opportunity to make your movie a reality.

Check out our new guidelines offering even more flexibility and financing for filmmakers at www.cfccreates.com/features

For more information contact: abacchus@cfccreates.com

TKARONTO (Opening Night Intro by Dir. Shane Belcourt)
Fri. Jan 15 at 7:00 PM (Intro by Dir. Shane Belcourt)
Sat. Jan 16 at 7:00 PM
Sun. Jan 17 at 7:00 PM

Shane Belcourt's multi-award winning Tkaronto is a provocative exploration of two Aboriginal thirty-somethings' caught in the urban crossroads: Ray and Jolene discover an unexpected connection when their paths' cross in Tkaronto (the original Mohawk word for Toronto). The opening night screening will be introduced by the film's director, Aboriginal Artist in Residence Shane Belcourt.

CABIN FEVER: THE INCREDIBLE ADVENTURES OF WALLACE AND GROMIT (FREE ADMISSION)
Sun. Jan.17 at 2:00 PM
FREE ADMISSION

Featuring three of their best stories including the hilarious stop-motion animated adventures of inventor Wallace and his dog Gromit as they face the world in Nick Park's ingenious, short films - A Grand Day Out, The Wrong Trousers and A Close Shave. FREE ADMISSION! The Winnipeg Film Group gratefully acknowledges the generous support of the Assiniboine Credit Union for our annual CABIN FEVER: FREE FILMS FOR KIDS SERIES.

determiNATION SONGS (Opening Night Intro by Shane Belcourt)
Sat. Jan. 16 at 9:00 PM (Intro by Shane Belcourt)
Wed. Jan. 20 at 9:00 PM
Thu. Jan 21 at 9:00 PM

The latest film by Paul Rickard and former Winnipegger Michelle Smith, determiNATION songs interweaves the stories of three talented native singer/songwriters - Samian, Cheri Maracle and CerAmony - through the artists' creative process, inspiration, commitment and involvement with the resistance movements in their communities. (Introduced by Aboriginal Artist in Residence, Shane Belcourt)

THE STORYTELLING CLASS
Wed. Jan 20 at 7:00 PM
Wed. Jan 21 at 7:00 PM
Sun. Jan 24 at 7:00 PM

Group rates and booking are available for The Storytelling Class by contacting Kristy Muckosky, Cinematheque Operations Coordinator at kristy@winnipegfilmgroup.com or 925-3459.

Back by popular demand, The Storytelling Project is a documentary made by local filmmaker John Paskievich and teacher/ filmmaker John Whiteway who made this film that discovers the healing power of storytelling in a unique project at Gordon Bell High School. The film is based on a worshop inititiated by Marc Kuly, a dynamic teacher at Winnipeg's Gordon Bell High School. Kuly developed an after-school storytelling class which enable immigrant students to share their stories with their school peers. This documentary follows the inspiring and influential effect that storytelling had for its participants.

CLICK HERE to download the Jan / Feb Schedule for the Cinematheque

MARKETING AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR (PDF) / (DOC)

On Screen Manitoba is looking for a personable, detail-oriented multi-tasker to fill the team position of Marketing and Outreach Coordinator, under OSM’s ACCESS Project. The successful candidate will be able to work in a fast paced environment independently and within a team of equally passionate colleagues. The Marketing and Outreach Coordinator will serve our membership by offering support and expertise to OSM’s Marketing Department.

JOB SUMMARY
Responsible for the coordination of marketing initiatives, outreach events and fund development.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Reporting to the Marketing & Membership Manager, the Marketing & Outreach Coordinator will be responsible for the following areas within the Marketing Department:

Marketing and Outreach
• Assist the Marketing & Membership Manager to implement OSM’s marketing strategies.
• Maintain a comprehensive collection of images, clips and photos.
• Coordinate all marketing collateral (ads, signage, promotional material, etc.) with design firm.
• Assist with the creation of promo reel.
• Control all visual elements of OSM website & other marketing materials:
     o Maintain consistency of OSM brand, copy, visual appeal;
     o Work with design firm on visual components as needed;
     o Liaise with web designers on all functions of website (both existing and in development).
• Undertake all event Logistics and coordinate OSM’s involvement in all sponsored events. Duties include:
     o Outsourcing/booking venues;
     o Working with venue representatives;
     o Ordering food & beverage;
     o Organizing A/V logistics;
     o Overseeing registration logistics;
     o Budget & critical path development;
     o Coordinating venue set up/layout;
     o Working with Programs & Financial Coordinator to ensure invoices are correct/paid;
• Coordinate and attend Marketing & Membership Committee meetings.
• Attend industry events.

FUND DEVELOPMENT
• Assist with fundraising for ACCESS Project initiatives.
• Research potential revenue sources/funders.
• Maintain member/VIP database.
• Coordinate sponsorship fulfillment, both when OSM is sponsored and OSM is a sponsor.

ACCOUNTABILITY
Reports to OSM’s Marketing and Membership Manager. Accountabilities include:

• providing coordination for the effective implementation of OSM’s marketing and fund development strategies;
• developing impactful and cost-efficient initiatives while at all times meeting the highest standards of performance and best-practice.
• work to achieve the goals set out in the ACCESS Project related to: increased production volumes, cumulative job increases, increased total revenues by production companies, increased export revenues and increased traffic to OSM’s websites;
• serving all of OSM’s organizational goals, with a particular focus on “Being the leading voice of the Manitoba motion picture industry” (Foster community and increase member participation), and “Building the Industry” (Be a catalyst in helping our members reach their career & business goals)

QUALIFICATIONS
1. General understanding of the motion picture industry.
2. Post-secondary education in marketing and/or communications.
3. Strong written communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
4. Excellent organizational skills.
5. Must be prepared to work under pressure and unsupervised.
6. Effective networking skills to build and maintain relationships and networks of contacts.
7. Events management experience required.
8. Fund development knowledge.
9. Experience working with Photoshop would be an asset.

EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS:
• Term position funded by OSM’s ACCESS Project, terminating March 31, 2013
• This is a full-time position with benefits (after 3 months of employment)
• Hours of work at 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. Occasional weekend and evening work is required
• The Marketing & Outreach Coordinator reports directly to the Marketing & Membership Manager
• The initial three months of employment will be probationary

APPLICATION PROCESS
Please submit a cover letter and resume with the subject line “Marketing and Outreach Coordinator” by 5pm Friday, Jan. 29, 2010 to:

Megan Deaust
Marketing and Membership Manager
On Screen Manitoba
Unit 100 – 62 Albert St
Winnipeg, MB R3B 1E9
P: (204) 927-5890
E: megan@onscreenmanitoba.com

THE ORGANIZATION
On Screen Manitoba is an innovative membership-driven association that leads, builds and represents Manitoba’s screen-based media industry. Our association has grown and evolved over its 22 years into a vital force in the industry. We lead our community in setting common goals and in building a stronger industry. Our membership represents the full spectrum of individuals and organizations (production companies, labour groups, distributors, broadcasters, suppliers and supporting organizations) that make up the screen-based media industry in Manitoba. On Screen Manitoba membership totals nearly 300 but reaches more than 1,500 individuals.

On Screen Manitoba supports the ongoing growth and development of Manitoba’s screen-based media industry by providing a number of services to its membership, including: Regular Communications, Advocacy Efforts, Networking Opportunities, Marketing Initiatives and Industry Development Programming.

LESS THAN KIND (Season 2) Friday, February 19 at 8:30 p.m.

This half-hour Canadian comedy series follows overweight Winnipeg teenager Sheldon Blecher as he attempts to survive his awkward teenage years with a dysfunctional family that includes Sam Blecher, Sheldon’s self-destructive driving-instructor father; Anne Blecher, his unstable pyromaniac mother; and Josh Blecker, his failed-actor brother.

As season two begins, the abrasive Sam is at Death’s door. But even Death won’t answer when Sam comes knocking. As a result, Anne’s anxiety reaches a breaking point while Josh is torn between obligations to his dying acting career, family and his girlfriend. As the turmoil at home escalates, Sheldon is dealing with seismic developments of his own as his best friend – braceface Miriam Goldstein – is becoming more than just a friend. Together they endure the explosive shift from their life as innocent geeks to being sixteen – a world on the cusp of sex, drugs and even rock ‘n roll. For Sheldon, this is a year of bullies and girl bullies, cliques and parties – just to add a little gasoline to the fire. Starring Maury Chaykin, Jesse Camacho, Wendel Meldrum, Benjamin Arthur, Brooke Palsson, Tyler Johnston, and Ross McMillan.

Click here to watch the first season of Less Than Kind

MIPTV
April 12-16, 2010, Cannes, France

This April, attend MIPTV and get your first taste of the newest programmes, freshest formats and latest technologies for TV, the Internet and all digital platforms.

Simply register by January 28 and benefit from the special rate of €860.

Fresh Shows. Fresh Formats. Fresh Deals.
Prepare for five extraordinary days of unprecedented face-to-face networking with 11,500 global media professionals, including 4,000 buyers, from 102 countries.

Your MIPTV registration gives you access to 21,000m2 of exhibits, featuring 1,500 TV and media companies; plus 45+ sessions, blockbuster keynotes and matchmaking events. Prospect in advance and find partners via MIP’s Online Delegate Database.

Register early to get a fresh start on MIPTV’s multi-billion entertainment content market.

Early Deals / Serious Savings

Save 34% on Registration: Deal ends January 28
Book now for NEW lower room rates at select hotels
Save on international flights through Air France
Become an exhibitor? Pre-packaged stands save time and money

Register now!
 

TRANS ATLANTIC PARTNERS
International Co-Production: Focus Europe and Canada

TRANS ATLANTIC PARTNERS (TAP) is pleased to announce it is currently accepting applications from qualifying film producers to participate in its 2010 co-production training program.

Online application forms are available at www.coproduction-training.com,

The deadline to apply is March 11, 2010.

TAP, presented jointly by the Erich Pommer Institut (Germany) and Strategic Partners (Canada), is an intensive two-module training program for Canadian and European producers seeking co-production professional development. Module 1 kicks off June 19 -24, 2010 in Berlin, Germany, and Module 2 takes place September 14-20th, 2010 in Halifax and includes registration at Canada's leading international co-production market, Strategic Partners.

Trans Atlantic Partners gives producers the necessary tools and knowledge to maneuver through the complex arena of international co-production and to overcome the legal and financial barriers. The Program is designed specifically to strengthen ties between the Canadian and European screen industries and provide excellent networking opportunities.

TRANS ATLANTIC PARTNERS offers producers the opportunity to:

Develop specific skills in international co-production
Learn from key professionals from both sides of the Atlantic
Receive up-to-date information on Canadian and European film funds and tax incentives
Discover new international partners and projects
Access top industry players to discuss their projects in 1-2-1 meetings
Participate in excellent networking opportunities

TAP is designed for producers with at least five years experience in producing film and/or television, but not necessarily in international co-production. Further information is available at the following link:

http://www.epi-medieninstitut.de/pn-programm_seminar-205_en.html

For a flyer that includes all Trans Atlantic Partners information, download the Trans Atlantic Partners 2010 (PDF)

And just a reminder -

Strategic Partners: September 16-19, 2010. Application Deadline: July 12th, 2010.

An International Film, Television and Multiplatform Co-Production Market

One of the world's pre-eminent co-production markets, Strategic Partners focuses on feature film and TV fiction projects and long form documentaries, including those at an early stage of development, looking for the right partner. New this year, SP will also include multiplatform projects in the mix. More and more producers are exploring the multiplatform possibilities of their projects and who they can partner with to deliver their product. SP 1-2-1 meetings will not only include those with financiers, agencies, distributors, broadcasters and traditional co-production partners, they will also include pre-scheduled meetings with potential multiplatform partners as well.

The SP'10 applications will be on our website in early February at www.atlanticfilm.com

Key deadlines:

Trans Atlantic Partners application deadline March 11, 2010
Strategic Partners application deadline July 12, 2010

For inquiries regarding Strategic Partners 2010 please contact: strategicpartners@atlanticfilm.com

TONIGHT on CBC! 9 PM Eastern, 8 PM Central!

TONIGHT’S EPISODE: “Queer As Jokes”

Elvira Kurt hosts the first “All Gay” variety show on a national Canadian network! These six comics come out of the comedy closet - sharing the humorous moments, universal problems, and ridiculous experiences of everyday life. Tonight’s comics include Bob Smith - the first openly gay comic to appear on The Tonight Show, Trevor Boris – of MuchMusic’s “Video On Trial” fame, and of course, your host Elvira Kurt from the Comedy Network’s “Pop Cultured with Elvira Kurt” and “Elvira Kurt: Adventures in Comedy”.

Featuring:
TREVOR BORIS
BOB SMITH
JONATHAN WILSON
ED SAHELY
DIANE FLACKS
DARCY MICHAEL

Check out these two teasers from acts Trevor Boris and Darcy Michael

The nationally renowned CBC Winnipeg Comedy Festival Television Series features five hours of stand-up comedy from some of North America's best comedic talent. Politically charged funnyman and viral video star Marc Maron, Whose Line Is It Anyway's Kathryn Greenwood, ABC's Shark Tank billionaire Kevin O'Leary, comedy circuit faves Tim Steeves and Bob Smith and oddball Kids in the Hall alum Kevin McDonald are just a handful of the hysterical performers who find the funny in specially themed episodes: Savings & Groans, The Holiday Show, Queer as Jokes, Cradle to the Grave and The Seven Deadly Sins.

The CBC Winnipeg Comedy Festival Television Series will be airing every Monday night on CBC until February 22, 2010. You don’t want to miss a single episode!

focus | ckuw 95.9 fm | mondays | 3 pm.

This week's guest: Shane Belcourt.

Shane is the Winnipeg Film Group's Aboriginal Artist-in-Residence 2010. We will talk about how identity plays a role in his films. Shane will be conducting workshops and presenting his films, follow link below for more information.

www.winnipegfilmgroup.com

host: Matthew Etches.

focus is a radio show that interviews winnipeg filmmakers, and explores their passions and influences.

Join the

facebook group

Click here to listen online.

Future guests:

Jan 18th, 2010: TBA

Jan 25th, 2010: Sean Garrity

if you have any comments, or would like to be on the show, email Matthew Etches at

focus.ckuw@gmail.com

.

With the overwhelming success of our inaugural ALL ACCESS: The TV Edition in the spring of 2009, it was evident that Manitoba’s screen-based media industry wants more ACCESS! We are happy to announce that On Screen Manitoba will be delivering two conferences in 2010 - ALL ACCESS: The Digital Incubator (January 28) and ALL ACCESS: TV 2010 (April).

ALL ACCESS SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

There are exciting sponsorship opportunities for both ALL ACCESS: The Digital Incubator and ALL ACCESS: TV 2010, that will position your company in front of key industry professionals. These sponsorship packages also include tangible benefits that you don’t want to miss out on!

Please click here for all the details (PDF)

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR ALL ACCESS: THE DIGITAL INCUBATOR!

Registration Form (PDF)

Registration Form (Word)

Schedule at a glance (PDF)
 

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

On Screen Manitoba in partnership with New Media Manitoba present:

ALL ACCESS: THE DIGITAL INCUBATOR

Lead Sponsors: Telefilm Canada and Midcanada Production Services

Registration Closes Friday, January 22, 2010 @ 4:30pm

DATE: Thursday, January 28, 2010

PLACE: Fairmont Winnipeg – Midway Ballroom
TIME: 7:30am-5:30pm
COST: $75 Members (On Screen Manitoba & New Media Manitoba)
            $100 Non-Members

REGISTRATION FORM: PDF / WORD

SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE (PDF)

For everything ALL ACCESS please visit www.allaccessosm.com

For an OSM MEMBERSHIP complete and submit the OSM MEMBERSHIP FORM (PDF)

For a NMM MEMBERSHIP contact:
Kathy Driscoll, Training Director, New Media Manitoba at kathy@newmediamanitoba.com

ALL ACCESS: The Digital Incubator is a daylong interactive digital media forum that will bring together the 3 C’s—computing, communications and content to highlight the interlocking of traditional film & television with interactive digital media. The day will consist of a keynote speaker, a panel discussion, guest speakers, round-table meetings, one-on-one meetings and networking opportunities.

CONFIRMED SPEAKERS:

- Ken Bautista, CEO & Creative Director, CIE: Seek Your Own Proof
- Norm Bolen, President & CEO, CFTPA

- Mark Bishop, Partner & Producer, marblemedia

- Rochelle Grayson, Social Media, Social Games and Online Entertainment Executive, Rochelle.ca
- Alexander Manu, Senior Partner & Chief Imaginator, InnoSpa International Partners

COMING SOON: The ALL ACCESS micro-site (Powered by Midcanada Production Services), your source for everything ALL ACCESS. Stay tuned for more details!

Presented with generous support from:

Telefilm Canada
Midcanada Production Services
Fairmont Winnipeg
Manitoba Innovation, Energy and Mines
Destination Winnipeg
Manitoba Trade & Investment
CFTPA
CTF
TRLabs
William F. White International

More sponsors to be announced.

Jennifer Finnigan has taken the lead role in Shadow Island Mysteries, the new MOW property from Breakthrough Films & Television and Buffalo Gal, now shooting in Manitoba.

The Montreal-born actress, seen previously in ABC's Close to Home and NBC's Committed, plays a would-be mystery writer whose day job at a resort in the Canadian wilderness leads to real-life whodunits. The first installment concerns a groom-to-be who goes missing shortly before his wedding.

Breakthrough and Buffalo Gal plan to make six Shadow Island telemovies and have handed the U.S. distribution rights to Fireworks International. Further, Fireworks parent ContentFilm will rep the would-be franchise worldwide, excluding Canada and the territories covered under a previous deal for Europe with Daro Films and Free Dolphin.

Shadow Island Mysteries is set to air here on Movie Central, W Network and, via a second window deal, on Sun TV. Gary Yates (High Life, Seven Times Lucky) directs from the script by Alex Galatis and Paula Smith.

Our workshops are held in various venues in the downtown area so please visit our website, www.filmtraining.mb.ca, for more information on how to find us, and how to register for these workshops. You can also call us at 989-9669!

**Film Training Manitoba is pleased to offer training at a significantly reduced cost to the Manitoba Film industry.

Scene Study with Ben Davis
January 22nd to the 24th | 10 am – 6 pm | $125
Location | Actor’s Training Centre

Straight from Los Angeles, acting coach Ben Davis will be using the Ivana Chubbuck Technique to take participants through a
scene study workshop.

"After years of going to various acting workshops to hone my directing skills, last year I had the amazing experience of attending a workshop with Ben Davis. I think I learned more in one day than all of the other workshops combined. For my purposes Ben is the perfect coach: he's enthusiastic, funny, extremely focused and very critical. But his criticism is always constructive and comes from a place of passion and belief in his student’s capabilities. I watched in wonder as over and over again he took competent performances and transformed them into riveting, compelling scenes. I'll go to his classes whenever I can."
- Norma Bailey, Director

IATSE 669 Assistant Camera Trainee Course
February 4th to the 7th | 8:30 am – 5 pm | $350
Location | *See full posting on the FTM calendar for more details

The purpose of the camera trainee course is to provide the basic set of skills needed to work on a Western-based union set (BC, AB, SK, & MB). This course is structured to give participants an introduction to cinematography within a union environment. The emphasis will be on the camera department, specifically the duties of a camera trainee who is working towards becoming a 2nd camera assistant. This course will be taught in a combination of lecture and hands on teaching techniques.

Upon successful completion of the assistant trainee course, participants will be accepted into the camera trainee program. The ultimate aim of the trainee program is to produce working 2nd camera assistants in the IATSE 669 union, whose skills and professional workmanship help to create a desirable environment for productions contemplating shooting in Western Canada.

*Please visit our course calendar for more information on the assistant camera trainee course, including eligibility requirements for the course.

FTM workshops taking place in early 2010:

Dr. Linda Seger Screenwriting Workshop
February 10th - 14th | 9:30 am – 5 pm | $300
Location | Burn’s Family Classroom, 218 - 100 Arthur Street

Lift Certification
February 13th | 9 am – 5 pm | $100

Winter Driving
February 21st | 8 am – 3 pm | $150

CALL FOR ENTRIES - CANADA PAVILION AT MIPTV 2010
Cannes, France, April 12 to 16, 2010

Telefilm Canada is currently soliciting applications from Canadian production and distribution companies for MIPTV 2010. MIPTV is a major international market for financing, co-producing, buying and selling entertainment across all platforms. It provides you with more contact in the entertainment content business, more exposure and a wider range of distribution platforms than any other industry event anywhere in the world.

Given that the organizer of MIPTV, Reed Midem, has decided to freeze its rental rates for the 2010 year, Telefilm Canada is pleased to announce that the 2009 Canada Pavilion option rates will be kept for 2010.

In 2009, there were 11,500 industry professionals, including 3,800 buyers and 4000 companies from 105 countries. The Canada Pavilion covers a surface area measuring 457 m2 and can accommodate a maximum of 80 companies, making it MIPTV’s largest national pavilion.

NEW IN 2010! The Canada Pavilion offers a special networking activity for companies gathered under its umbrella: Connect with Canada! is part of the official program of MIPTV and available to all market participants.

For more information, visit www.miptv.com

Information and registration procedure
Application form

Deadline : February 19, 2010

It pays to use eTelefilm!
Telefilm Canada is expanding the use of its eTelefilm services to include it festival and market activities. We are happy to announce that it is now available. We encourage you to subscribe now to eTelefilm. Note that the validation of the one time process for eTelefilm may take up to 5 business days.

If you are a registered E-Telefilm user, click on the same link and connect directly to eTelefilm.

If the above is not possible, Download, complete and sign the attached participation form.

Should you require additional information, please contact Marie-Claude Viau by e-mail at viaum@telefilm.gc.ca or by phone at (514) 283-0838 ext.: 2009

Consult the complete list of current calls for entries

National and International Business Development
Telefilm Canada, Montréal
514 283-6363

12th Buenos Aires Festival Internacional de Cine Independiente
Buenos Aires, Argentina, April 7 to 18, 2010
Feature-length films

Application deadline: January 29, 2010

64th Edinburgh International Film Festival
Edinburgh, Scotland, June 16 to 27, 2010
Feature-length and short films

Regular Deadline: February 1, 2010

Late Deadline, higher registration fee: February 15, 2010

REMINDER

56th International Short Film Festival Oberhausen
Oberhausen, Germany, April 29 to May 4, 2010
Short films only

34th International Animation Film Festival
Annecy, France, June 7 to 10, 2010
Animated Films and Videos

Frantic Films announces the growth of its television distribution library with the acquisition of the international rights to factual entertainment programming produced by Vancouver-based production company, The Eyes Television Production Ltd., a division of Peace Arch Entertainment Group Inc.

Known for producing series such as “The Last 10 Pounds Bootcamp,” “Bulging Brides,” and “Air Dogs,” The Eyes’ library includes over 150 hours of programs, the bulk of which has never been sold in the international market.

The transaction increases Frantic Films’ library to approximately 500 hours – including 67 hours currently in production – and supports greater international distribution revenues. Peace Arch has retained the US and Canadian rights to the programs acquired by Frantic Films.

“The Eyes programming is the perfect addition to our existing library,” says Jamie Brown, CEO of Frantic Films. “They are very successful programs in Canada and the United States that have been underexploited internationally to date. We know there is a strong appetite for high quality programs like these in the international market.”

“This is a win-win situation for both companies – Frantic is able to expand their distribution library and we are happy to see The Eyes’ programming actively selling internationally,” said Michael Taylor, President of Peace Arch Television Ltd.

“In addition to the titles Frantic has acquired, we have several new series in various stages of piloting as well,” stated Blair Reekie, President of The Eyes. “We look forward to working with Frantic on the distribution of the collection of our shows that they have picked up.”

The acquisition is another milestone for the fast-growing Frantic Films. In December 2006, the company secured a $5-million equity investment from Toronto-based Priveq Capital Funds. In December 2007, Frantic successfully divested its visual effects and software divisions to India and UK-based Prime Focus Group (PRFO: BSE) to focus on film and television production. Last year, Frantic acquired successful Toronto production company Red Apple Entertainment.

About Frantic Films
Formed in 1997, Frantic Films launched its Live Action division in 2000 when Jamie Brown joined the company as CEO. It has since produced over 286 hours of live action programming winning numerous awards and setting several ratings records. Its programming includes feature films, MOWs, documentary and lifestyle programming, including Gemini Award winning “Til Debt Do Us Part” (Slice Network), “House Poor” (HGTV) and “Guinea Pig” (Discovery Channel). For more information, visit www.franticfilms.com.

About Peace Arch Entertainment:
Peace Arch Entertainment produces and acquires feature films and television programs for worldwide distribution. The Company’s Emmy and Gemini Award winning drama “The Tudors” airs on Showtime in the United States and CBC in Canada, and its lifestyle series “The Last 10 Pounds Boot Camp” and “Bulging Brides” each air on FLN in the U.S. and Slice in Canada. The Company’s recent feature film releases include “The Mysteries of Pittsburgh” starring Jon Foster, Peter Sarsgaard, Sienna Miller, Mena Suvari and Nick Nolte and “JCVD” starring Jean Claude Van Damme. Peace Arch owns one of the largest libraries of top quality independent feature films in the world, featuring more than 800 classic and contemporary titles. For additional information, please visit www.peacearch.com.

Reporting to the Executive Producer – Eastern Region in Ottawa, we have a full-time career opportunity for an experienced individual who will be responsible for submitting daily television news stories for broadcast on APTN National News.

Key responsibilities:
• Structures, writes and delivers News & Current Affairs stories for daily and/or weekly show(s)
• Identifies, researches and submits ideas
• On-camera presentation of News & Current Affairs stories
• Evaluates leads/tips
• Receives assignments
• Writes and/or voices on-camera scripts, copy stories and voice overs
• Acts as interviewer on and off air
• Oversees technical staff working on assigned stories
• Oversees editing of re-package pre-taped video news material

Requirements:
• Minimum of two years experience in meeting the deadlines of daily news in television
• A journalism degree, certificate or equivalent experience
• As an on-air representative of Canada’s Aboriginal Peoples – must be of First Nations, Métis or Inuit ancestry
• Must be able to articulate social, economic and cultural issues relevant to Aboriginal communities
• Knowledge of French and/or at least one Aboriginal language an asset
• Proof of valid driver’s license (driver’s abstract)
• Must be able to travel within the province
As this position is part of a bargaining unit, the successful candidate will operate under the collective agreement with the Canadian Media Guild.

Remuneration: DOQ/DOE

Please provide a demo of you delivering a newscast, a paragraph stating how you would focus and visualize a current Aboriginal story of your choice, and your resume quoting Competition 09/10-18 and where you saw this ad, by 3 p.m. (CST), Tuesday, January 19, 2010, to:

Human Resources
Aboriginal Peoples Television Network
339 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3B 2C3
Fax: 204-943-2368 E-Mail: careers@aptn.ca

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

CLICK HERE to download the Reporter/Correspondent – Toronto Posting

imagineNATIVE & LIFT
6TH ANNUAL MENTORSHIP PROGRAM: CALL FOR APPLICANTS
(Indigenous artists around the GTA only)
-Make a short film for imagineNATIVE 2010!-

Application Deadline: Monday January 11, 2009

Do you have a great idea for a 5-minute short film? Explore 16mm filmmaking through LIFT's workshops, equipment and facilities. Shoot and edit your ideas to film, and see them on screen at the 11th Annual imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival, which will take place in Toronto from October 20-24, 2010!

You will be provided with a LIFT Membership, and be eligible to enroll in any film production and post-production training workshop offered during their Winter/Spring and Summer 2010 calendar. You will be paired with LIFT's knowledgeable staff and a specially selected mentor to help you through your various development, production and post-production stages. imagineNATIVE will subsidize additional costs related to your project, and facilitate aspects of your post-production stages.

Please note: Projects must be realistic in scope and subject matter as they must be completed and transferred to beta by September 24, 2010.

The participant will receive the opportunity to use LIFT's extensive 16mm production equipment and facilities for their film. As every film is unique. Equipment and facilities access will be established in the budgeting section the development phase (past equipment and facilities budgets have ranged from $500 - $2,500). Any additional equipment and facilities costs will be the responsibility of the participant.

imagineNATIVE will provide a bursary towards production costs (minimum $500). 1200 feet of film stock will be provided by Kodak. Assistance with transferring and processing will also be provided. All other associated costs are to be covered by the participant.

Eligibility Criteria:

This call is open to Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, Inuit, other international Indigenous) candidates only;
Preference will be given to artists who have not had the opportunity to work in film (Note: you do not have to be a youth, but youth may also apply); Candidates must commit to attending the LIFT training workshops from March - August 2009. We strongly encourage applicants who are deadline driven and self-starters. You must live in Toronto or within commuting distance from the city. Travel subsidy and cost of living are NOT covered by this mentorship.

Your Application Must Include:

One-page short film idea
A half to one-page statement on why you would like to participate and how you would benefit from this mentorship;
Your bio (no resumes or CVs please). Please be certain to indicate your past experience with film, video and other artistic mediums, if any, and your Indigenous affiliation.
Email to kpotts@imagineNATIVE.org.

Questions? Please call Kerry Potts at (416) 585-2333 or kpotts@imagineNATIVE.org.

About the Liaison of Independent Filmmakers of Toronto
LIFT has a market niche as Canada's foremost artist run centre for independent filmmakers wishing to create films on celluloid. It is a custodian of equipment and specialized knowledge of that medium. To ensure that emerging and established filmmakers have an opportunity to work with film, LIFT offers a variety of programs (workshops, equipment rental, residencies, commissions, screenings etc) that empower filmmakers in that medium. LIFT acknowledges the validity of other media technologies, such as digital and emerging hybrid media, and provides programs to filmmakers who wish to create on other media. www.lift.on.ca

About the imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival
The imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival, now in its 11th year, is an international festival that celebrates the latest works by Indigenous peoples on the forefront of innovation in film, video, and new media. Each fall, the festival presents a selection of the most compelling and distinctive Indigenous works from around the globe. The festival's screenings, parties, panel discussions, and cultural events attract and connect filmmakers, media artists, programmers, buyers, and industry professionals. The works accepted reflect the diversity of the world's Indigenous nations and illustrate the vitality and excellence of our art and culture in contemporary media. This year's festival runs Oct. 20-24th. www.imagineNATIVE.org

Montréal, January 5, 2010

Dear Colleagues,

As you may know, my appointment as Executive Director of Telefilm Canada is coming to an end.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your valued support and collaboration over these past five years.

Your enthusiasm and commitment to our film, television and new media industries, as well as your ongoing support of Telefilm and its programmes have contributed enormously to the success and achievements we can all celebrate.

Prosperous and Happy New Year.

S. Wayne Clarkson

The Globe and Mail calls it a "brilliantly-acted caper flick" and the festival audiences in Berlin, Shanghai, Edinburgh and Toronto loved it! And on Friday, January 15, High Life opens in the city where it was made, at Winnipeg’s SilverCity Polo Park.

It’s 1983. The accidental reunion of two drug-addled and petty criminals, Bug and Dick, turns into an uproarious high jinks when the duo joins forces with a pair of hapless characters to rob an ATM machine. High Life, from Winnipeg director Gary Yates, is a tale of friendship and honour among thieves that is both edgy and hilarious. Compact, fast-paced, and wonderfully idiosyncratic, the film is a hoot.

Starring Timothy Olyphant, Stephen Eric McIntyre, Joe Anderson, and Rossif Sutherland.
Produced in association with Buffalo Gal Pictures

www.highlifethemovie.com

Special Shout out to OSM member Guy Maddin, who places number five on the list with his film My Winnipeg.

Veteran directors at the top of their game, a brilliant new talent from the North, and an accomplished actor moving behind the camera lens: This decade has been an exciting one for Canadian film.

It's tough to pick favourites, but below are CTV.ca's top 10 films of the 2000s.

There are a couple box office smashes that didn't quite make it, including Paul Gross's Passchendaele. And maybe you really, really liked Bon Cop, Bad Cop. If you think we missed something, please include it in the comments.

And now, here we are, in descending order:

10. Ginger Snaps (2000)

Yeah, it's yet another horror film that uses monsters as an allegory for teenage hormones and angst. But rarely has it been done better. The film makes great use of the encroachment of urban sprawl on Canada's wilderness, and clueless, suburban parents who are almost as damaging as the werewolves. Be afraid.

9. FUBAR (2002)

Just imagine, all those intellectuals in the 1960s, fretting about Canadian identity and trying to see what made us tick. Yawn. If only we could build a time-machine and send them F.U.B.A.R., they would know the answer: Heavy metal, hockey, beer, roadside camping, mullets, and more beer.

8. C.R.A.Z.Y. (2005)

A young man comes to terms with his homosexuality in 1970s Quebec, when the province was immersed in Catholic and separatist ideals, while trying to stay close to his strict father. It's a tough life, but one beautifully told by director Jean-Marc Vallee, whose psychedelic imagery captures the era.

7. Water (2006)

In this final film from Deepa Mehta's Elements Trilogy, she continues her damning exploration of societal barriers in India. This time, she examines the lives of Hindu widows in the late 1930s. Under religious law they were forced to live in institutions, cut off from society like prisoners. Mehta struggled against fundamentalists to get the film made, and she makes every shot count.

6. Pontypool (2008)

The author Tony Burgess and director Bruce McDonald, critics' favourites but mainstream outlaws, team up like Butch and Sundance for this wonderfully weird zombie film. The action takes place in a tiny Ontario town's radio station, where a grizzled Stephen McHattie gets strange reports of violent activity. McDonald places heavy restrictions on himself: He uses few camera angles, mostly fixed in place, that boost the film's claustrophobia.

5. My Winnipeg (2007)

Guy Maddin always shoots through a filter of expressionistic films, Scandinavian imagery and a droll sense of humour to find the essence of life in Manitoba. In "My Winnipeg," he uses his bag of tricks to examine his own childhood, fusing his personal history with that of the city. The result is a hilarious, and mesmerizing, tribute to his hometown.

4. A History of Violence (2005)

A reformed criminal's dark past infects his present life, splitting apart his peaceful, small-town existence. It's a simple tale, but David Cronenberg takes the audience on a gripping ride of sharp-angle turns. And as the title implies, there's plenty of violence; it has such a sickening, visceral impact that even those desensitized by horror films will flinch.

3. The Barbarian Invasions / Les invasions barbares (2003)

It's Denys Arcand at his meditative best, tackling the Big Questions and revisiting the intellectuals from his 1986 comedy "Decline of the American Empire." At the heart of his film is the relationship between a dying history professor and his polar opposite: his finance-wizard son. This was a rare critical and commercial box office hit in Canada, and deservedly won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

2. Away from Her (2006)

For Sarah Polley's feature debut as a director, she chose a love story by Alice Munro, one of the greatest English-language writers on the planet -- or the greatest -- and cast the brilliant Gordon Pinsent and Julie Christie as a couple dealing with Alzheimer's disease. But her work behind the camera is equally impressive and it's a solid performance all around.

1. Atanarjuat (2001)

Early reviews declared Atanarjuat an "instant classic" -- a game of Russian roulette for critics. But at the other end of the decade, it rings true. The film brings alive an Inuit folk tale about the nature of evil, passed down through oral tradition for hundreds of years. Director Zacharias Kunuk tells the story with as much realism as possible, shooting everything in a documentary style, and letting the Arctic's sublime landscape speak for itself.

CLICK HERE to view the full article and put your two cents in.

It's Power Hour time! Join us at our next event - FREE for CWC Members!

Thank you to everyone who filled out our Power Hour survey. We have been collecting your input and "the survey says"... at our next Power Hour event you want to learn more about pitching and producing interactive media!

Following a great turnout at our first Power Hour event in October, CWC Manitoba Region is pleased to announce our next Power Hour event on Wednesday, January 20 - Pitching and Producing Interactive Media.

Our special guest Ryan FitzGerald, President and CEO of Rogue Nation Studios and Executive Director of Fortune Cat Games Studio will share his experiences and answer our questions about interactive media.

The Power Hour is a casual after-work get together where you can nibble on appetizers, mingle with your peers and learn about communications industry topics of interest or concern to you. Appetizers will be provided courtesy of our venue, The District Cocktail Lounge!

Introduce a friend or colleague to CWC for only $10! This event is FREE for CWC Members. FREE wireless available at the venue - bring your laptop!

Why Attend?
Converging technology and the proliferation of content consumed outside traditional broadcast mediums presents:
opportunities for content creators to tell stories in new ways, reach new audiences and reach larger audiences AND
opportunities for businesses to extend the brand experience and attract and engage the consumer in new ways.

If you have questions about what interactive media is, how to create interactive media content, who you can work with on interactive media projects, how to pitch interactive projects, markets for interactive product, or what funding is available to help you develop and produce interactive projects, then this workshop is for you!

Details
Date: Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Time: 5 - 6:30 p.m. (Appetizers and mingling at 5 p.m., workshop begins at 5:30 p.m.) Cash Bar
Location: The District Cocktail Lounge, 177 Lombard Avenue

Members: Free (Online registration is required)
Non-Members: $10 (Online registration is required)
All Prices include GST (R130652902)
*Members who have registered for the 2009-2010 Full-Season Subscription DO NOT have to register for this event! You're already on the list!

Register Now!
Online registration deadline is January 18, 2010

Our cancellation policy allows for refunds up to 3 days before the event, after which we regret that we will not be able to offer you a refund.

About Ryan FitzGerald

Ryan FitzGerald has written for linear and non-linear media in film, TV and new media. He is an alumnus of the Canadian Film Centre Media Lab’s Interactive Art & Entertainment Program and the National Screen Institute’s Features First Program which launched funded development of the feature film Chroma and its own alternate reality game, Ars Finium. Ryan was selected for the National Screen Institute’s inaugural playWRITE Program. He has taught convergence media nationally for both the Cultural Human Resources Council and the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network. He is on the advisory board of New Media Manitoba and the Winnipeg Chapter of the International Game Developers Association. Ryan is currently the President & CEO of Rogue Nation Studios and the Executive Director of the game development incubator Fortune Cat Games Studio. He lives in Winnipeg with his family and three-legged dog named Typo.

Upcoming Events

January 15, 2010: CWC-AFC Webinar: Privacy 2.0 with Sacha Fraser, Xerox Canada FREE for CWC Members!
January 20, 2010: Pitching and Producing Interactive Media Power Hour
February 9, 2010: 5th Annual Key Communicators Luncheon

Upcoming events at Cinematheque from January 6 to January 14, 2010.

Cinematheque reopened on January 2, 2010 following the completion of a few renovations to our theatre. We have added a new stage in order to accomodate the various concerts, discussion panels and cinematic events that we have planned for our audiences this year. The following newsletter outlines some of the events happening in the next week and half. For information about theatre rentals or screenings, please contact our Cinematheque Operations Coordinator, Kristy Muckosky at kristy@winnipegfilmgroup.com. We look forward to seeing you in the new year!

PROM NIGHT IN MISSISSIPPI
Wed. Jan 6 at 7:00 PM
Thu. Jan 7 at 9:00 PM

In 1997, Academy Award-winning actor Morgan Freeman offered to pay for the senior prom at Charleston High School in Mississippi under one condition: the prom had to be racially integrated. His offer was ignored. In 2008, Freeman offered again and this time the school board accepted; and history was made.

GOOD HAIR
Wed. Jan 6 at 9:00 PM
Thu. Jan 7 at 7:00 PM

Good Hair is an amusing, poignant and surprisingly candid look at the topic of black women's hair culture with a disarming Chris Rock coaxing answers and opinions from an eclectic cross section of African Americans.

GENIUS WITHIN: THE INNER LIFE OF GLENN GOULD ($5.00 Admission for Groundswell Subscribers)
Fri. Jan 8 at 7:00 PM (Opening night introduction by Diana MacIntosh of Groundswell)
Sat. Jan 9 at 7:00 PM
Sun. Jan 10 at 7:00 PM

A poet, a figure of mystery and a musical genius, world renowned pianist Glenn Gould continues to captivate us twenty seven years after his untimely death. This new film weaves together an array of never before seen film footage, photographs and excerpts from Gould’s private home recordings and diaries.

BEST OF OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL ANIMATION TOUR 2009
Fri. Jan 8 at 9:00 PM
Sat. Jan 9 at 9:00 PM
Sun. Jan 10 at 4:00 PM
Wed. Jan 13 at 10:00 PM
Thu. Jan 14 at 9:00 PM

A fabulous showcase of outstanding animated films from around the world selected from the 2009 Ottawa International Animation Festival.

CLICK HERE to download the Jan / Feb Schedule for the Cinematheque

CALL FOR ENTRIES
Canada at Game Connection
San Francisco, United States, March 8 to 10, 2010
(New Media)

Telefilm Canada through the Canada New Media Fund (CNMF) Presents Canada at Game Connection AMERICA GDC (San Francisco) 2010

Offer
A discount of 30% on an accreditation / registration package for Canadian video game developers exhibiting as sellers under the Canada banner at the next Game Connection event in San Francisco at GDC (USA, March 8-10, 2010).

Don’t miss out on this opportunity, only 16 spots available!

Service Providers are invited to find out more about our offer in the attached information document.

Information and registration procedure
Application form

Application deadline for this event : January 7, 2010

Eligibility
Please review the information and registration procedure for all details and entry procedures.

Game Connection is one of the main business events for the videogame industry. It is an international marketplace for game developers, service providers and publishers looking to expand their network and find the right business partners.

Consult the complete list of current calls for entries

National and International Business Development
Telefilm Canada, Montréal
514 283-6363 
 

2nd ANNUAL MANITOBA FILM & MUSIC SHOWCASE
brought to you by Rogers
*FREE PUBLIC EVENT*

SUNDAY, JANUARY 31, 2010
2:00PM – 4:30PM
DOORS OPEN AT 1:00PM
CENTENNIAL CONCERT HALL
WINNIPEG, MANITOBA

MANITOBA FILM & MUSIC is hosting the 2nd Annual Manitoba Film & Music Showcase, brought to you by Rogers. It’s a FREE public event filled with multiple genres of music, film and television entertainment, including local music acts, The Weakerthans, Grand Analog, Romi Mayes, Fred Penner, Nathan, JP Hoe, Harlequin, Billy Joe Green, Quinzy, Daniel ROA, Domenica, Paper Moon, and Record of the Week Club with Mike Petkau. The showcase will feature an up close and personal interview with director Gary Yates (High Life, Seven Times Lucky); screenings of the animated short Runaway (directed by Cordell Barker in conjunction with the National Film Board of Canada), Cubicle Land, (Original Pictures), Live at the West End (Low Budget Productions); spotlights on Farpoint Films, Frantic Films, the National Screen Institute - Canada and the National Film Board of Canada and a live aerial silks performance from filmmaker/aerial artist, Talia Pura, whose short film, Aerial Artistry has been chosen to represent Manitoba in the upcoming 2010 Olympics in Vancouver this February.

MANITOBA FILM & MUSIC’s CEO, Carole Vivier stated, “After last year’s first showcase, we received a unanimous response from participants, industry professionals and the general public to bring the showcase back in 2010. With the amount of creative talent we have in our Province, we could put on the event every year for decades. We look forward once again to showcasing the creativity that exists in our music and film communities: providing information to Manitobans on how to enter and further develop their music and film skills through various booths on site and facilitating the networking that takes place on all kinds of levels in one central location. This year’s line up is an exciting one which wouldn’t be possible without all of the talent in the show and those who support them, who are just as passionate as we are to continue to grow and flourish Manitoba’s film and music industries.”

After the event, attendees will have a chance to interact with leaders in Manitoba’s film and music support organizations, training facilities and membership associations including; Manitoba Music, On Screen Manitoba, Film Training Manitoba, Winnipeg Film Group, National Screen Institute - Canada as well as the opportunity to purchase artist merchandise.

The title sponsor of the Manitoba Film & Music Showcase is Rogers. Additional sponsors and partners for the event include, Centennial Concert Hall, CBC Radio 2 98.3 FM, CBC News Winnipeg at 5, 5:30 and 6 pm and Late Night, Uptown Magazine, The Fairmont Winnipeg, Chocolatier Constance Popp, Manitoba Production Centre, Chocolate Zen Bakery, On Screen Manitoba, Manitoba Music, Film Training Manitoba, Winnipeg Film Group, National Screen Institute and the National Film Board of Canada.

MANITOBA FILM & MUSIC exists so our film and music industries flourish and is a statutory corporation funded by the Province of Manitoba through the Department of Culture, Heritage and Tourism. Visit us online at www.mbfilmmusic.ca.

For more information and interviews, contact:

Tannis Scott
Communications & Marketing Representative
MANITOBA FILM & MUSIC
410-93 Lombard Avenue
Winnipeg, MB. R3B 3B1
Mobile: 204.791.8535
Office: 204. 947.2040 x 16
email: tannis@mbfilmmusic.ca 
web site: www.mbfilmmusic.ca

Registration Discounts available through our Association Partners

History Makers is pleased to be partnering with a number of Producer and Industry Associations in 2010, and we would like to thank them for helping promote our event through 2009. Members of the following organizations receive a discount on registration fees:

AG DOK (Germany)
The Association of Commercial Stock Image Licensors (ACSIL)
Canadian Film and Television Producers Association (CFTPA)
Documentary Organization of Canada (DOC)
European Documentary Network (EDN)
FOCAL International (UK)
International Documentary Association (IDA) (USA)
On Screen Manitoba (Canada)
PACT (UK)
US Independents (USA)
Women in Film and Television Toronto (WIFT) (Canada)

For more information about the discount, please contact regsitration@achillesmedia.com

Click here to register now

Receive a hotel discount if you register for History Makers now!
History Makers is happy to offer registered delegates a reduced rate at our host hotel, the Grand Hyatt New York. The preferred rate is only available until January 8th, 2010 and will be honored from January 26-29, 2010.

Bring your lunch and join the National Screen Institute’s social media maven

Liz Hover

as she breaks down the hurdles to understanding Twitter, Facebook and sets you up with your social media tool kit.

Wed. Jan. 13 – What is Twitter and how can it help my business?
Wed. Jan. 20 – How to get your message out through Facebook
Wed. Jan. 27 – Your social media tool kit – it’s not just Twitter and Facebook

Where are the seminars?
NSI Aboriginal Training Centre – 400-141 Bannatyne Avenue, Winnipeg.

When do the seminars take place?
Wednesdays (January 13, 20, 27) from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.

How much do the seminars cost?
$10 per session (Cash only, receipts available)

Should I pre-register?
Yes please, space is limited. Call Chris Vajcner at (204) 957-2998.

What should I bring?
Your lunch and your questions. We’ll provide the coffee and the answers!

About Liz Hover
Liz is a self-described web-chick and internet geek with a background in marketing and communications. She puts her passion for the web to work at the National Screen Institute managing their website and social media presence. Liz believes Twitter is one of the most educational tools a marketer can include in their toolkit and her dedication to social media and online marketing brought NSI into the Web 2.0 world. On her blog at lizhover.com, Liz writes about building your brand online, the social web and web design. Liz and her beloved Shih Tzu Sadie are avid bloggers, tweeters and Facebookers.

About the National Screen Institute
The National Screen Institute - Canada (NSI) is a national training school widely known for its prestigious training programs for Canadian writers, directors and producers working in film and television. Most programs are part-time so students keep their day jobs while they train. Participants do not have to relocate – intensive training happens in one place and participants return home to work with a mentor for the rest of their program. All training is delivered by senior industry experts.

Tonight sees the premiere of two of our new series:

Pitchin' In (from Frantic's subdivision Red Apple Productions) premieres on Food Network at 9pm Central, 10pm Eastern. It follows renowned chef Lynn Crawford as she travels across North America, meeting farmers and learning about sustainable food production.

Click here to visit the Pitchin' In page on the Food Network.

Click here for a sneak peak of the first season.

Also from Frantic Films, check out:

The Winnipeg Comedy Festival premieres on CBC at 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern and runs for the next 5 weeks. Tonight's theme: The Deadly Seven, a comedic examination of the 7 deadly sins.

The internationally renowned CBC Winnipeg Comedy Festival Television Series features five hours of stand-up comedy from some of North America's best comedic talent. Politically charged funnyman and viral video star Marc Maron, Whose Line Is It Anyway's Kathryn Greenwood, ABC's Shark Tank billionaire Kevin O'Leary, comedy circuit faves Tim Steeves and Bob Smith and oddball Kids in the Hall alum Kevin McDonald are just a handful of the hysterical perfomers who find the funny in specially themed episodes: Savings & Groans, The Holiday Show, Queer as Jokes, Cradle to the Grave and The Seven Deadly Sins.

The CBC Winnipeg Comedy Festival Television Series will be airing every Monday night on CBC until February 22, 2010. You don’t want to miss a single episode!

Congratulations to OSM member Inferno Pictures who received funding from the Corus Made with Pay Fund!

One Blood
Inferno Pictures Inc.
Screenwriters: Hubert Davis, Mike Derderian
Winnipeg, MB

Administered by Movie Central, the Corus Made with Pay Fund provides financial support to Canadian television and film productions at various stages of development. Since 2003, the Fund has contributed $11 million in financing towards the development of feature-length films and original television drama series.

Click Here for the full list of Corus Made with Pay Fund recepients

The next deadline for new applications for funding from the Corus Made with Pay Fund will be February 3, 2010. Applicants should note that new submission deadlines were implemented September 2009, shifting deadlines to September, February and June.

Details on the application process, guidelines and deadlines for the Corus Made with Pay Fund are available on Corus Entertainment’s website at www.corusent.com under Television, in the Industry and Talent Development section.

CBC, Digital Rights Group and the online film community Filmaka are running a competition to find the next hit TV format. Filmaka members are focusing on ideas for reality or game shows.

Entrants must submit a "visually enhanced" written pitch -- for anything from a classic studio-based show to some sort of reality hybrid. Entries will be judged by DRG and CBC's in-house development team, after which five entrants will win funds to shoot 15-minute pilots and those pilots will be considered by professional television development executives for development.

DRG and CBC are open-minded about the type of show they're looking for. It could be a classic studio based game show (like Who Wants To Be A Millionaire or Deal or No Deal), it could be a primetime entertainment format (Dancing With the Stars), it could be a show which challenges contestants physically or puts them into extreme situations (American Gladiators, Fear Factor) or it could be a reality/game show hybrid (Survivor, Temptation Island). But whatever it is, your idea must be new and unique!

Your pitches must be uploaded to Filmaka by 24:00 on Sunday, January 24th, 2010.

More details at www.filmaka.com/gameshow

LINDA TOOLEY
(July 27, 1948 – December 25, 2009)

The happiness of the drop is to die in the river.

After demonstrating inspirational courage during a short fight with cancer, and surrounded by friends and family, Linda peacefully slipped away to a better place on Christmas Day. Born in Grace Hospital on Arlington Street to Doris and Bill Pankiw, Linda grew up on Alfred Avenue in Winnipeg’s North End, attending Margaret Scott School, King Edward School and Tec Voc. She worked in radio, advertising, retail and during the 1980s, created and operated IF you have to get dressed in the morning, Winnipeg’s premiere vintage clothing store on Corydon Avenue. For the last decade, as film liaison for the City of Winnipeg Film and Special Events Office, Linda negotiated City services that helped smooth the making of everything from major motion pictures to director’s first films to music videos and commercials. An ally of the arts and film industries, she felt comfortable with creative people. Video art and photography were her personal artistic outlets. She had a keen eye for incongruent scenes, architectural details and sky/earth connections. Linda was creative, witty, empathetic, capable and kind – qualities the world needs now more than ever. Linda had a special affinity for animals. She adored her cats Teedy and Tulu, knew the names of all the neighbourhood pets who could always count on a chin scritch from Linda. She loved to explore the prairies. Her favourite hiking spot was the Spirit Sands to which she returned time and again. Linda had a spiritual connection with nature that kept her strong, focused and helped her through her final journey. Predeceased by her father in 1994 and her mother in 2004, Linda leaves to mourn her loving husband and life partner of 33 years Reid Dickie, best friend Kenny Boyce, dear friends Garcea Diehl and Alex Rosales, aunts, cousins and scores of good friends too numerous to mention. Her family thanks the doctors, nurses and unit assistants at Health Sciences Centre GA5 and at Riverview E3 for their compassionate care, and all of Linda’s friends and co-workers who sent expressions of healing, love and concern. She appreciated every one. Cremation by Wojcik’s Funeral Chapel and Crematorium has occurred. A private service will be held later. In lieu of flowers, Linda suggested a donation to Quagga Stray Cat Rescue (204-237-1958), D’Arcy’s Animal Rescue Centre (204-888-2266) or a charity of your choice.

What we were, we are.
What we had, we have.
So when you walk the woods
where once we walked together
And scan in vain the dappled bank
beside you for my shadow,
Or pause where we always did upon the hill
to gaze across the land,
And spotting something, reach by habit for my hand,
And finding none,
feel sorrow start to steal upon you,
Be still.
Close your eyes.
Breathe.
Listen for my footfall in your heart.
I am not gone but merely walk within you