I'm a former filmmaker, screenwriter, and a professional lighting technician in film/tv in Toronto. I've produced seven short films, and a massive pile of screenplays. I produced six of my short films in Vancouver, and one in Toronto. It's always been a challenge getting support in Canada; my short films and screenplays have done so much better in festivals/competitions in the states than in Canada.
I won't go on too long about my own experiences here. I recently started helping out the "Independent Producers Guild" with attracting Canadian filmmakers and producers to the Guild. This post is not meant to exclude people from outside of Canada, your views on Canadian filmmaking are also welcome.
As Canadian filmmakers, what are your greatest concerns, or what do you desire the most out of the industry? I know, for me personally, I want to connect more with creators outside of Canada, and build new bridges. The Canadian industry gets a lot of funding from the government, which serves their objectives more than that of producers and audiences. It also scares off private funders "why would I give you money, if the Canadian government and Telefilm won't?" I also find that other film hubs, outside of Canada, are more open to a wider variety of different stories and styles.
You can learn more about me at www.angrybearfilms.com, and the IPG at http://independentproducersguild.org/
3 people like this
Shane is such a talented filmmaker who has done it all on his productions. What a great opportunity to learn from someone with this enormous experience. Thanks, Ashley Renee Smith!...
Expand commentShane is such a talented filmmaker who has done it all on his productions. What a great opportunity to learn from someone with this enormous experience. Thanks, Ashley Renee Smith!
2 people like this
Love Shane! Took his class and he was full of great info. So helpful to everyone.
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Agreed, Sam Sokolow! And he's providing such great and in-depth answers to everyone's questions today. It's awesome!