Award-winning global media company, marblemedia along with broadcast partners BYUtv (US) and TVOkids (Canada) announce their premiere dates for season 5 of the high-octane series All-Round Champion. Season 5 is set to air first on BYUtv on Sunday, January 15 at 5pm PT, followed by TVOkids on Wednesday, February 8 at 5pm ET. This latest season comes at the heels of the series winning Best Childrenâs or Youth Non-Fiction Program or Series at the 2022 Canadian Screen Awards.
For the first time in All-Round Champion history, Season 5 will feature a cast fully comprised of para-athletesâcompetitors with physical disabilities. However, true to the format, they wonât be competing in their own sports; theyâll be competing in each otherâs to see how proficient they can become in a new sport in a short period of time. To reach this goal, they must excel beyond their own expectations. They must learn new skills, persevere, overcome their own physical and mental limits, and most importantly, adapt their abilities to the sport and the sportsâ equipment. The athlete with the most points at the end of the season will be crowned the All-Round Champion!
The talented athletes and their sports this season are Brayden Butler (Climbing), Bradley Pedrick (Sailing), Dominic Demaio (Rowing), Gurnoor Chouhan (Goalball), Jackson Atwood (Wheelchair Basketball), Lily Brook (Adaptive Boxing), Maggie Manning (Sledge Hockey), Momo Sutton (Swimming), and Samantha Fraser (Track).
The 10-episode, 60-minute series is hosted by Olympian and World Champion Perdita Felicien, who brings mentorship to the young athletes, along with weekly sports stars that coach and encourage the participants through their respective sports. For this fifth season, some of the sports stars include Britainâs most successful Paralympic sailor, Helena Lucas; four-time Paralympic swimming gold medalist, McKenzie Coan; 31-time Canadian track champion, Josh Cassidy; and Matt Scott, a two-time Paralympic champion in wheelchair basketball and the first disabled athlete featured in a Nike commercial.
âAt its ethos, the series has always been about determination, excellence, and passion. There is no one better to showcase this than the tremendous cohort of para-athletes we have lined up. This is an exceptional season of All-Round Champion, and we are confident audiences will be as excited about it as we are,â said Matt Hornburg, Executive Producer and Co-CEO of marblemedia.
âAlthough All-Round Champion is an intense competition show at its core, it shines a light on the resilience of the human spirit and the strengthening of bonds between teammates and mentors,â said Andra Johnson Duke, Head of Content at BYUtv. âAll-Round Champion has captured the imaginations of young people and their parents over the course of many seasons, and thereâs no question that this exciting new iteration will continue to engage and inspire viewers to want to push harder, do better, and be better.â
âWe love All-Round Champion because of how it celebrates developing a growth mindset, which is a critical skill set for children and youth of all ages,â says Kirsten Hurd, Executive Producer at TVOkids. âThrough each moment of competition, our viewers witness young people taking on unfamiliar challenges and strategizing how to win. With its focus on para-athletes, Season 5 will be a landmark moment for the series.â
All-Round Champion is adapted from the wildly successful Norwegian Best i mest (NRK), which won an International Emmy Kids Award for Non-Scripted Entertainment, as well as a Prix Jeunesse. marblemedia was granted North American format rights from Beta Film.
Executive Producers of the series include Matthew Hornburg, Mark J.W. Bishop, Steve Sloan, and co-Executive Producer Donna Luke for marblemedia, Jeff Simpson and Andra Johnson Duke for BYUtv, and Kirsten Hurd for TVO. Perdita Felicien also serves as Producer.
(Photo credit: TVO)
The Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame (CSHF) is pleased to announce its newest Inductees: Ralph Cole, Paul Hoffert, Bob McBride, and Skip Prokop – songwriters and members of one of Canadaâs most iconic bands, Lighthouse â who will be honoured October 17, 2022 at the 2022 SOCAN Awards, recognizing the achievements of Canada’s most prestigious songwriters, composers, and music publishers.
Lighthouseâs brand of free-wheeling, high-spirited jazz-rock-classical fusion took North America by storm starting with their debut in May 1969 at Torontoâs Rock Pile. The eclectic group of musicians included co-founders Prokop, who was a member of the psychedelic rock band The Paupers, and Hoffert, who was a classically trained jazz pianist and composer for film and theatre. Along with other members including guitar virtuoso Cole, Lighthouse would bring together their diverse musical backgrounds to form a new band and new sound. McBride, who had studied singing with Johnny Mathis and toured with Ronnie Hawkins, would join Lighthouse in 1970 as lead vocalist.
The late Skip Prokop recalls, âWhen Lighthouse first went out there, we were doing fusion before we even knew there was a word called âfusion.ââ
Fast forward five decades and a storied catalogue of hits including Sunny Days, One Fine Morning, Pretty Lady, Take it Slow (Out in the Country) and Hats Off (To The Stranger), ensure that Lighthouse will deservedly take its place in Canadian music history with the inductions of Cole, Hoffert, McBride and Prokop during a celebration and tribute at the 2022 SOCAN Awards in the bandâs hometown of Toronto, ON. Anthem Entertainment is the presenting partner of the Lighthouse induction.
âLighthouseâs contribution to music is immense. Spanning over 5 decades, and still creating extraordinary works we are proud to represent the music of Lighthouse as their publisher and as their label. We are most excited about the future. Congratulations to all of the members of this iconic group, Lighthouse you are still a shining beacon of classic Jazz-Rock-Fusion and will be for years to come,â said Helen Murphy, CEO Anthem Entertainment.
âLighthouse epitomized the musical liberation movement that came out of Yorkvilleâs music scene in the late 60s. They grew into a 13-member band which was unheard of at the time, were fearless in combining musical influences in their song writing, and for taking risks such as incorporating classical instruments like the flute and trombone into a rock sound,â said Nick Fedor, Director, CSHF. âTheir music is emblematic of the Canadian mosaic; all of its members coming together as one, with each person contributing their unique talents and musicality.â
Prokop and Hoffert met by chance when they were seatmates on a flight to Toronto after Prokopâs last performance with The Paupers. Prokop had an idea for a big band with a huge cinematic sound. Being familiar with Hoffertâs reputation as a jazz musician and film composer, Prokop asked if this would be something he might be interested in pursuing, and the rest is history.
Prokop knew the rock scene, and Hoffert knew the classical and jazz scenes, and together they assembled a group of musicians including guitarist Ralph Cole, whose band Thyme had great success throughout his home state of Michigan. The band began performing around Toronto, and quickly gained a loyal fanbase. The bandâs success at Carnegie Hall and the Boston Pop Festival led to performances at the Newport and Monterey jazz festivals â the first rock band to do so. Along the way, Lighthouse issued three albums in quick succession, and the singles Feel So Good and The Chant became their first national hits.
In 1970, New York producer Jimmy Einner, helped steer the bandâs writers towards creating the hit songs that have kept Lighthouse on the airwaves for more than 50 years. At the same time Lighthouse brought in Toronto-born Bob McBride whose distinctive vocals became a hallmark of the Lighthouse sound.
With these changes in direction, the band immediately scored its first Top 10 hit, the SOCAN Classic Hats Off to the Stranger (by Prokop, McBride, and Peter McGraw). Next, Prokopâs celebratory and jazzy, One Fine Morning, charted to No. 2 on RPM and Billboardâs No. 24.
Lighthouse continued its winning streak with JUNO Awards three years running from 1972 to 1974, plus a JUNO for lead singer Bob McBride. In addition to their four gold albums and platinum-selling 1972 Carnegie Hall live album, they pioneered performances with symphony orchestras, were the only band asked to perform twice at the historic Isle of Wight festival, and collaborated with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet resulting in the first Rock Ballet titled, Ballet High, that swept the nation with standing-room-only performances.
1972âs âSunny Daysâ made RPMâs top 10 album chart, its joyful title single (by Prokop) reaching Billboardâs No. 34, CHUMâs No. 10, and RPMâs No. 4. Other hit Lighthouse singles included Coleâs Take It Slow (Out in the Country) (written with Keith Jollimore and Larry Smith), Prokopâs Pretty Lady (now a SOCAN Classic), and McBrideâs and Prokopâs I Just Wanna Be Your Friend. Five Lighthouse albums have made the Billboard 200 chart.
Although the band dismantled in 1976, Prokop, Hoffert, Cole and McBride would reunite as a 10-piece band in 1992; however, within a short time, McBride was replaced by Dan Clancy whose unique ability to capture the dynamic Lighthouse sound while maintaining his own style has kept him front and centre for the past 30 years. The current band has had few changes since re-forming. When Skip Prokop retired in 2014, the band welcomed his son Jamie who is currently on leave. With the retirement this year of Ralph Cole (guitar) and Steve Kennedy (saxes and flute), the Lighthouse family now includes Marc Ganatakos (guitar), Michael Stuart (saxes and flute), Paul DeLong (drums), Doug Moore (bass), Don Paulton (keyboards), Russ Little (trombone), Chris Howells (trumpet), Simon Wallis (saxes and flute) and co-founder Paul Hoffert (keyboards and vibes).
Lighthouseâs 40th anniversary was marked by the release of Forty Years of Sunny Days, a compilation that included 16 classic hits along with a DVD of the current band performing the same hits. A new double-album set will be released next year.
While maintaining a touring schedule with Lighthouse, Prokop, Hoffert, Cole and McBride continued to expand their horizons. Cole established a successful jingle production company, produced many artists including Shirley Eikhard and was a sought-after session musician. McBride released several singles, such as the hit Pretty City Lady, and several solo albums one of which went gold before his untimely death in 1998.
Hoffert continued to compose and conduct original music for film and television. His 1979 album âConcerto for Contemporary Violinâ won a JUNO Award for best engineering. He established a research centre at York University in the 80s and his expertise in digital copyright law resulted in Faculty positions at Harvard University and the University of Toronto. Hoffert received the Order of Canada in 2004 for his contribution to music and the arts.
And Prokop released several albums including âSmoothsideâ, which was awarded Jazz Album of the Year at the 2012 Hamilton Music Awards. He was a producer, session player, and radio show host before passing away in 2017.
Ralph Cole, Paul Hoffert, Bob McBride, and Skip Prokop will be honoured during the SOCAN Awards on October 17th in Toronto, ON, and with a permanent exhibit inside the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fameâs home at the National Music Centre in Calgary, which features a celebrated catalogue of inducted songs that fans can listen to in addition to displays, exclusive artifacts and one-of-a-kind memorabilia celebrating Canadaâs greatest songwriters and Inductees.
The CSHF is pleased to acknowledge the sponsor of this induction, Anthem Entertainment.
For more information about the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame go to www.cshf.ca.
The 22nd Reelworld Film Festival officially unveils its full festival line-up with 34 films and free industry panels, continuing its mission to feature Canadian filmmakers who are Black, Indigenous, Asian, South Asian and People of Colour. Running from October 12th â 18, 2022, the festival makes its return in-person and online with screenings and industry events taking place at various iconic Toronto locations The Royal Theatre (608 College St),The Paradise (1006c Bloor St W) , and The ROM (100 Queens Park).
Passes are now available for purchase at www.reelworld.ca/festival.
The Reelworld Film Festival showcases a wide variety of genres in narrative and documentary features and shorts. As a filmgoer, whether in person or online, you will enjoy the dramatic storytelling, hard-hitting documentaries, witty comedies and thoughtful abstractions that the 22nd Reelworld Film Festival selections will offer. Online screenings are geo-blocked to Ontario.
Reelworld is excited to announce this yearâs stellar lineup of feature films programed by Aisha Evelyna, Marina Hanna, Reza Sameni, Safia Abdigir, and Pahull Bains, which includes:
GOLDEN DELICIOUS by Jason Karman (Opening night film)
When basketball-obsessed Aleks moves in across the street, Asian-Canadian teen Jake finds himself trying out for the basketball team to get his attention in this classic coming-of-age drama set in the digital age.
THE MYTH OF THE BLACK WOMAN by Ayana OâShun
The Myth of the Black Woman is a feature-length documentary that investigates the images of Black women in Western societies, from the hypersexual Jezebel to the lovable Nurse to the sassy âBitch.â The film works to break down The Myth by featuring a diverse group of women and a wealth of realities rarely seen on screen and supported by engrossing archival footage from the 1800s to the present day.
BITE OF A MANGO by Ron Dias
After a casual hook up between Jayne and Tray in the early stages of lockdown, Jayne, a strikingly independent half-Nigerian half-Jamaican woman, is left feeling alone in dealing with an unplanned pregnancy. In Jayneâs absence, Tray seeks the friendship of an old flame only to realize how he truly feels about Jayne.
DEAR JACKIE by Henri Pardo
Dear Jackie is a cinematic letter to Jackie Robinson, the first Black man to play in Major League Baseball, after a stint with the minor-league Montreal Royals, and a key contributor to the civil rights movement in the United States. The film addresses Robinson directly and recounts the current situation of the Black community in Little Burgundy, once known as the âHarlem of the North,â drawing interesting parallels between the two eras. Through eloquent interviews, testimonies, and powerful veritĂ© moments in black and white, Dear Jackie paints a portrait of racism and racial inequality in Montreal and Quebec as a whole.
KITE ZO A by Kaveh Nabatian
Kite Zo A (Leave the Bones) is a sensorial film about rituals in Haiti, from ancient to modern, made in collaboration with poets, dancers, musicians, fishermen, daredevil rollerbladers, and Vodou priests, set to poetry by Haitian author Wood-Jerry Gabriel.
EXEGESIS: LOVECRAFT by Qais Pasha
A cathartic journey that Qais Pasha, a Pakistani-Canadian filmmaker embarks on as he traces the life of cult author H.P. Lovecraft, from woodland cemeteries in Rhode Island, to the docks of New York and on to the cobbled stone streets of Quebec City. A head first dive into the division at the heart of weird fiction, wherein Qais encounters everything from Lovecraftâs ghost to the various writers, artists and researchers battling over the soul of Lovecraftâs legacy.
TZOUHALEM by Harold C. Joe and Leslie D. Bland
This documentary examines the near-mythic figure of Cowichan Chief Tzouhalem, the account of his life from both historians and First Nations Elders, the folkloric tales concerning him, his impact on the modern relationship between the Crown and First Nations, and how his legend remains alive to this day, examining critically how his story has been told and passed down to us.
PATTERN by Ivan Madeira
It is five months after the death of Curtisâ partner Mia due to post-birth complications. As the initial fog of grief starts to lift, he is at a crossroads of how he wants to raise their daughter Salom.
RESET by Min Bae
South Koreaâs worst maritime disaster traumatized a nation while simultaneously sinking the countryâs emotional spirit, resulting in the death of 304 passengers.
SUMMER WITH HOPE by Sadaf Foroughi
Young swimmer, Omid (whose name means âhopeâ in Persian), along with his mother, Leili, and uncle, Saadi, have each placed their individual fates on one vital upcoming swimming competition. In the days and hours before the meet, however, the consequences of failure become clear for each â all of which falls heavily on Omidâs shoulders as a responsibility he refuses to bear. As their community’s jealousy steadily erodes the familyâs façade, layer by layer, to find whatever weakness they can, the family itself also begins to crumble like sand under the weight of the encroaching tide.
This yearâs short films have been curated into four different programs:
IDENTITY – programmed by Safia Abdigir
Identity formation is always in struggle when the validity of that formation is denied by those around you. From queer exploration in youth to defying the odds of being an older athlete, the filmmakers in this program focus on the internal rumination of understanding rejection in relation to environments, families and careers and what that means for an individual navigating even the mundatity of life. Films included: Better at Texting directed by Mary Galloway, More Than Hair directed by Fitch Jean, Glass Doll directed by Omorose Osagie, Blue Honey directed by Valeriya Khan, Imran & Alykhan directed by Shakil Jessa, Blue Garden directed by Natalie Murao, and The Last Shot directed by Roble Issa.
HOME – programmed by Reza Sameni
Each year filmmakers from across Canada bring fresh perspectives to the festivalâs long-running “Home” Program and add a new layer of nuance to the definition of “home.” Pushing it beyond the familiar portrayal of a four-wall construction to a thought-provoking artwork stemming from each filmmaker’s unique life experience in search of a comfort zone. Films included: I Live Here directed by Tyler Evans, Saturday Night Fuego directed by Anita Abbasi, The Interview directed by Magdi Omar, I Remember the Footprints directed by Cazhhmere Downey, Viper directed by Raine Stephen LeMay, and Ahu directed by Mahsa Razavi.
CHOICES AND CONSEQUENCES – programmed by Marina Hanna
As in life, a choice made in a story can seal a characterâs fateâwhether they realize it or not. Minds may change and choices do face challenges, but choices set wheels in motion. For writers and directors plotting the course of a story, choices are also used to reveal character. The films in this category maximize tension by placing their protagonists in high-stake scenarios. Their choices are informed not only by their character but by their culture. Films included: There Are No Children Here directed by Shehrezade Mian, Unspoken Agreements directed by Marianna Phung, Split Ends directed by Alireza Kazemipour, Call me AWOL directed by Georgie Trifa, Everything WIll Be Alright directed by Farhad Pakdel.
ALTERNATE WORLDS – programmed by Aisha Evelyna
With a pandemic still not entirely in the rearview, itâs sometimes easy to wonder if we ourselves are living in an alternate world. Thankfully, these filmmakers dare to take us to new places on screen. This program of films is grounded in the present but are also fiercely optimistic, innovative, and imaginative. Films included: PB & J directed by Richard Lee, Mom vs Machine directed by Tesh Guttikonda, Vitamin directed by Natalia Aranguren & Yeimy Daza, Out of this World directed by Jerry Wolf, Peace Pipeline directed by Gitz Crazyboy & Tito Ybarra, and Omi directed by Kelly Fyffe-Marshall.
Reelworld prioritizes its programming to support and amplify underrepresented Canadian voices. The Festivalâs Industry Panels, Workshops and Networking events are consciously designed to enhance opportunities for racialized Canadian talent in the entertainment industry. This year, the festival will be featuring free in-person panels on October 14th at Rogers Communications Inc. (333 Bloor St E) including Producing Live Unscripted Shows by Canada Media Fund and Responsible Storytelling by Directors Guild of Canada (DGC) National. Additionally, virtual panels will also be held on October 17th including Talent to Watch: Creating a Strong Application by Telefilm Canada, Thereâs a Song for Every Scene: Tips for Finding the Right Music for Every Production by Music Publishers Canada and Creating a Successful Team by the Independent Producer Fund.
The festival wraps up with the 22nd annual Film Festival Awards Show on October 18th which will be streamed on YouTube. This year, Reelworld Film Festival is proud to present two cash awards: $25,000 for Outstanding Feature Film and $10,000 for Outstanding Short Film. This yearâs award sponsors include DGC National, WIFT-Toronto, Entertainment Partners Canada, Chargefield, AstroLab Studios, Lenz Rental and Asian Television Network. Feature and Short award categories this year include Outstanding Actress, Outstanding Actor, Outstanding Director, Outstanding Writer, Outstanding Cinematographer, Outstanding Producer, and Outstanding Film. Audience members are also encouraged to participate and rate the films they watch and contribute to the selection of the Reelworld Audience Choice Award.
In addition to the film awards, the Festival recognizes Industry leaders at all levels through the Trailblazer Award, Visionary Award, and Award of Excellence. This yearâs winners are: Trailblazer Award: Barbara Ka Yee Lee, Joel Oulette, Jorge Ousmane, Kelly Fyffe-Marshall, Shant Joshi, and Sonya Carey; Visionary Award: Nicholas Davis, and the Award of Excellence recipient Jennifer Podemski. The Reelspeak Festival Edition will stream on the Reelworld Screen Institute Youtube channel On October 18th following the 22nd annual Film Festival Awards Show.
With a focus on diverse works by diverse people, the Reelworld Film Festival showcases and supports Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour producers, directors, screenwriters, actors and all on and off-screen talent. They connect with agents, casting directors, broadcasters and distributors, invite them to the festival, and help them find new Canadian talent. The Reelworld Film Festival programming reflects the strong and authentic voices from across Canada and features 100% Canadian Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour talent. As the countryâs largest socially impactful film festival, Reelworld has reached a diverse audience of over 350,000 engaged individuals to date.
About Reelworld
Reelworld was founded in 2000 by award-winning actress and producer Tonya Williams to advance opportunities for
Canadians who are Black, Indigenous, Asian, South Asian, and People of Colour in the screen industries by providing
professional development and advocating for racial equity in Canadian content and production.
Reelworld Screen Institute, a non-profit, provides training programs and presents the acclaimed Reelworld Film Festival, which celebrates stories by racialized Canadians. Providing access to opportunities is core to Reelworld, and Access Reelworld is Canadaâs leading hiring platform for racialized crews and talent. Reelworld Foundation, a registered charity,is transforming the industry by creating mechanisms that hold systems accountable for greater equity.
Additional Honourees have been announced for this year’s TIFF TRIBUTE GALA at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival.
Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, is delighted to announce that Academy AwardÂźâwinning Icelandic artist and composer Hildur GuĂ°nadĂłttir will be honoured with the Variety Artisan Award, and that Award-winning Welsh Egyptian filmmaker and screenwriter Sally El Hosaini will be honoured with the TIFF Emerging Talent Award presented by MGM at the annual TIFF Tribute Awards. Now in its fourth year, the TIFF Tribute Awards presented by BVLGARI will return to an in-person gala fundraiser during the 47th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival on Sunday, September 11 at Fairmont Royal York Hotel.
GuĂ°nadĂłttir composed the score for Sarah Polleyâs highly anticipated film Women Talking, a fearless adaptation of Miriam Toewsâ acclaimed novel set in 2010 rural America, where the women of an isolated religious community grapple with reconciling their reality with their faith, starring Rooney Mara, Claire Foy, Jessie Buckley, Judith Ivey, Ben Whishaw, and Frances McDormand. Women Talking from MGMâs Orion Pictures will have its International Premiere at the Festival on September 13 and is distributed by Universal Canada. Writer-director El Hosainiâs The Swimmers, which dramatizes the true story of two sisters who left their home in war-torn Syria for a new life in Europe and the chance to compete in the 2016 Summer Olympics, co-written by multi-award-winner Jack Thorne, will have its World Premiere as the Opening Night Gala Presentation on September 8.
âBoth Hildur GuĂ°nadĂłttir and Sally El Hosaini are singular artists who continue to expand the horizons of their disciplines,â said Bailey. âWeâre proud to present TIFF Tribute Awards to GuĂ°nadĂłttir for her remarkable score for Sarah Polleyâs Women Talking, and El Hosaini for directing one of the most urgent, moving films of the year in The Swimmers.â
The TIFF Variety Artisan Award recognizes a distinguished creative who has excelled at their craft and made an outstanding contribution to cinema and entertainment. Previous recipients of the TIFF Variety Artisan Award include Ari Wegner in 2021; Terence Blanchard in 2020; and Roger Deakins in 2019.
âVariety is honoured to be presenting Hildur GuĂ°nadĂłttir with our annual Artisan Award at the TIFF Tribute Awards,â said Variety co-editor-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh. âWe are looking forward to returning to an in-person awards programme at one of the most important festivals in the world. Highlighting Hildurâs work is a testament to Varietyâs commitment to celebrating artisans.â
The TIFF Emerging Talent Award presented by MGM, is presented in the spirit of Torontonian Mary Pickford, the groundbreaking actor, producer, and co-founder of United Artists, whose impact continues today. Previous recipients of the TIFF Emerging Talent Award include Danis Goulet in 2021; Tracey Deer in 2020; and Mati Diop in 2019.
âMGM is thrilled to join TIFF in honouring Sally El Hosaini with the 2022 TIFF Emerging Talent Award and championing this harrowing story,â said Chris Brearton, MGMâs Chief Operation Officer.
GuĂ°nadĂłttir and El Hosaini join the recently-announced list of 2022 TIFF Tribute Award honourees, including Brendan Fraser, who will receive the ââTIFF Tribute Award for Performance presented by IMDbPro; Academy AwardÂźâwinning filmmaker Sam Mendes, who will receive the TIFF Ebert Director Award; and the ensemble of My Policeman, who will receive the TIFF Tribute Award for Performance presented by Polestar. Stay tuned for more information on the 2022 TIFF Tribute Awards event and honouree announcements.
The TIFF Tribute Awards have served as an awards-season bellwether, with past honourees such as Jessica Chastain, Roger Deakins, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Joaquin Phoenix, Taika Waititi, and ChloĂ© Zhao going on to win awards on the international stage. The TIFF Tribute Awards honour the film industryâs outstanding contributors and their achievements, recognizing leading industry members, acting talent, directorial expertise, new talent, and a below-the-line artist and creator. The Awards event also serves as TIFFâs largest annual fundraiser to support TIFFâs Every Story fund, which promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in film and TIFFâs core mission to transform the way people see the world through film.
Just For Laughs TORONTO (formerly JFL42), presented by Beneva, in collaboration with SiriusXM Canada, is back in full force this September, promising to provide audiences with the ultimate comedy festival, stacked to the nines. Running in venues across Toronto from September 22 to October 1, 2022, Just For Laughs TORONTO continues to keep their word and deliver a first-rate festival experience for all with an entirely free street festival, and the expansion of their daytime convention, ComedyCON.
FREE STREET FESTIVAL
Conveniently located in the cityâs downtown core, close to transport links, this epic, three-day outdoor comedy celebration will feature an accessible site together with a varied and eclectic program of entertainment with something for everyone to enjoy â including both local and international comedians, DJs and much, much more.
Running from September 23-25, 2022, on a 130,000 sq-ft site at Front St. E and Berczy Park, the inaugural free street festival will feature a large main stage BEVENA STAGE presented by Beneva, food trucks, bars featuring Muskoka Brewery beers & Muskoka Spirits Hard Sparkling Waters, local area restaurants, art installations and other activities in collaboration with Torontoâs arts communities. The first of its kind, Just For Laughs TORONTOâs street festival will boast daytime and evening programming, including performances from an array of comedy and music performers, many of the acts reflecting Toronto in all its diversity.
âWe are delighted to be back to mark our 10th anniversary of Just For Laughs TORONTO with such an impressive lineup for this yearâs event especially with the introduction of the free street festivalâ, shares Just For Laughs president, Bruce Hills. âWe are thrilled to be collaborating with the City of Toronto to offer both locals and visitors alike the opportunity to experience free outdoor comedy shows, live music and activations while also getting the chance to see some of the biggest names in comedy as well as discover fantastic newcomers in venues across the cityâ.
âAt Beneva, we feel that laughter is indeed the best medicine, and that it contributes to our collective well-being. Thatâs why weâre proud to be the presenting partner of this popular event. Weâre even more proud that this edition of the festival will allow people from Toronto to attend, for the very first time, a series of free shows in spectacular outdoor locations. An inclusive and caring approach which is perfectly in step with our organizational values. So, I hope you load up on the laughs and have a blast at the festival! shares Martin Robert, Executive Vice-President and Leader – Talent, Culture and Communication at Beneva, the presenting partner of Just For Laughs TORONTO.
Performing on the outdoor stage as part of the street festival are:
Russell Petersâ Old School Mixtape Live – Saturday, September 24, 2022 | 9:00 PM
Whatâs better than comedy and classic hip hop and dance music? Combining all of them! Torontoâs very own Russell Peters and the legendary DJ Starting From Scratch will be hosting an unforgettable outdoor show thatâs sure to be the ultimate throwback party to squeeze that last bit of summer in. With some very special musical guests to be announced soon, get ready for this once in a lifetime free concert event in the heart of the six!
Craig Robinson & The Nasty Delicious – Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 9:00 PM
Funnyman actor/comedian Craig Robinson (The Office, Brooklyn 99) introduced his band, The Nasty Delicious, in 2007. The nine-piece crew have been electrifying audiences around the globe with their powerful fusion of Chicago-House, funk, hip hop and R & B, all topped off with Craigâs soulful voice, edgy humor, and improved crowd participation.
The members include bassist Ethan Farmer, drummer Asa Watkins, guitarist David Sampson, saxophonists Lakecia Benjamin and Reggie Hines, trumpeter Wynston Byrd, percussionist Bendji Allonce, and Craig’s younger brother and music director/keyboardist Chris âRob” Robinson. All the members of the band have their own creative projects, and have also toured and recorded with countless legendary artists across the genres, including Stevie Wonder, Lionel Ritchie, John Legend, Lauryn Hill, Chaka Khan, Beyonce, Maroon 5, Alicia Keys, Kanye West, Angie Stone, Macy Gray, Anita Baker, and many more.
Bob the Drag Queen & MonĂ©t X Change – Friday, September 23, 2022 | 9:00 PM
You better get your currency in check: Monét X Change is here with fellow drag superstar Bob the Drag Queen for a (FREE) variety show extravaganza!
They’re two of the most beloved stars in “RuPaul’s Drag Race” herstory and, together, they’re even more powerful. Bob the Drag Queen notably emerged victorious in Season 8, while MonĂ©t X Change competed in Season 10 before re-emerging in All Stars 4. After Drag Race, the pair even joined forces for their hit podcast “Sibling Rivalry” because let’s face it, chosen family is everything. This year at JFL TORONTO, these icons are hosting a stellar variety show composed of dancing, singing, laughter and fierceness. Brown. Cow. Stunning!
Bob The Drag Queen: The alter ego of non-binary comic/actor Caldwell Tidicue, âBob The Drag Queenâ describes herself as âhilarious, beautiful, talented and⊠humble.â Bobâs unabashed confidence won her the title of âAmericaâs Next Drag Superstarâ on season 8 of RuPaulâs Drag Race, multiple acting roles for HBO, Netflix, Sony Tristar, MTV, and VH1. The third season of Bobâs Emmy Award nominated HBO Max series Weâre Here is coming out at the end of 2022. Bob is also an accomplished stand-up comedian with two solo specials under his belt and a starring role in the recent Netflix comedy concert film Stand Out executive produced by Wanda Sykes. âSibling Rivalryâ â Bobâs podcast with his comedy partner MonĂ©t X Change – is now on its sixth season and is also hitting the road playing major venues in the US and Canada in the Fall of 2022 and Winter of 2023.
MonĂ©t X Change: Born and bred in New York City, MONĂT X CHANGE is a comedian, singer, and actress and one of the winningest contestants in Drag Race History. Monet was named Miss Congeniality in season 10, co-winner in All Stars season 4, and the runner up on All Stars season 7. âSibling Rivalryâ â MonĂ©tâs podcast with his comedy partner Bob the Drag Queen – is now on its sixth season and is also hitting the road playing major venues in the US and Canada in the Fall of 2022 and Winter of 2023. MonĂ©t has also recently entered the stand-up comedy space, with a sold-out tour of clubs and small theaters kicking off in the summer of 2022.
Puddles Pity Party – Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 8:00 PM
Puddles Pity Party, the 7-foot sad clown whose golden voice is comparable to rock legends like Tom Jones and Freddie Mercury, has amassed nearly 900K YouTube subscribers and performed to sold out shows all over the globe. He recently performed in Homeward Bound: A Grammy Salute to the Songs of Paul Simon for CBS and is a surprise guest on the Season 4 finale of ABCâs The Conners. Deftly combining melancholy with the absurd, his one-of-a-kind âtextured voice laced with melancholyâ (NY Times) has been hailed as âoperaticâ (Boston Globe) and his show both âlife-affirmingâ (Herald Scotland) and âhysterically funnyâ (LA Weekly). Not bad for a âloserâ from Americaâs Got Talent!
Tanika Charles – Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 4:00 PM
Toronto-based 2x Juno Award nominee and Soul music power house, Tanika Charles, has slowly but surely inserted herself as a staple of the genre both at home and abroad. Her music revels in honesty and attitude, her live show is high energy and endearing, and she continues to win audiences over one album, one stream, and one encore at a time. Tanika recently released her third album, Papillon de Nuit: The Night Butterfly. Papillon again follows Tanikaâs formula of marrying classic soul influences with modern sensibilities and features the songs âFrustratedâ, âMillion Waysâ, and the disco-infused lead single âDifferent Morningâ featuring Toronto rapper DijahSB.
Drag Me to Street, hosted by Tynomi Banks – Friday, September 23, 2022 | 7:15 PM
Now what the F is going on in here on this day? A free drag extravaganza, thatâs what! Featuring amazing drag artists from across Canada, hosted by Tynomi Banks (Canadaâs Drag Race), HercuSleaze (Call Me Mother), Miss MoÄo (Canadaâs Drag Race), Gisele Lullaby (Canadaâs Drag Race) & Toddy (Call Me Mother).
Josh Adam Meyers and The Goddamn Comedy Jam – Friday, September 23 through Sunday, September 25, 2022, daily at 6:00 PM
Every comic wants to be a rockstar and The Goddamn Comedy Jam is the intersection of comedy stardom and rock & roll dreams. Comedians will perform a stand up set and short story followed by a song of their choosing, accompanied by a live band. It is an unprecedented opportunity to shine as both a comedic star and rock God in an electrified outdoor rock concert atmosphere. Hosted by Josh Adam Meyers (Comedy Central/Netflix), and his house band, Elemenopy.
New Faces of Comedy: Canada – Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 5:15 PM
Come see the freshest Canadian comedians in the game gear up to take the microphone and change the face of comedy. These up-and-coming artists made a big splash at JFL MONTRĂAL this year, have been able to persevere through the global pandemic, perfect their craft, and are finally ready to share their talents on the Toronto stage. This year, our showcase includes Allie Pearse, Ajahnis Charley, Ben Sosa Wright, Bree Parsons, Clare Belford, Conner Christmas, Laura Leibow, Malik Elassal, Mike Green, and Wassim El-Mounzer.
DJ Cipha Sounds – Saturday, September 24, 2022 | 7:00 PM
After an illustrious career in New York radio with Hot 97, where he was responsible for breaking artists like Rihanna and Rick Ross, Cipha Sounds turned years of touring as a DJ for major artists into a respected career in comedy. Since becoming the official DJ for Comedy Centralâs Chappelle’s Show, he has continued to work with Dave Chappelle, joining him on tours as both a DJ and opening comedian. He is a regular DJ at Saturday Night Live after parties, and appeared in Michael Cheâs Netflix Special, Michael Che Matters. Having shared the stage with everyone from Jay-Z to Dave Chappelle, Cipha Sounds is truly a one-of-a-kind link between comedy and Hip Hop in New York.
DJ Killa-Jewel – Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 7:00 PM
A 25-year veteran of the underground Hip-Hop scene and turntablist community, DJ Killa-Jewel has rocked the decks across Canada, the U.S., Europe, Asia and Australia at some of the most prestigious clubs, concerts and festivals to date. Well-known for her collaboration with Thud Rumbleâs DJ Q-Bert in his Do It Yourself Vol. 2 DVD, and trained in classical music, she spent years fusing Hip-Hop with the theatre milieu by composing âturntable musicâ live for theatrical productions, and touring extensively with Canadian actor and director Robert Lepage on his highly acclaimed productions Zulu Time (Co-produced by Peter Gabriel) and The Buskers Opera. She marries two different sonic worlds; one for the hardcore turntablist fans who enjoy a range of different scratch techniques, and the other for those whose ears are more attune to the time signature and electronically-synthesized sounds of modern-day trap music.
Plus, additional programming will be revealed soon!
COMEDYCON
In addition to this outdoor expansion, Just For Laughs TORONTO excitedly broadens the reach of their beloved daytime series, ComedyCON. With increasing popularity in comedy and entertainment gatherings, ComedyCON is promising to be one of Torontoâs most fan-centric events, with a plethora of diverse programming including In-Conversations, TV cast panels, podcasts, behind-the-scenes exclusives; and new this year which is sure to be a massive draw, autograph sessions with some of your favorite comedic artists of today!!! Donât miss out on your chance to meet and get your photo with one of your comedic idols. Pre-booking will start on Friday, August 26th – with an exciting lineup of artists available at our Autograph and Photo Op Alley.
ComedyCON continues to grow an established residence amongst industry and fans, offering different opportunities to get up close and personal with their favourite personalities; from stand-up comedians, to digital creators, and on-screen comedy stars.
Pulling back the curtain and offering fans exclusive access to some of todayâs most influential comedy stars, audiences will be able to listen in on never-before shared stories behind the making of some of todayâs hit TV shows with hilarious cast panels, live recordings of todayâs most popular podcasts, and so much more.
Appearing at 4 venues throughout Meridian Hall & the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, as part of ComedyCON this year is:
COMEDYCON HEADLINERS
The Bald and the Beautiful Podcast – Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 2:00 PM
Donât muss your wig with headphones! Come to Meridian Hall and listen as beloved comedic drag duo Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova bring their hit podcast âThe Bald and the Beautiful” LIVE to the Toronto ComedyCon stage!
The Bald and the Beautiful features a pair of grizzled gay ghouls exploring the cultural boundaries of modern beauty through interviews with gorgeous guests who inhabit various facets of the beauty industry. From models, moguls, influencers, drag queens, RuPaul’s Drag Race contestants to adult performers, actors, and more, Trixie and Katya break down the beauty behind it all.
In Conversation with Issa Rae – Saturday, September 24, 2022 | 1:00 PM
Issa Rae first received attention for her award-winning web series and the accompanying New York Times best-seller, “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl.” She created and starred in the Peabody-award-winning HBO series Insecure which garnered her multiple EmmyÂź and Golden GlobeÂź nominations. In 2020 Rae formed HOORAE, a multi-faceted media company that develops content across mediums in an effort to continue to break boundaries in storytelling and representation.
Come get the inside scoop on Issaâs life as a media mogul who reaches back, the highs and lows of ending her groundbreaking, career-making series, Insecure and her latest HOORAE projects that are keeping her busy, happy and feeling anything but awkward.
TV CAST PANELS!
ComedyCON is bringing together the cast and creators of some of your favorite TV comedy series as part of this yearâs festival.
HBOâs âLos Espookysâ Season 2 Sneak Peek and Cast and Creator Panel – Friday, September 23, 2022 | 4:00 PM
Join us for an advance screening of episode 2 and more sneak peeks from Season 2 of the highly anticipated, critically-acclaimed HBO comedy series, Los Espookys, hailed by Vanity Fair as âbilingual genius.â The series follows a group of friends who turn their shared passion for horror into a peculiar business, providing horror to clients who need it, in a dreamy Latin American country where the strange and eerie are just a part of daily life.
Following the screening, weâll hang out with the co-creators, writers, executive producers and stars of the show, Fred Armisen, Ana Fabrega and Julio Torres as they discuss the upcoming season, reveal behind-the-scenes stories and answer your questions about what âespookysâ them the most.
The series returns to HBO & HBO Max in the U.S. and CRAVE in Canada on September 16th.
RECORDING LIVE FROM TORONTO, YOUR FAVOURITE PODCASTS!
Elevate your podcast listening experience at this yearâs festival, by being in the (recording) room where it happens!
Seek Treatment with Cat and Pat Podcast – Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 4:30 PM
SEEK TREATMENT is a playful, fun, and flirty podcast where beloved and criminally under-famous comedians Catherine Cohen and Pat Regan talk about “boys, sex, dating, and love.” Each week, Cat and Pat invite a non-boring guest to dish the dirt on living, laughing, and yeahâŠloving. They’re just two shy slutty psychos who finally answer the question, “what if a gay guy and a girlâŠwere friends?” If you don’t listenâŠ.Seek Treatment!
Talk Clearlyer Podcast – Saturday, September 24, 2022 | 11:00 AM
Come listen to Cipha Sounds and Wil Sylvince on âTalk Clearlyerâ as they butcher the English language while discussing news, comedy, and everything in the Zeitgeist. Or just listen to hear them try to pronounce the word, âZeitgeist.â
Strictly Beloved Podcast – Saturday, September 24, 2022 | 4:00 PM
Dino Archie and Marito Lopez analyze the world around them through a beloved, hilarious, and honest lens.
Obsessed with Sophie Buddle Podcast – Saturday, September 24, 2022 | 1:30 PM
Award-winning comedian and writer Sophie Buddle interviews guests about their obsessions. From BeyoncĂ©, to American politics, to checking if the door is locked, to revenge, tune in every week to find out more about hilarious peopleâs obsessions.
TOPICAL COMEDY PANELS
Listen in on some of comedyâs most in depth conversations about the industry, mental health, racism, and more with these thought-provoking panels!
NAACP Presents: North Meets South – Saturday, September 24, 2022 | 12:00 PM
An all-star panel of Black American and Canadian comedians discuss the dichotomy of balancing comedy with the weight of tackling racial issues that transcend our border. Moderated by Amanda Seales, this panel will explore the contrast between comedic creativity and cultural expectations. How does the Black comedian achieve limitless appeal, while preserving an authentic and unapologetic voice?
Presented in collaboration with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
Reductress Presents: Our Satire, Ourselves – Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 11:00 AM
Join moderator, and Reductress Editor-In-Chief, Sarah Pappalardo and a group of hilarious comics (to be announced shortly) as they discuss creating comedy in these fraught times and dismantle the patriarchy one joke at a time.
Ali Hassan: Is There Bacon In Heaven? – Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 1:30 PM
Comedian, actor and broadcaster Ali Hassan will bring the laughs as he reads from his hilarious new memoir, âIs There Bacon In Heaven?â (Simon & Schuster Canada), full of laugh-out-loud funny stories about his journey to becoming a cultural Muslim. Book signing to follow.
Eat My Shorts: Encore Short Film Screening
Just For Laughs Eat My Shorts showcases the funniest short films from around the world. These short films were first selected for the 2022 Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal, and are getting an encore screening on the big screen in Toronto at ComedyCON! The films include Non-Negotiable, “Julia”, Get Happy, BURDER, Snooze, Coleslaw, My First Native American Boyfriend, Aspirational Slut, I’m Not A Robot, Quarantine Fling, FUBU and Sleepover Mom.
In addition, ComedyCON will play host to many great In Conversations events which include: In Conversation with Craig Ferguson, In Conversation with Neal Brennan, In Conversation with Craig Robinson, and In Conversation with Alok Vaid-Menon.
THE 42
Just For Laughs TORONTO continues to expand its robust standup lineup, with the addition of even more acts performing as part of The 42! Featuring artists you will recognize from their hit international specials and tours, to familiar faces from TV and movies, these comedic additions are not to be overlooked!
Added as part of the 42 this year, performing in venues around the city are:
*for specific venue locations, dates, times and pass info, visit toronto.hahaha.com
Jerrod Carmichael: Jerrod Carmichael is evolving the landscape of comedy with his groundbreaking work as a performer and creator in stand-up, television and film. Last year, Jerrod released Rothaniel, the deeply personal HBO special directed by Bo Burnham that is equal parts conversation, confession and comedy routine. Prior to, Jerrod was an executive producer on the hit Hulu series Ramy, and produced the FOX series REL. Jerrod starred in, wrote and produced the hit NBC series The Carmichael Show. On the big screen, Jerrod joined the cast in Michael Bayâs Transformers: The Last Knight, and appeared in James Francoâs 2017 film, The Disaster Artist. He made his directorial debut with the film On the Count of Three, which premiered at Sundance 2021 to extensive critical acclaim. He is also known for Sermon on the Mount and Home Videos, a two-part HBO special released in 2019 that carries intimate conversations with the women in his family after returning home to North Carolina for candid discussions on sex, confidence, beauty standards and feminism.
Los Espookys: The Stand-up Show, featuring Julio Torres, Ana Fabrega, and Fred Armisen: Creators of the critically-acclaimed HBO series Los Espookys, Ana Fabrega, Jolio Torres and Fred Armisen will be showcasing their comedic skills in âLos Espookys: the Stand-Up Showâ.
Fred Armisenâs career began as a musician in the Chicago-based post-punk band Trenchmouth as well as the Blue Man Group. His transition to comedy came with the 1998 underground short film Fred Armisenâs Guide to Music and South by SouthWest.n 11-season veteran of Saturday Night Live, Armisen has engaged audiences with memorable impressions and characters. In 2014, Armisen was named band leader of the 8G Band on Late Night with Seth Meyers. The band, curated by Armisen, includes members of indie rock bands Les Savy Fav and Girls against Boys. Armisen plays with the band when he is not in production on one of his other projects.
Ana Fabrega is an actor, writer, and comedian. She is the co-creator, co-writer, EP and star of the critically acclaimed HBO Spanish language comedy series Los Espookys alongside Julio Torres. She has appeared as one of Vultureâs â38 Comedians You Should and Will Knowâ. Her comedy has also been chosen for Just For Laughsâ 2017 New Faces: Characters and for Comedy Centralâs âComics to Watchâ for the 2016 New York Comedy Festival.
Julio Torres is an Emmy-nominated and WGA-winning writer and comedian from El Salvador. Torres is the star, co-creator, writer and executive producer of Los Espookys, which debuts its second season on September 16th. Torres recently released his picture book, âI Want to Be a Vaseâ. Illustrated by animator and designer Julian Glander and inspired by Torres’ first HBO standup special, My Favorite Shapes. Torres is currently in post-production on his feature film debut. Starring opposite Academy-Award winner Tilda Swinton, Isabella Rossellini, and RZA, Torres also wrote and directed the film. He received four Emmy nominations for his work on Saturday Night Live, on which he has served as a writer from 2016 to 2021. He currently resides in Brooklyn, NY.
Todd Barry: Todd Barry hasâŻreleased three one-hour stand-up specials including his latestâŻone for Netflix,âŻSpicy Honey. He’s appeared onâŻThe Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Late Show with David Letterman,âŻConanâŻandâŻLate Night With Seth Meyers and his actingâŻcredits includeâŻThe Wrestler, Road Trip, Flight of the Concords, Chappelle’s Show, Spin City, and Sex and the City.âŻYou may have heard his voice on the animated seriesâŻBobâs Burgers, Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist,âŻandâŻAqua Teen Hunger Force. Todd is also the author of the critically-acclaimed 2017 travel memoir âThank You For Coming To Hattiesburgâ.âŻ
Alex Edelman: Just For Us takes the audience through hilarious anecdotes from Alex Edelmanâs life â his Olympian brother AJ, an unconventional holiday season, and a gorilla that can do sign language â but at its center is an astonishing and frighteningly relevant story. After a string of anti-Semitic abuse is directed at Edelman online, he decides to covertly attend a gathering of White Nationalists in New York City and comes face to face with the people behind the keyboards. The result is a hair-raising encounter that gives Just For Us its title and final, jaw-dropping twist.
Nick Thune: Nick Thune is a comedian and actor, who hails from the Great Northwest, where he spent his early years growing up. Nickâs absurdist view and deadpan wit have distinguished his unique style of storytelling mixed with one-liners. Nick has appeared on The Tonight Show 10 times, Conan 2 times, and Late Night once. He performs comedy to sold out crowds across the country, and around the world.
The Alternative Show hosted by Mark Forward: Mark Forward has done stand-up on John Oliver’s New York Stand-Up Show (Comedy Central), The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson (CBS), Funny As Hell (HBO), and Just For Laughs: All Access (The Comedy Network). His TV work includes âCoach” on the Crave/Hulu Comedy series Letterkenny, Donny Mashman on Season 3 of Fargo on FX. Mark also has 2 one-hour Comedy Specials titled Mark Forward presents Mark Forward, or Mark Forward wins all the awards which can be seen on Crave.
Pat Regan: Pat Regan is a stand-up comedian in New York City, of all places. After three years as a house improviser at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York, he has spent the past few years focusing exclusively on stand-up. Pat has performed at venues across the city, including: Carolineâs on Broadway, Ars Nova, Littlefield, Union Hall, Knitting Factory, The Bell House, and The Duplex with his stand-up shows Unsuccessful by Choice (FKA Pat Regan: Unrepped and Loving It!) and Essgays. Pat has performed at Outside Lands, NY Comedy Festival, the Michigan LGBT ComedyFest, NYTVF, Podfest NYC, Vulture Festival, and Comedy Centralâs Clusterfest. Pat has been featured in publications such as NEW YORK TIMES, OUT, VULTURE, and most recently PAPER MAGAZINE. Pat has several projects in development and is currently in his second season writing for the Emmy Nominated and Critically Acclaimed HBO Max Original series, Hacks.
Got Land?: Got Land? expresses solidarity through humour. Got Land? Comedy is a stand-up comedy variety show, where First Nation, Inuk and Metis entertainers tell jokes and share life stories. Nation to nation comedians will showcase their material for allies, the indigenous community, and for Just For Laughs audiences. Featuring: Nicole Etitiq, Vance Banzo, Don Kelly, Janelle Niles, Dakota Ray Hebert, and Chad Anderson.
Late Night Surprise: Who doesn’t love a spot-on show title? Late Night Surprise is exactly that: a late-night show in an intimate venue with a surprise lineup that changes every night. What’s so special is that we pull out all. the. stops. for this one. Perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to see your favorite performer testing some new never-before-seen material, or maybe you’ll get to discover new talents. Two things are certain: it happens late, and the surprises are well worth it đ
JFL420 with Mike Rita: For over a decade comedian Mike Rita hosted a law breaking, underground comedy show that was world famous for one thing. It was one of the only open 420 friendly comedy shows in the world. Each week people from around the city, locals and tourists alike packed Stoner Sundays to enjoy themselves and the room. Now Just For Laughs welcomes The 420 Show with Mike Rita to our Toronto festival with 5 jam packed shows featuring some of the best comedians in the world, in a one-of-a-kind environment!
Brought to us by Lighthouse Immersive (Van Gogh, Klimt, Kahlo Immersive Experiences) with the support of Toronto Caribbean Carnival, the BOB MARLEY ONE LOVE EXPERIENCE is now taking place at 1 Yonge Street in Toronto starting today! The Toronto Caribeean Carnival kicks off July 28, and this is the perfect way to get us into that island spirit!
The BOB MARLEY ONE LOVE EXPERIENCE had a successful run in London prior to its Toronto debut, and it is actually created together with input from the Marley family. The multi-room exhibit that brings together original art, music, and immersive, and experiential rooms to bring us the true essence of Bob Marley and his Music.
The Exhibit is comprised of six spaces within the building, exploring different themes including the One Love Forest, the Soul Shakedown Studio, and more! There are never-seen-before photographs, awards and super-colourful installations celebrating Marley. There’s even a pair of his running shoes, with dirt on them, bringing us that much closer to him.
This a fun way to pay tribute to legacy of not only Marley but also his family, and also get some Instagram and TikTok-worthy content for your Socials!
In-town to ring-in the occasion was Cedella Marley, daughter of Bob Marley and Vocalist of Grammy-winning Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, mother of Skip Marley. She is the President of the Family’s Record Label TUFF GONG COLLECTIVE which last year partnered with Universal Music Group on a series of upcoming ventures.
Guests at last night’s special Media Preview also saw a special performance by King Cruff, Toronto-based Hip-Hop Artist who is the nephew of Cedella. The two were seen hugging, with Cedella supporting her nephew from a special enclosure.
More Snaps:
Instagram-able moments:
Â
Â
The BOB MARLEY ONE LOVE EXPERIENCE will open to the public on July 1, 2022 running through to August 14, 2022. More here.
Â
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)
Bell Media held their annual Upfront, previewing their upcoming 2022/2023 programming slate of returning and new programming across their family of networks, and also streaming service Crave. The event returned in-person at Meridian Hall, giving a glimpse for the for the first time many new acquisitions and confirmations. Here to ring-in the occasion were some recognizable names like Chad Michael Murray, Scott Patterson, Mena Massoud, Will Yun Lee, Meg Donnelly, Rebecca Romijn and several more!
CTV‘s Fall 2022 Programming Schedule has been firmed-up, all times are listed in Eastern Time:
MONDAYS
7 p.m. ETALK
7:30 p.m. THE BIG BANG THEORY (S)
8 p.m. CHILDREN RUIN EVERYTHING
8:30 p.m. BOB HEARTS ABISHOLA (S)
9 p.m. THE CLEANING LADY (S)
10 p.m. THE GOOD DOCTOR (S)
TUESDAYS
7 p.m. ETALK
7:30 p.m. THE BIG BANG THEORY (S)
8 p.m. THE RESIDENT (S)
9 p.m. LA BREA (S)
10 p.m. THE ROOKIE: FEDS (S)
WEDNESDAYS
7 p.m. ETALK
7:30 p.m. THE CONNERS
8 p.m. THE MASKED SINGER (S)
9 p.m. THE AMAZING RACE (S)
10 p.m. BIG SKY (S)
THURSDAYS
7 p.m. CALL ME KAT
7:30 p.m. YOUNG SHELDON
8 p.m. STATION 19 (S)
9 p.m. GREYâS ANATOMY (S)
10 p.m. ALASKA (S)
FRIDAYS
7 p.m. ETALK
7:30 p.m. THE BIG BANG THEORY (S)
8 p.m. SHARK TANK (S)
9 p.m. TRANSPLANT
10 p.m. BLUE BLOODS (S)
SATURDAYS
7 p.m. W5
8 p.m. CTV Movie
SUNDAYS
7 p.m. NFL (contâd)
8 p.m. CELEBRITY JEOPARDY! (S)
9 p.m. EAST NEW YORK (S)
10 p.m. THE ROOKIE (S)
Daytime and Late-Night
CTVâs premium daytime and late-night lineups return, including CTV YOUR MORNING, LIVE WITH KELLY AND RYAN, THE MARILYN DENIS SHOW, THE SOCIAL, DR. PHIL, THE VIEW, and ETALK.
Also returning to CTV are THE DAILY SHOW WITH TREVOR NOAH and the final season of THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH JAMES CORDEN, with THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JIMMY FALLON and LATE NIGHT WITH SETH MEYERS on CTV2.
Awards and Live Events
CTV is home to appointment viewing live events, including the 95th OSCARSÂź, the 74th EMMYÂź AWARDS, the AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS, and the CMA AWARDS on CTV2.
As Bell Media is the exclusive television broadcast partner of the NFL in Canada, CTV delivers extensive coverage of the NFL regular season, the NFL playoffs, and the biggest broadcast event of the year, SUPER BOWL LVII.
CTV News
Connecting with audiences from coast-to-coast-to-coast, the countryâs most-watched national newscast, CTV NATIONAL NEWS WITH LISA LAFLAMME, airs weeknights at 11 p.m. ET.
Across the country, viewers turn to CTVâs local newscasts to stay informed on breaking news in their communities, including CTVâs award-winning CTV NEWS AT SIX, âas well as CTV MORNING LIVE, CTV NEWS AT NOON, CTV NEWS AT FIVE, and CTV NEWS AT 11:30 p.m.
The award-winning W5 returns for a 57th season Saturdays at 7 p.m. ET on CTV, and landmark political program QUESTION PERIOD, hosted by CTV News’ Evan Solomon, returns Sunday mornings at 11 a.m. ET.
__________________________________
Bell Media have made several exciting new acquisitions, bringing their viewers some exciting new things to look forward to, including the latest from Oscar-winning talents Tom McCarthy and Hilary Swank, ALASKA. Hit ’80s Sitcom NIGHT COURT gets a Reboot and CTV will be home to it, as well, while CTV Sci-Fi will carry Supernatural Origins Series THE WINCHESTERS. There’s also tons for buzz for upcoming Drama Series EAST NEW YORK with breakout star Amanda Warren.
CTV
ALASKA
From the mind of Academy AwardÂź-winner Tom McCarthy (Spotlight), ALASKA stars Hilary Swank (AWAY) as Eileen Fitzgerald, a recently disgraced reporter who leaves her high-profile New York life behind to join a daily metro newspaper in Anchorage, on a journey to find both personal and professional redemption. Alongside Swank, ALASKA stars Jeff Perry (SCANDAL), Matt Malloy (In the Company of Men), Meredith Holzman (Blow the Man Down), Grace Dove (The Revenant), Pablo Castelblanco (Admission), Ami Park (THIS IS US), and Craig Frank (8.13). Tom McCarthy is creator and executive producer. Hilary Swank, Melissa Wells, Bert Salke, Kyle Hopkins (Anchorage Daily News), and Ryan Binkley (Anchorage Daily News) are executive producers, with Peter Elkoff (THE RESIDENT) serving as showrunner and executive producer. ALASKA is produced by 20th Television, a part of Disney Television Studios.
ALERT
When police officer Nikki Parkerâs son goes missing, she joins the Los Angeles Police Departmentâs (LAPD) Missing Persons Unit to help other people find their loved ones, even as she searches for her own. Six years later, her world is turned upside-down when her ex-husband, Devon Zoellner, shows up with a proof-of-life photo of their missing boyâŠor is it? The series is a procedural drama with a search for a missing person in each episode that runs alongside the overarching storyline of Nikki and Devonâs quest to find out the truths about the person claiming to be their long-lost son. ALERT is produced by Sony Pictures Television and FOX Entertainment. John Eisendrath will write and executive produce. Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner will also executive produce.
CELEBRITY JEOPARDY!
In the all-new game show CELEBRITY JEOPARDY!, celebrity contestants compete for a chance to win money and donate it to a charity of their choice. From Sony Pictures Television, CELEBRITY JEOPARDY! is executive produced by Michael Davies.
EAST NEW YORK
From the executive producers of NYPD BLUE, EAST NEW YORK stars Amanda Warren (DICKINSON) as Deputy Inspector Regina Haywood, the newly promoted boss of the 74th Precinct, in East New York â a working-class neighborhood on the edge of Brooklyn in the midst of social upheaval and the early seeds of gentrification. With family ties to the area, Haywood is determined to deploy creative methods to protect her beloved community with the help of her officers and detectives, but first, she has the daunting task of getting them on board, as some are skeptical of her promotion, and others resist the changes she is desperate to make. Her team includes her mentor, shrewd veteran two-star Chief John Suarez (EmmyÂź Award winner Jimmy Smits, L.A. LAW); Marvin Sandeford (Tony AwardÂź winner and current nominee Ruben Santiago-Hudson, CASTLE), a highly respected training officer and expert on the neighborhood; Tommy Killian (Kevin Rankin, Dallas Buyers Club), a detective with some old-school approaches to policing; Capt. Stan Yenko (Richard Kind, Inside Out), Haywoodâs gregarious and efficient right hand; Crystal Morales (Elizabeth Rodriguez, Logan), an intuitive detective who canât be intimidated; Andre Bentley (Lavel Schley, GROWN-ISH), a trainee from an upper middle-class background; and ambitious patrol officer Brandy Quinlan (Olivia Luccardi, It Follows). EmmyÂź Award-winner William Finkelstein, Mike Flynn, EmmyÂź Award-winner Michael M. Robin, Christine Holder, and Mark Holder are executive producers. Andrew Maher is a co-executive producer. The series is produced by Warner Bros. Television.
NIGHT COURT
Unapologetic optimist judge Abby Stone (Melissa Rauch, THE BIG BANG THEORY), the daughter of the late Harry Stone, follows in her fatherâs footsteps as she presides over the night shift of a Manhattan arraignment court and tries to bring order to its crew of oddballs and cynics, most notably former night court prosecutor Dan Fielding (John Larroquette). The cast also includes India de Beaufort (Run Fatboy Run), Kapil Talwalkar (ZOEYâS EXTRAORDINARY PLAYLIST), and Lacretta (Second Act). Writer Dan Rubin executive produces with Melissa Rauch and Winston Rauch. John Larroquette will produce. NIGHT COURT is produced by Warner Bros. Television, in association with After January Productions and Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group.
THE ROOKIE: FEDS
From the executive producers of THE ROOKIE comes THE ROOKIE: FEDS, starring Niecy Nash-Betts (CLAWS) as Simone Clark, the oldest rookie in the FBI Academy. The spinoff was introduced as a two-part event during the fourth season of THE ROOKIE, where Officer John Nolan (Nathan Fillion, CASTLE) and the L.A. division of the FBI enlist the help of Simone Clark when one of her former students is a suspect in a terror attack. The series also stars Frankie Faison (White Chicks) as Christopher âCuttyâ Clark, and Felix Solis (The International) as Special Agent Matthew Garza. Alexi Hawley and Terence Paul Winter are co-creators and executive producers. Mark Gordon, Niecy Nash-Betts, Nathan Fillion, Michelle Chapman, Bill Norcross, and Corey Miller are executive producers. Entertainment One (eOne) is the lead studio and international distributor of THE ROOKIE: FEDS, a co-production with ABC Signature.
TRUE LIES
Inspired by James Cameronâs hit action/comedy film of the same name, TRUE LIES follows Harry (Steve Howey, Bride Wars), a first-class international spy for U.S. intelligence agency Omega Sector, and his wife, Helen (Ginger Gonzaga, TOGETHERNESS), a language professor bored with her daily routine, who makes the shocking discovery that her seemingly ordinary husband is leading an extraordinary double life. With the secret out, Omega recruits Helen, who impresses everyone with her formidable skills, and she joins Harry and his team of top-notch operatives, embarking on covert missions around the globe and an exhilarating life of danger and adventure. The renewed bond between them adds much-needed sizzle to the Taskersâ emotionally distant marriage and upends the top-secret world of Omega Sector. As Harry says, if youâre going to save the world, you might as well do it for the ones you love. TRUE LIES also stars Erica Hernandez (BRIDGE AND TUNNEL) as Maria, Omar Miller (BALLERS) as Gib, Mike OâGorman (TINY APARTMENT) as Luther, Annabella Didion (OUTER BANKS) as Dana, and Lucas Jaye (The Sleepover) as Jake. Matt Nix, James Cameron, Rae Sanchini, McG, Mary Viola, Corey Marsh, and Josh Levy are executive producers. Anthony Hemingway is an executive producer and directed the pilot from a script by Nix. Sean Hoagland and Whitney Davis are co-executive producers. The series is produced by 20th Television.
CTV Specialty Channels
CTV Sci-Fi Channel:
THE ARK
THE ARK takes place 100 years in the future when planetary colonization missions have begun as a necessity to help secure the survival of the human race. The first of these missions on a spacecraft, known as Ark One, encounters a catastrophic event causing massive destruction and loss of life. With more than a year left to go before reaching their target planet, a lack of life-sustaining supplies and loss of leadership, the remaining crew must become the best versions of themselves to stay on course and survive. The series stars Christie Burke (MAID), Richard Fleeshman (CALL THE MIDWIFE), Reece Ritchie (The Lovely Bones), Stacey Read (Aneni), and Ryan Adams (Orange Peel). Dean Devlin and Jonathan Glassner are co-showrunners and executive producers alongside Marc Roskin and Rachel Olschan-Wilson of Electric Entertainment. Jonathan English of Balkanic Media and Steve Lee serve as producers.
THE WINCHESTERS
Before Sam and Dean, there were their parents, John and Mary. Told from the perspective of narrator Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles, SUPERNATURAL), THE WINCHESTERS is the epic, untold love story of how John Winchester (Drake Rodger, The In Between) met Mary Campbell (Meg Donnelly, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE) and put it all on the line to not only save their love, but the entire world. When John returns home from fighting in Vietnam, a mysterious encounter sparks a new mission to trace his fatherâs past. In his journey, he crosses paths with 19-year-old demon hunter Mary, who is also searching for answers after the disappearance of her own father. Together, the two join forces with young hunter-in-training Latika (Nida Khurshid, STATION 19), and easygoing hunter Carlos (Jonathan âJojoâ Fleites) to uncover the hidden truths about both their families. Their investigation leads them to a rare book emporium, whose owner, Ada (Demetria McKinney, HOUSE OF PAYNE), takes an interest to the occult and could provide the missing pieces to their puzzle. But secrets run deep for both the Winchesters and Campbells, and despite the best efforts of Johnâs mother Millie (Bianca Kajlich, Bring It On) to protect her son from pursuing a dangerous life of demon hunting, John and Mary are both determined to work together to uphold their familiesâ legacies while beginning to form a family of their own. A prequel to the long-running hit series SUPERNATURAL, THE WINCHESTERS is written and executive produced by Robbie Thompson. Jensen Ackles and Danneel Ackles executive produce via their Chaos Machine Productions. David H. Goodman joined the creative team as an executive producer for the series. McG serves as an executive producer. The series is from Chaos Machine Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Studios.
STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS, filmed here in Toronto, just premiered in May on CTV Sci-Fi and Star Rebecca Romijn popped-by to say “hello”! Always flawless.
CTV Drama Channel:
PANHANDLE
A serialized dramedy set in the Florida Panhandle. Since personal tragedy struck five years ago, loquacious, eccentric Bell Prescott (EmmyÂź Award-winner Luke Kirby, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) hasnât left the decaying property he shares with his mother and a pet alligator. When Bell discovers a dead body, he browbeats the only cop in town, the practical, brutally direct Cammie Lorde (Tiana Okoye, The Good Place), into solving the case. That leads the unlikely duo into a collision course with Bellâs past. Theyâll wrestle with personal demons, shocking twists, and Panhandle craziness on their journey to heal themselves and their town. Carla Kettner (THE BLACKLIST), Nicholas Stoller (MUPPETS MOST WANTED), and Conor Welch (GOOSEBUMPS) are Executive Producers. The series is produced by Sony Pictures Television.
CTV Life Channel:
JAMIEâS ONE PAN WONDERS
JAMIEâS ONE PAN WONDERS is the ultimate solutions-based guide to brilliantly easy meals perfect for now, offering a delicious range of dishes all cooked in just one pan or tray. Each recipe uses only a handful of ingredients, as the pan does all the hard work â and thereâs hardly any cleaning up.
Each meal has been created by Jamie Oliver specifically to answer peopleâs everyday needs: from speedy meals that can be made in 15 minutes or less, ovenbaked dishes that can be left to cook low and slow while people do with other things, brilliant principle recipes that big-up batch cooking, or clever shortcuts to family favourites that everyone will love to eat, but donât always have the time to cook.
JAMIEâS ONE PAN WONDERS is the solution for anyone who wants to cook delicious food with minimal ingredients, less cleaning up, and big flavour.
__________________________________
Bell Media continues to show its commitment to delivering and supporting Canadian voices with the following new English-Language programs, including the eagerly-awaited SULLIVAN’S CROSSING starring One Tree Hill‘s Chad Michael Murray, which begins production this week shortly on the East Coast. You know we love RuPaul’s Drag Race, and a CANADA’S DRAG RACE: CANADA VS. THE WORLD branch of the Series is on the way pitting Canadian Queens against some international-level competition!
New English-Language Series:
ACTING GOOD â CTV Comedy *previously announced
ACTING GOOD stars Rabliauskas as Paul, a witty but sensitive comic who returns home to the fictional Grouse Lake First Nation after a botched attempt to move to the big city. Inspired by Rabliauskasâ own isolated community of Poplar River First Nation, the half-hour comedy also stars actor, comedian, and series co-showrunner Pat Thornton, as Brady, the âonly white guy on the rez.â The homegrown lineup of cast and crew also features Billy Merasty (Elijah) as voice of the rez and radio DJ, Roger Laughingstick, Roseanne Supernault (THE DRIVE) as reformed bad girl and band councillor, Jo. Gabriel Daniels (The Ice Road) joins the cast as big-hearted Dean, along with series producer Tina Keeper (NORTH OF 60) as the family matriarch Agnes. And in their debut acting roles, Avery Claudia Sutherland stars as Joâs rebellious daughter Chickadee, comedian Cheyenna Sapp as Paulâs, on-again-off-again girlfriend, Rose, and writer, poet, and radio host Rosanna Deerchild as First Nation Grouse Lake chief, Deedee. (Buffalo Gal)
A CUT ABOVE â Discovery *previously announced
Hosted by Golden GlobeÂź-nominee Adam Beach, this competition series puts 12 of the best chainsaw carvers from across the world to the ultimate test of creativity, strength, and skills, as they turn ordinary logs into extraordinary works of art. Each episode, the carvers compete in weekly Quick and Master Carve challenges, while racing against the clock, in hopes of avoiding elimination. At the end of the grueling competition, the carver who out carves the rest, wins a cash prize and will be named âA Cut Aboveâ. World-renowned Canadian chainsaw carver Ryan Cook and esteemed United Kingdom sculptor, Katharine Dowson serve as judges. (marblemedia)
BATTLE OF THE GENERATIONS â CTV
BATTLE OF THE GENERATIONS is an exciting new 20-episode, 60-minute CTV Original quiz format that asks not only how well you know someone elseâs generation â but how well you know your own. Each episode of this nostalgia-packed quiz show features four charismatic contestants, each representing a different generation (Baby Boomer, Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z), who battle it out to discover who knows the most about ALL generations. Whoever triumphs in this unique game of time travelling trivia will enter The Vault for a chance to win big money. Fast and fun, tactical and tenacious, BATTLE OF THE GENERATIONS is the primetime game show thatâs genuinely for everyone. (Bell Media Studios/Motion Content Group)
BRIA MACK GETS A LIFE â Crave
A half-hour comedy series that follows Bria Mack, a 25-year-old Black woman, as she navigates adulthood in a predominantly white world â which is made all the more difficult, but also more tolerable â by Black Attack, her invisible hype girl. Created by Sasha Leigh Henry, the series is executive produced by Henry, Tania Thompson, and Mark Montefiore, with Angelique Knights and Tamar Bird serving as producers. (New Metric Media)
BUSH WRECK RESCUE â Discovery
BUSH WRECK RESCUE is a new take on the ever-popular car and truck restoration genre, with a twist â all the projects begin as long-abandoned wrecks tracked down in farmersâ fields, barns, and ravines in the backcountry. BUSH WRECK RESCUEâs âgearheadsâ attempt to turn a profit by pulling vintage vans, muscle cars, and pick-up trucks out of the bush and transforming them into Instagram-worthy gems. (Omnifilm Entertainment)
CANADAâS DRAG RACE: CANADA VS THE WORLD â Crave
After two wildly successful seasons of CANADAâS DRAG RACE, and a third on the horizon, the queens of the north have proven they can âsleighâ in every way. With Canada acting as host nation, CANADAâS DRAG RACE: CANADA VS THE WORLD is a six-episode battle that brings back fan-favourites from the international Drag Race family for an elite competition to crown the âQueen of the Mother-Pucking World.â At this level of competition, there are no weak links â just seasoned queens with a thirst for victory. Let the international games begin! (Blue Ant Studios, Saloon Media, World of Wonder)
CROSS COUNTRY CAKE OFF â CTV
CROSS COUNTRY CAKE OFF is an original competition series that celebrates the unbridled creativity of Canada’s best cake-makers, and showcases the incredible stories of heart and humour that inspire them. A feel good national event, CROSS COUNTRY CAKE OFF connects the country through cake in 10 delightful episodes, including four Holiday specials. Buckle up for a wild and delicious ride! (Proper Television)
DINE YOUR SIGN â CTV Life *previously announced
Hosted by Chef Siobhan Detkavich, DINE YOUR SIGN connects appetite with the astrological, with each episode featuring a menu designed around one of the 12 Zodiac signs. (Gusto TV)
EVOLVING VEGAN â CTV Life Channel and Crave
EVOLVING VEGAN is an eight-part food, travel, and adventure series, starring, and based on Canadian actor Mena Massoudâs (Aladdin) cookbook, of the same name. Each one-hour episode features Massoud as he explores the exploding plant-based food scene across North America, visiting cities such as Los Angeles, Portland, Toronto, Vancouver and New York City to meet the trailblazing chefs and restaurateurs serving up the best vegan eats each city has to offer. He will also meet with exciting innovators within the plant-based food space and link up with celebrity friends and locals as they eat their way through each localesâ best vegan offerings. Massoudâs mission is to show people how incredibly delicious and accessible plant-based options are and encourage people to evolve vegan, to move in that direction, even if itâs for one night of the week in a judgement-free manner. EVOLVING VEGAN is set to premiere on CTV Life and Crave in 2023. (Bell Media Studios)
FARMING FOR LOVE â CTV *previously announced
An adaptation of the hit international format THE FARMER WANTS A WIFE, FARMING FOR LOVE follows the journeys of rural Canadian singles on their quest for romance. In FARMING FOR LOVE, five Canadians searching for their soulmates open up their farms â and their hearts â to a select group of urban singles. As they live and work together, the daters must adjust to a new lifestyle, and immerse themselves in a series of challenges, group activities, and intimate one-on-one dates, with the goal of finding their one true love. The CTV Original series consists of 10, one-hour episodes. (Lark Productions in collaboration with Fremantle and in association with CTV)
I HAVE NOTHING â Crave
I HAVE NOTHING is a factual comedy about amateur abilities and enormous ambitions and follows series creator and star Carolyn Taylor (BARONESS VON SKETCH SHOW) on her eternal quest to escape the familiar and pursue her wildest dreams, even when she doesn’t have the talent, or skills (or basic knowledge) to realize them. The series follows Carolyn on a quixotic quest to choreograph the perfect full-length pairs figure skating routine to Whitney Houston’s 1992 hit song ‘I Have Nothing.’ What begins as a light-hearted, nostalgic comedy quickly morphs into a high-stakes, real-life mission â with a few wild detours along the way. (Content Catalyst Fund in association with Blue Ant Studios)
JUST FOR LAUGHS Specials â CTV Comedy
Slated to be filmed at the 2022 Just for Laughs Festival in Montréal in July, four new stand-up comedy specials to feature the best in homegrown and international comedy talent. Hosted by Russell Peters, Chelsea Handler, Jo Koy, and Patton Oswalt. (Just For Laughs)
LATE BLOOMER â Crave
LATE BLOOMER is a new comedy series created by and starring comedic sensation Jasmeet Raina, aka JusReign. The series is inspired by his real-life experiences navigating new-found internet fame, dating, spirituality, culture, and his dysfunctional (yet loving) family. (Pier 21 Films)
LISTING LARGE â CTV Life
Odeen Eccleston and Lamont Wiltshire are building a real estate empire: buying, selling, renovating and flipping, all while juggling parenthood, friendship and love. Amidst luxury custom builds and multi-million dollar deals, this on-again off-again couple are determined not to let anything stand in the way of their wildly successful business partnership. (Proper Television)
LITTLE BIRD â Crave *previously announced
Created by showrunner Jennifer Podemski and head writer Hannah Moscovitch, LITTLE BIRD follows an Indigenous woman on a journey to find her birth family, and uncover the hidden truth of her past. The series, a co-production with APTN, explores themes of resilience in the face of trauma and loss. Removed from her home in Long Pine Reserve in Saskatchewan, Bezhig Little Bird is adopted into a MontrĂ©al Jewish family at the age of five, becoming Esther Rosenblum. Now in her 20s, Bezhig longs for the family she lost and is willing to sacrifice everything to find them. Her quest lands her in the Canadian prairies, worlds apart from everything she knows. As she begins to track down her siblings, she unravels the mystery behind her adoption, and discovers that her apprehension was connected to a racist government policy now known as the Sixties Scoop. Bezhig’s sense of identity shatters and she is forced to reckon with who she is and who she wants to become. The character-driven drama features an extraordinary cast of Indigenous actors, including Darla Contois, Ellyn Jade, Osawa Muskwa, Joshua Odjick, Imajyn Cardinal, Braeden Clarke, Eric Schweig, and Michelle Thrush. Lisa Edelstein also stars. Award-winning filmmakers Elle-MĂĄijĂĄ Tailfeathers and Zoe Hopkins each direct three episodes, while Hopkins writes three of the episodes. Executive producers are Christina Fon, Ernest Webb, Catherine Bainbridge, Linda Ludwick (Rezolution Pictures), Kim Todd, Nicholas Hirst (Original Pictures), Jeremy Podeswa, Jennifer Podemski, and Hannah Moskovitch, along with Christian Vesper and Dante Di Loreto (Fremantle). Producers are Tanya Brunel and Jessica Dunn (OP Little Bird), Claire MacKinnon and Philippe Chabot (Rezolution Pictures) and Lori Lozinski and Ellen Rutter. The series is currently in production in Manitoba and is set to premiere on Crave next year. (Rezolution Pictures, APTN, OP Little Bird)
THE MIGHTIEST â Discovery
THE MIGHTIEST is a six-part series that zeros in on the most exciting and compelling stories from the MIGHTY franchise (MIGHTY TRAINS, MIGHTY SHIPS, MIGHTY PLANES, MIGHTY CRUISE SHIPS), one of Discoveryâs most successful series seen in more than 100 countries around the world. Each themed episode of THE MIGHTIEST goes a step further by embedding on new missions to highlight mind-blowing feats of science and engineering that are set to change the game once again, including an exclusive visit to the U.S.S. Gerald R. Ford – the US Navyâs newest and largest aircraft carrier. Principal photography on THE MIGHTIEST is underway, and the series premieres on Discovery later this year. (Bell Media Studios)
ONE DAY WEâLL ALL BE DEAD â Crave
Based on the critically acclaimed, national bestselling book by Scaachi Koul, One Day Weâll All Be Dead And None Of This Will Matter, this new half-hour comedy, created by Lakna Edilima and Koul, follows a first-generation Brown woman juggling her invasive family, her burgeoning journalism career, and her own strong-willed nature while processing her own grief. (First Generation Films)
PARANORMAL REVENGE â CTV Sci-Fi
PARANORMAL REVENGE is a brand new, original series from the newly amalgamated, Sphere Media. Each hour explores two chilling stories of real-life paranormal encounters that intersect with one of the most powerful forces of darkness â revenge. Those who experience para-revenge often describe a strong feeling of possession. And in every encounter⊠violence and terror follow. Each story is unpacked by the witnesses who experienced these revenge hauntings. And whether itâs a person, place or object from the past seeking its victim, the history drives the horror. These are mystery filled camp-fire tales with twists and turns, driving toward a terrifying final revelation. (Sphere Media)
SHELVED â CTV
Set in the Jameson Public Library in Toronto’s Parkdale neighbourhood, SHELVED is a single-camera, workplace comedy that follows the employees and patrons as they go about their lives in this unassuming and extraordinary place. (Counterfeit)
SIGHT UNSEEN â CTV
After losing her vision, former homicide detective Tess Burke is haunted by the unsolved cases she left behind. When she meets professional seeing-eye guide Sunny Patel through a visual assistance app, they decide to take action. Using a hidden camera and earpiece, Sunny steers Tess remotely around lifeâs obstacles â and crimes â as the two challenge preconceptions about ability, trust, and solving crime. (Sisters Troubetzoy Productions Inc. and Bl!nk49 Studios. Worldwide rights controlled by Bl!nk49)
SISTERS â Crave
An Irish-Canadian co-production, SISTERS is a character-driven, half-hour, dark comedy about family, culture, and life in oneâs 30s. Itâs an exploration of how the absence of parents can influence adult life in unforeseen ways, and how that void can affect a womanâs relationship to alcohol, men, work, and motherhood (or lack thereof) â and the macabre humour that can come with trauma. In SISTERS, the two main characters born continents apart, in Canada and in Ireland, discover they are half-sisters and embark on a road trip to find their alcoholic father. Real life best friends, EMMYÂź Award-nominee Sarah Goldberg (BARRY) and Susan Stanley (Hotel Amenities), make their writing debuts and star. Emmy Award-nominee Declan Lowney (TED LASSO) is the establishing director and is set to direct the first three episodes of the six-episode series. (Peer Pressure and Shaftesbury, in association with Mermade and Gaze Pictures)
THE SPENCER SISTERS â CTV
Darby Spencer is having a bad day. After being unjustly reprimanded by her boss, Darby impulsively quits her job as a police officer, and then finds out her boyfriend is cheating on her. With no other choice, she returns home to the one person sheâs been avoiding for years: her overbearing, best-selling-mystery-novelist mother, Joan. But after the two are thrust into solving a crime together, Darby discovers a side to Joan she never knew, and ultimately takes the plunge on the unlikeliest of ventures: becoming her partner in a private detective agency. (eOne)
SPICE SECRETS â CTV Life *previously announced
From seeds, roots, to bark, and fruits, SPICE SECRETS explores the unique and complex flavours that fill our spice racks. Hosted by Chefs Shahir Massoud and Jasmin Rose Ibrahim, the 10-episode series will feature a variety of spice applications, techniques and unexpected combinations. (Gusto TV)
SULLIVANâS CROSSING â CTV *previously announced
In SULLIVANâS CROSSING, Neurosurgeon Maggie Sullivan (Kohan) has her world turned upside down when a scandalous incident throws both her personal and professional life into turmoil. She leaves her life in the city and returns to Sullivanâs Crossing, a rural campground and outpost nestled amongst the sweeping vistas and cliffs she once called home, where her estranged father, Sully Sullivan (Patterson), still looks after the day-to-day operations catering to hikers, bikers, and mountain climbers. The 10-episode, hour-long romantic drama sees Maggie navigating her complicated present and confronting her painful past as she attempts to reconnect with a side of herself she had long ago forgotten. Tackling issues including family, community, conflict, loss, and love in a realistic and purposeful way, SULLIVANâS CROSSING is a series about healing, letting go, and ultimately, opening yourself up to a world of new opportunities. (Reel World Management in association with CTV and Fremantle, SULLIVANâS CROSSING is being produced as an interprovincial coproduction with Nova Scotia based producer Mike Volpe and Ontario based producer Mark Gingras)
THUNDER BAY â Crave *previously announced
THUNDER BAY is a four-part Crave Original documentary series based on the groundbreaking podcast from CANADALAND, Thunder Bay. The gripping investigative series is produced and also hosted by Anishinaabe journalist and award-winning writer, Ryan McMahon, who is on a quest to uncover the truth in the recent deaths of multiple Indigenous people in Thunder Bay, Ontario â a city known as the homicide and hate crime capital of Canada. McMahonâs investigation sheds light on the history of racism in Thunder Bay, and examines the failings and the injustices of its social systems and institutions. The series unravels the countryâs complicated relationship with colonialism, examining the consequences of the broken system in which some can thrive, while many others, disproportionally struggle to survive. Produced, written, and hosted by Ryan McMahon. The series is currently in production. (eOne)
URBAN LEGEND â CTV Sci-Fi
URBAN LEGEND is a nightmarish anthology series showcasing classic urban legends like never before. Based on widely shared âtrueâ stories that happened to a friend of a friendâŠof a friend, each episode is a mini-horror film cinematically crafted to deliver a hyper-suspenseful and tension-fuelled experience. Featuring lurking psychopaths, murderous mysteries, creepy creatures and twisting tales, these disturbing legends prey on our most deeply embedded fears to shock and terrify. (Cream Productions)
VEG HEADZ â CTV Life *previously announced
Hosted by two-time MASTERCHEF CANADA winner Chef Pino Di Cerbo, VEG HEADZ reimagines what you can do with fresh produce, creating four tasty plant-based plates per episode. (Gusto TV)
New English-Language Documentaries and Specials:
AFTER THE STORM â Discovery
Two-part documentary about the storm of the century, exploring the mechanics of the disaster, the impact on those affected, and the mammoth efforts to rebuild stronger and safer. (Great Pacific Media)
ANY OTHER WAY: THE JACKIE SHANE STORY â Crave Original Documentary
This new documentary tells the tale of the extraordinary life and mysterious disappearance of pioneering soul singer and Black Transgender trailblazer, Jackie Shane. Her story is brought vibrantly to life through intimate recorded conversations with Jackie, and follows her familyâs journey to discover her legacy, and the voices of those who were inspired by her tenacity to be herself. Executive produced by Elliot Page of Page Boy Productions. (Banger Films, National Film Board of Canada)
AUDIOPHILIA – ADVENTURES IN THE WORLD OF HI-FI â Crave Original Documentary
From director Ron Mann, AUDIOPHILIA – ADVENTURES IN THE WORLD OF HI-FI is the story about the love of listening to music on the worldâs best stereo equipment. The film profiles the inventors, designers, and major-league audiophiles, engaged in the never-ending quest to find audio nirvana. The film is a deep dive into the subculture of sonic obsessives around the world who seek out esoteric electronics that are often visually stunning, and turn their homes into audio sanctuaries. (Sphinx Productions)
BAM BAM: THE STORY OF SISTER NANCY â Crave Original Documentary *previously announced
BAM BAM: THE STORY OF SISTER NANCY is a feature music documentary that explores the wild story behind how Sister Nancy’s hit song âBam Bamâ became the most sampled reggae vocal of all time. From Nancy’s unprecedented entry into the male-dominated 80s Dancehall scene in Kingston, Jamaica, to her courageous fight to control her music, Sister Nancyâs story is not only one of resilience, but also one of celebration. Ultimately, this is an inspirational music documentary about a woman dusting herself off after being held back by an industry known for silencing female artists, and hell-bent on empowering others with her music, and knowledge to make a difference. Proving to all that good music, no matter what canât be stopped! Directed by Alison Duke. Produced by OYA Media Group with Ngardy Conteh George and Duke serving as producers. (OYA Media Group)
BUFFY SAINT MARIE: POWER IN THE BLOOD â CTV *previously announced
For more than 50 years, Buffy Sainte-Marie has been a star. Her songs are legendary, her impact undeniable. One of Canadaâs most-respected Indigenous leaders, sheâs a pioneer of music and activism, and has left an indelible mark on the world. The film tells Buffyâs incredible story through exclusive access, rare archives, insightful interviews, and great music. The 90-min documentary BUFFY SAINT-MARIE: POWER IN THE BLOOD celebrates Buffyâs extraordinary achievements, dispels myths, sets the record straight, and illustrates that in a time of chaos and division, weâve never needed Buffy more than now. (White Pine Pictures, Eagle Vision)
KINGS OF COKE â Crave Original Documentary *previously announced
People often think about Miami when it comes to cocaine, but MontrĂ©al may have been the biggest drug kingdom of them all. By the 70s, MontrĂ©al, the infamous party town, was engulfed in mayhem. The city had become known as the bank robbery capital of North America with more heists than New York or Los Angeles. Then, a brazen group of thieves moved into the drug trade, smuggling cocaine on a global scale. This 90-minute, true crime documentary chronicles the path to power of one of MontrĂ©alâs most influential and violent gangs, the infamous West End Gang, and the cops and journalists who pursued its three leaders. Itâs an unlikely rise and inevitable fall, but more importantly, itâs a largely forgotten and underreported story, even for the most seasoned of true crime fans. KINGS OF COKE is produced by Michael Kronish and directed by Julian Sher, and is set to premiere on Crave later this year. (Connect 3, Urbania Media)
COMING HOME â Crave Original Documentary
COMING HOME is a feature-length documentary by director Erica Daniels taking viewers behind the scenes of the production of the much anticipated Crave Original drama series LITTLE BIRD, and the groundbreaking movement for Indigenous narrative sovereignty as experienced by the seriesâ creatives, crew and 60âs Scoop advisors. Intimate behind the scenes footage, interviews, and period archive interweave to trace and reveal the ongoing legacy of the 60s scoop and the power of narrative reclamation. (Rezolution Pictures, Logical Mayhem, APTN)
NAKED â Crave Original Documentary *previously announced
A documentary feature film about the gender binary. What is it? How does it manifest itself in our minds and our lives? And how can we go beyond? NAKED follows individuals and communities, experts and artists around the globe who right now, are radically and joyfully redefining gender as we know it. Together, they explore their vision of a future beyond the gender binary. Directed by Stephanie Weimar. Executive Producer is Michael McMahon. Producers are Kevin McMahon and Michael McMahon. (Primitive Entertainment)
RESIDENT ORCA â Crave Original Documentary *previously announced
In the summer of 2018, killer whale Tahlequah makes international news headlines, as she carries her dead calf for more than 17 days and 1,000 miles in an unprecedented show of mourning. Almost 50 years earlier, at the height of the capture era in the Pacific Northwest, four-year-old Lolita is taken in a deadly round-up that separates a mother from her calf, and seals Lolitaâs and her wild relatives’ fate. Today, at 56, Lolita is the last remaining Southern Resident Orca in captivity, living in the same concrete tank, thousands of miles from home, where her endangered family struggles to survive. RESIDENT ORCA tells the story of an unlikely partnership between Indigenous elders, a billionaire, journalists, politicians, a whistle-blowing veterinarian, and an ex-Orca catcher as they take on the impossible task of freeing Lolita from captivity and returning her to the Salish Sea to be near her presumed 92 year old mother once again. Meanwhile, a team of scientists led by killer whale godfather, Ken Balcomb, tracks the wild whale’s decline towards extinction asking what it means for us to reconcile the past and fight for a future where we can all survive. Co-directed and executive produced by Simon Schneider and Sarah Sharkey Pearce. (Everyday Films)
ROCK & ROLL REVIVAL (wt) â Crave Original Documentary
ROCK & ROLL REVIVAL (wt) tells the incredible behind-the-scenes story of how against all odds, a history-changing concert came together. This revealing documentary uncovers a series of interesting characters, murky deals, and broken promises, culminating in John Brower, a young struggling promoter, putting his life on the line (literally) in order to achieve his goal. Directed by Ron Chapman and produced by Trish Dolman, Sally Blake, and Ron Chapman. Written by Phyllis Ellis. (Screen Siren Pictures, Chapman Productions, and Films a Cinq)
âSINCâ: THE CHRISTINE SINCLAIR STORY â TSN *previously announced
An original documentary that charts the rise of Canadaâs greatest soccer player, Christine Sinclair, through both an athletic lens and a tale of humanity, and compassion. (UNINTERRUPTED Canada)
SMOKE & GIFTS â Crave Original Documentary
Filmmaker Stephen Chung pulls back the curtain on the community of musicians and friends of the trailblazing band Broken Social Scene. This stunning POV documentary features never before seen archival footage and pays tribute to the power of indie music and the artists who started out in Toronto bars before rocketing to global fame. (Fathom Film Group)
UNINTERRUPTED Canada: BLACK ICE â TSN *previously announced
UNINTERRUPTED Canada: BLACK ICE explores the journey of Black hockey players from the creation of The Colored Hockey League of the Maritimes to the modern-day NHL, highlighting their often overlooked and marginalized contributions to the game. BLACK ICE elevates these individuals who passionately followed a dream to play a sport that continues to be plagued by racial inequity and their collective aspirations to change a sportâs culture. BLACK ICE is directed by OSCARÂź and EMMYÂź-nominated Hubert Davis and produced by Vinay Virmani. Drake, Adele âFutureâ Nur, LeBron James, Maverick Carter and Scott Moore are Executive Producers. (UNINTERRUPTED Canada, DreamCrew Entertainment, and The SpringHill Company)
UNINTERRUPTED Canada: CHRIS BOUCHER â TSN
From homeless on the streets of MontrĂ©al to NBA Champion, Chris Boucher’s story is one of the great, untold narratives in Canadian sport. (UNINTERRUPTED Canada)
UNINTERRUPTED Canada: THE GRIZZLIE TRUTH â TSN *previously announced
The film explores the mysterious departure of the Vancouver Grizzlies NBA franchise through the eyes of director and superfan Kathleen S. Jayme. Her search, 25 years after the team left, explores the unique and remarkable untold story behind the franchiseâs downfall and the impact it had on the community. Much more than a sports story, THE GRIZZLIE TRUTH is a blend of mystery, mixed with a comedy of errors and a true underdog epic that drives Jaymeâs search for the truth about what happened to the franchise. (Grizz Films in partnership with UNINTERRUPTED Canada)
UNINTERRUPTED Canada: WICK â TSN *previously announced
WICK is a triumphant, reflective, and inspiring story which provides audiences with an intimate and unfiltered snapshot into the world of Canadian icon Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser. The documentary takes viewers on a tour of Wickenheiserâs life journey: from growing up on a farm in Saskatchewan, to teaching women in India and North Korea how to play hockey, to contributing to countless charitable causes and choosing to pursue a medical degree, all the while winning four Olympic hockey golds, seven world championships, and becoming the first female to ever play pro menâs hockey in Europe. (UNINTERRUPTED Canada)
WILFRED BUCK â Crave Original Documentary *previously announced
WILFRED BUCK is a hybrid feature documentary centring on a Cree elder whoâs dedicated his life to unearthing and sharing Indigenous star knowledge. Weaving together his harrowing past and his present life with sky stories, this cinematic film explores colonizationâs attempts to extinguish Indigenous ways of knowing, the values of interrelationship that shape Indigenous science, and how this worldview paves a healthier path forward for our planet. Directed by Lisa Jackson. Producers are Lisa Jackson, Alicia Smith, and Lauren Grant. Executive producers are David Christensen, Nicholas de Pencier, and Jennifer Baichwal. (Door Number 3 in co-production with the National Film Board)
__________________________________
As mentioned earlier in the confirmed Fall lineup, and hot off its Canadian Screen Award-winning success, CTV‘s TRANSPLANT has been ordered for a third season, with 13 new episodes to come. Stars Hamza Haq and Laurence Leboeuf were there to make an appearance.
CTV Original Comedy Series CHILDREN RUIN EVERYTHING also will be back for a second season, and Stars Aaron Abrams, Meaghan Rath and Ennis Esmer were here to tell us about it!
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)
CORUS have announced their upcoming slate of 2022/2023 programming with new and returning programming across their family of networks! With that, they are committing to 200 hours of Canadian content across their portfolio!
Highlights below of what’s to come.
GLOBALÂ
Globalâs acclaimed scripted slate includes Season 2 of last fallâs #1 new Canadian series Family Law*, starring Jewel Staite and EmmyÂź nominee Victor Garber, which was recently greenlit for Season 3 with production currently underway in Vancouver. Also upcoming on Global is Season 2 of Canada/Ireland co-production Departure starring EmmyÂź winner Archie Panjabi and OscarÂź winner Christopher Plummer. Then, from acclaimed filmmaker Director X and Boat Rocker is Robyn Hood, a modern reimagining of the classic Robin Hood story set to begin production this summer in the Toronto and Hamilton area with casting to be announced soon.
Additionally, ET Canada is back on Global for Season 18, fresh from winning four Canadian Screen Awards including Best Talk Program or Series. In addition, ET Canada Weekend has been renewed for Season 2 bringing audiences all the latest entertainment news headlines of the week..
LIFESTYLEÂ
Food Network CanadaÂ
A Top 10 specialty network** and the ultimate culinary destination, Food Network Canada satisfies appetites with the renewal of five standout original series as part of its lineup.
Food Network Canadaâs new greenlights include the most prestigious culinary competition series in the country and a Top 20 overall specialty entertainment program in spring â21*** Top Chef Canada,which is making its return for a milestone 10th season. In the serialized series, a new roster of talented professional chefs will compete in high-octane challenges for the sought-after title of Canadaâs Top Chef. The competitions continue with Season 3 of the larger-than-life themed baking series The Big Bake (7×60 Halloween and 7×60 holiday-theme) from Corus Studios. Celebrated YouTube personality and cookbook author Danni Rose joins the panel of resident judges alongside host Brad Smith, chef and author Eddie Jackson and acclaimed pastry chef Ron Ben-Israel. A Top 10 program on Food Network Canada this spring****, Corus Studiosâ Great Chocolate Showdown (8×60) returns with more delectable ooey-gooey creations in its fourth season.
More from Corus Studios includes previously announced new episodes of sizzling competition series Fire Masters (10×60) with host Dylan Benoit, and the always charismatic John Catucci takes viewers on mouthwatering food travelogue adventures with new episodes of Big Food Bucket List (9×30).Â
Â
The HISTORY ChannelÂ
The HISTORY Channel comes to life this year with more new original content than ever before. The networkâs slate is set to offer a slew of factual and unscripted content including the renewal of five Corus Studios hit series and two groundbreaking documentaries that are sure to educate and entertain audiences.
In honour of Canadaâs National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, a new two-hour documentary sheds light on the history of the relationship between Indigenous people and settlers. True Story (2×60) offers a critical lens to the past, revealing some shameful and heartbreaking truths, as well as uplifting and inspiring hope.
For Remembrance Day, Our War (2×60) uncovers stories about extraordinary individuals who made heroic contributions to WWI and WWII. From the descendent of one of Canadaâs first Black servicemen, to the great-grand-nephew of a female intelligence officer stationed at Bletchley Park, the documentary follows these descendant’s investigations into their familiesâ historic pasts.
New from Corus Studios this fall is previously announced series Deadmanâs Curse (8×60), following a diverse team of explorers on a quest to find a legendary cursed gold mine in B.C. Fan-favourite Corus Studios series Backroad Truckers (Season 2, 8×60), Big Timber (Season 3, 8×60), Lost Car Rescue (Season 2, 6×60), and Rust Valley Restorers (Season 5, 8×60) all return this year, along with Salvage Kings (Season 3, 8×60), which sees Ted taking the ultimate risk of opening his own salvage business with a team of familiar and new faces.
HGTV CanadaÂ
HGTV Canada is the nationâs destination for all things home. With 12 Corus Studios series upcoming, including seven returning favourites, HGTV Canada continues to be the go-to network for inspiring and heart-warming programming that fits any style.
The #1 Canadian Specialty series*****, Island of Bryan (8×60) continues with new episodes this fall, with even more Baeumler adventures upcoming. Corus is prepping a new Untitled Baeumler Project (working title) (10×60) in development and slated for 2023, plus Bryan will team up with co-host Scott McGillivray in the new previously announced competition series Renovation Resort (7×60). The frenemies oversee four talented contractor/design duos as they each transform a waterfront cabin into a one-of-a-kind vacation rental for a chance to win a $100,000 prize. Viewers will see Scott reunited with Debra Salmoni in Season 4 Scottâs Vacation House Rules (14×60), which is newly greenlit.
Sarah Richardson takes on her own vacation rental challenge this fall in the previously announced Sarahâs Mountain Escape (10×60). The series follows Sarah and her husband, Alexander Younger, as they transform a run-down B&B in Whistler, B.C. into a four-season luxury vacation rental property. Another West coast-based design and renovation series is Pamela Anderson in Pamelaâs Garden of Eden (8×60). The previously announced series, coming this fall, follows Pamela as she revitalizes her grandmotherâs six-acre legacy property on Vancouver Island into a stunning retreat. Another new personality to the network is no-nonsense luxury home designer Ali Budd, who leads a creative team to renovate and build incredible million-dollar renovations in Ali Budd (working title) (8×60).
Off the heels of their series premieres, Sebastian Clovis will offer more empathy and experience to overwhelmed homeowners in Season 2 of Gut Job (8×60), while the cross-Canada renovators from Hoarder House Flippers (8×60) will return to tackle a new batch of disaster houses in a brand new season. Renewals continue with a new season of Top 20 Specialty series Rock Solid Builds (8×60)*****, as well as fellow Corus Studios seriesâ Farmhouse Facelift (8×60) and Making it Home with Kortney and Kenny (10×60). New episodes of Property Brothers: Forever Home (20×60) staring HGTV Canadaâs beloved brothers are also confirmed.
W NETWORKÂ
W Network spotlights the prolific career of sex educator Sue Johanson in Sex with Sue (1×90), directed by Lisa Rideout.Viewers will be reintroduced to the former W Network personality and see the unexpected and exciting ways her legacy lives on today.
Corus Studios dives deeper into scripted content with the previously announced set of romantic movies The Love Club (4x120min). The movies follow four women, each dealing with their own dating debacle, who take a vow to call on one another if they are ever in romantic trouble again â a vow that has them resurrecting their “Love Club” ten years later as each of them search for their unique happily-ever-after. The first movie is set to premiere on W Network Winter 2023. The movies will be distributed through Corus Studios.
ADULT SWIMÂ
Corus is pleased to announce its second Canadian original series for Adult Swim, the popular network that offers an unexpected blend of authenticity, originality, and cleverness. The animated Red Ketchup (20Ă30), commissioned and greenlit by Corusâ French channel TĂ©lĂ©toon la nuit, is based on the cult Quebec comic book series from the â80s of the same name. Featuring FBI’s crazed rogue agent, Steve “Red” Ketchup, the series will premiere in Canada on both TĂ©lĂ©toon la nuit and in English on Adult Swim in 2023. Plus, the previously announced first Canadian original series for Adult Swim, Psi Cops (24×11), is set to premiere on Adult Swim Winter 2023. âTopâ detectives Agent Kydd and Agent Felixx, of the secret agency Psi Cops, investigate spiritual phenomena, extraterrestrial life, and paranormal activity using their overly competent incompetence.
KIDSÂ
NELVANAÂ Â
Nelvana continues to deliver premium entertainment for kids with compelling storylines and characters, by nurturing creator-driven projects and best-in-class partnerships. Â
The previously announced Best & Bester (52Ă11) is set to premiere this fall on YTV. A co-production between Nelvana, Eye Present and Gigglebug Entertainment, the series follows two siblings and best friends obsessed with comparing the best things of all time while enjoying the power to transform themselves into anything they want, once a day â if only they can figure out what the best thing to be actually is!
More fresh content from Nelvana landing on Corusâ kids networks this fall includes new episodes of Super Wish (52×11) on YTV, produced by Nelvana and Discoveryâs joint venture, redknot, and created by Nelvanaâs own Vanessa Esteves and Daytime EmmyÂź Award winning art director, Adrian Thatcher. Plus, new episodes of Bakugan: Evolutions (26×22) will bring epic action to TELETOON. Then, everyoneâs favourite P.U.R.S.T. agents continue the adventure with new episodes of the second season of Agent Binky: Pets of the Universe (52Ă11). Produced by redknot, the series is based on the best-selling books by Ashley Spires, published by Corus Entertainmentâs Kids Can Press. Also returning to the network is a new season of Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go! (52×11), accompanied by a brand new special with the beloved engines Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go! Mystery at Lookout Mountain (1×60).
YTVÂ
YTV is the place to be for non-stop Fam Fun! Reaching more kids in its afterschool time block than any other kids station****** The Zone is delivering another year of cool contests, celeb interviews, games and sketches alongside The Zone Weekend and Big Fun Movies.Beloved hosts Spencer, Alex and Duhin return, plus new host Melony will make her on-air debut on June 6 on The Zone.
Premiering on YTV in 2023, Popularity Papers(26×30) is the first scripted series to be announced since Corus became a majority stakeholder in the Academy AwardÂź and Emmy AwardÂź-nominated production company Aircraft Pictures. From Aircraft Pictures and WexWorks Media, the live-action comedy series, developed for television by Amanda Brooke Perrin and showrunner Vivian Lin, is based on the award-winning middle-grade book series by Amy Ignatow. The series tells the story of two best friends, Lydia Goldblatt and Julie Graham-Chang, who are on a mission to crack the popularity code and dismantle this crazy social construct for middle-schoolers everywhere. Using the scientific method, the girls conduct social experiments on their peers with hilarious results.
(Photo credit: Corus)
In addition to the 2022 Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival kicking-off this week this Thursday, April 28, 2022, Hot Docs have several premieres and series to present May 2022! In addition to premiering at the Festival, Jennifer Baichwal‘s INTO THE WEEDS will play at Ted Rogers Hot Docs Cinema. Series INTO SLEAZE NIGHTS celebrates the 2000s with films like SCOTT PILGRIM vs. THE WORLD. THE GODFATHER also celebrates its 50th anniversary and the Series The Movie You Canât Refuse: The Godfather at 50 commemorates this. There’s also free programming at home for you as well!
More details as follows:
FILM PREMIERES
Cinema Ticket $15 (Members tickets from $10)
Streaming Ticket $9.99 (Members from $7.99)
WUHAN WUHAN
D: Yung Chang| China, USA, Canada | 90 min | 2021
Wuhan Wuhan is an observational documentary unfolding during February and March 2020 at the height of the pandemic in Wuhan city, where the coronavirus began. With unprecedented access at the peak of the pandemic lockdown, Wuhan Wuhan goes beyond the statistics and salacious headlines and puts a human experience into the early days of the mysterious virus as Chinese citizens and frontline healthcare workers grappled with an invisible, deadly killer.
Opens Monday, May 9
FIDDLERâS JOURNEY TO THE BIG SCREEN
D: Daniel Raim| USA | 88 min | 2022
Take a nostalgic glimpse back into the making of the 1971 Hollywood masterpiece Fiddler on the Roof in this heartful documentary narrated by actor Jeff Goldblum and featuring rarely seen archival footage.
Pair with a special screening of the original Fiddler on the Roof on Saturday, May 14 / 2 PM
Opens Friday, May 13
INTO THE WEEDS
D: Jennifer Baichwal| Canada | 96 min | 2022
Debuting in-cinema on the heels of opening Hot Docs 2022, the latest from acclaimed director Jennifer Baichwal follows the David vs. Goliath story of a former groundskeeper who takes on a multinational agrochemical corporation after his terminal cancer diagnosis.
Opens Friday, May 20
SERIES & SPECIAL EVENTS
Special Presentation
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
D: Norman Jewison| USA | 179 mins | 1971
A fiddler on the roof. Sounds crazy, no? Watching Norman Jewisonâs epic and timeless 1971 adaptation of the celebrated musical is a tradition all its own.
Playing alongside the new documentary Fiddlerâs Journey to the Big Screen.
Saturday, May 14 / 2 PM
Indie Sleaze Nights
SCOTT PILGRIM VS. THE WORLD
D: Edgar Wright| USA, UK, Canada, Japan | 112 mins | 2010
Scott Pilgrim just met the girl of his dreamsâŠliterally. But for them to date, he must defeat her seven evil exes! From the genre-smashing director of Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead comes âa true originalâ (Entertainment Weekly) powered up by wit, action and groundbreaking visualsâand the perfect opener to our new monthly Indie Sleaze series. Game on!
Friday, May 20 / 9 PM
This Film Should Be Played Loud
RADIOHEAD: MEETING PEOPLE IS EASY
D: Grant Gee| UK | 99 mins | 1998
No one ruled rock music in the 90s quite like Radiohead. On the 25th anniversary of their magnum opus Ok Computer, travel back to the golden age of hits like âKarma Policeâ by following the band on their 1997 world tour.
Saturday, May 21 / 9 PM
Quiet Time: Mindfulness at the Movies
BOREALIS
D: Kevin McMahon| Canada | 94 mins | 2021
Our Quiet Time series begins with a specially recorded guided meditation and this immersive cinematic journey through Canadaâs boreal forest and the chorus of life that calls it home. It’s a wondrous ode to our countryâs iconic wildernessâand a one-way ticket to a calmer, more centred mind.
Each Quiet Time session features a Guided Meditation from Toronto Mindfulness Teacher Moustafa Abdelrahman.
Sunday, May 22 / 1 PM
Human Rights Watch Film Festival
KLABONA KEEPERS
D: Tamo Campos, Jasper Snow-Rosen| Canada | 72 mins | 2022
Klabona Keepers is an intimate portrait of the dynamic Indigenous community that succeeded in protecting the remote Sacred Headwaters, known as the Klabona.
Thursday, May 26 / 7:30 PM
Human Rights Watch Film Festival
MARCH FOR DIGNITY
D: John Eames| Georgia | 74 mins | 2020
This film follows a small group of brave LGBTI+ activists in Tbilisi, Georgia as they attempt to conduct the first Pride march in the country, where homosexuality remains highly stigmatized
Saturday, May 28 / 8 PM
Human Rights Watch Film Festival
MUJER DE SOLDADO (SOLDIERâS WOMAN)
D: Patricia Weiss Risso| Peru | 83 mins | 2021
Mujer de Soldado is a deeply moving picture of female solidarity that finally provides space for the dignity of women’s experiences that has long been denied.
Saturday, May 28 / 3 PM
Human Rights Watch Film Festival
TACHELES: THE HEART OF THE MATTER
D: Jana Matthes, Andrea Schramm| Germany | 104 mins | 2020
This film follows the journey of this familyâs painful confrontation with history that will forever change relationships and explores how trauma of survivors is inherited.
Sunday, May 29 / 1 PM
Human Rights Watch Film Festival
THE LAST SHELTER
D: Ousmane Samassekou | France, Mali, South Africa | 85 mins | 2021
Deep in Mali, in West Africa on the edge of the Sahel Desert, lies the peaceful city of Gaoâa quiet way station for passersby with their eyes set on Europe in hopes of finding opportunity, safety, and a better future.
Sunday, May 29 / 7 PM
CURIOUS MINDS SPEAKER SERIES
Course registration: $69 (Hot Docs Members: $60, $48, Free)
AMERICAN UTOPIAS: POP MUSIC AT THE MOVIES
Ever since the 1930s, the creators of Hollywood have brought popular music to life in their own Utopian image; either a better world was waiting somewhere over the rainbow, or else there was no place like home. In this six-week course, film critic and author Adam Nayman (Politics at the Movies) traces the evolution of the classic American movie musical from its origins up to the present, exploring the new popular music formsârock, pop, disco, and moreâthat have flourished on the big screen. As we survey iconic movies and music videosâfrom The Wizard of Oz and A Hard Dayâs Night to Saturday Night Fever and MTVâweâll examine the cultural shockwaves produced by playing pop music on screen.
Wednesdays, 10 AM, May 25 â June 29
THE ART OF LIVING: THE HISTORY OF INTERIOR DESIGN
For as long as people have lived in homes, theyâve been striving to make their living spaces more beautiful, comfortable and functional. In this new series from Curious Minds favourite Barbara Isherwood (The Great Photographers, The Art of Picasso), weâll trace the history of interior design from the ancient world to the present, assessing the fascinating, often dazzling, designs that have flourished along the way. As we journey from fabulous mansions and castles to sleek modern interiors and humble houses next door, this dynamic new seriesâperfect for fans of our past courses on art and architectureâwill offer a unique perspective on some of historyâs most fascinating people, places and homes.
Mondays, 1 PM, May 30 â July 4
TREASURES OF THE MODERN SILK ROUTES
The fabled Silk Routes were a series of global trade networks that transported luxury goods, decorative objects, people and ideas across some of historyâs most extraordinary civilizations. Using rich archeological and archival materials, this series will explore how that cross-cultural exchange impacted artworks and cultures around the world from the 7th Century onwardsâwith effects that can still be felt today. Both a follow-up to his sold-out course The Treasures of the Ancient Silk Road, and a standalone series, this new course from Curious Minds favourite Sudharshan Durayappah will take you on a whirlwind tour of the arts and cultures that built the modern world.
Tuesdays, 10 AM, June 14 â July 19
FLORENCE: CRADLE OF THE RENAISSANCE
Florence is an almost mythical place in our cultural geography. It is a city so beautiful and so enriched with great art that it occupies a position unique in western civilization. In this new series from Curious Minds favourite Dr. Kenneth Bartlett (Venice: The City of Dreams, Rome: The Eternal City), we will explore this magical place and discuss how it gave birth to the Renaissance, inspired generations of expatriate artists and writers, and institutionalized values and ideas that still reverberate powerfully today.
Thursdays, 1 PM, June 16 â July 21
HOT DOCS AT HOME FREE PROGRAMMING
Available now at hotdocs.ca
Made In Ukraine
THE EARTH IS SPINNING
D: Olena Kyrychenko| Ukraine | 20 mins| 2021
In spring 2020, Ukraine locks down under COVID, causing filmmaker Olena Kyrychenko to move back home with her parents. Deft and engrossing, this quarantine story reveals the hard work of holding memories, dreams, and reality together within a family, and of keeping love alive in everyday life.
Made In Ukraine
DIMA, DMITRY, DMYTRO, GLORY TO THE HEROES
D: Clemens Poole| Ukraine | 24 mins| 2021
A 1995 video shot by the Chepurnyi family on an outing in Luhansk is re-examined 26 years later by director Clemens Poole, with added narration from the perspective of the now-grown-up child in the video. The film brings into question how todayâs values are projected onto images of the past.
Made In Ukraine
DONâT WORRY, THE DOORS WILL OPEN
D: Oksana Karpovych| Ukraine, Canada | 78 mins | 2019
Rolling from the capital Kyiv to smaller provincial towns and the stations between, director Oksana Karpovych delivers a richly detailed first feature. The dynamic rhythms of the daily routines she observes depict her homeland at a crossroads, but like the trains, it always keeps moving forward.
Made In Ukraine
I AM MICHELLE
D: Olena Siyatovska| Ukraine, Netherlands | 20 mins| 2021
The portrait of a 20-year-old transgender woman in Kyiv with dreams of becoming a model, as she returns to her hometown and reconnects with those who accept her while reassessing what she truly wants in life.
Made In Ukraine
THE RAIN WILL NEVER STOP
D: Alina Gorlova| Ukraine, Latvia, Germany, Qatar | 104 mins | 2020
Born to a Kurdish father and Ukrainian mother, Red Cross volunteer Andriy joins the frontlines in Donbas, essentially trading one war for another.
Made In Ukraine
THE VIEW FROM THE WINDOW
D: Anna Korzh| Ukraine | 19 mins| 2019
In the eastern Ukrainian town of Mariinka, 13-year-old Ruslana dreams of becoming a filmmaker, against her parentsâ wishes. In this intimate video diary, shot over five years, she expresses her youthful optimism and captures the harsh realities facing her.
The Movie You Canât Refuse: The Godfather at 50
THE GODFATHER â 50TH ANNIVERSARY 4K RESTORATION
D: Francis Ford Coppola | USA | 175 mins| 1972
See Coppola’s masterpiece in a newly crafted 50th anniversary 4K digital restoration, overseen by the director himself.
WINNER – Oscar, Best Picture / Best Actor in a Leading Role (Marlon Brando) / Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium, Academy Awards, USA 1973
Saturday, May 21 / 1:30 PM
The Movie You Canât Refuse: The Godfather at 50
NAS: TIME IS ILLMATIC
D: One9 | USA | 75 mins| 2014
Widely considered one of the best films ever made about hip-hop, this rarely screened documentary portrait of The Godfather-loving, Michael Corleone-quoting emcee Nas highlights the film’s profound impact on the genre.
Friday, June 3 / 9 PM
The Movie You Canât Refuse: The Godfather at 50
THE FAMILY WHISTLE â EXCLUSIVE TORONTO PREMIERE
D: Michele Salfi Russo| Italy | 65 mins| 2015
Encounter the talented family members and vibrant Italian settings that inspired Coppola’s unforgettable family saga.
Saturday, June 4 / 4 PM
The Movie You Canât Refuse: The Godfather at 50
THE SOPRANOS SESSIONS â EXCLUSIVE TORONTO PREMIERE
D: Kristian Fraga | USA | 114 mins| 2020
What better way to celebrate the cultural legacy of The Godfather than with the exclusive Toronto premiere of these fun documentary tributes to The Sopranos, the show widely considered its creative and spiritual heir?
Saturday, June 25 / 4 PM
The Movie You Canât Refuse: The Godfather at 50
OUR GODFATHER
D: Mark Franchetti, Andrew Meier| UK, Russia | 93 mins| 2018
This stunning documentary thriller offers a riveting portrait of real-life Mafia kingpin-turned informant Tomasso Buscettaâand a vivid reminder of the lessons learned by the fictional Corleone family: “Once a Mafioso, always a Mafioso.”
Sunday, June 26 / 1 PM
For more info, visit https://hotdocs.ca.
Winners of the 2022 SXSW Jury and Special Awards have been unveiled. Winning top prize in the Narrative category is James Morosini‘s self-written, directed and starring I LOVE MY DAD. The autobiographical Comedy also starring Patton Owalt as his catfishing father won raves, touching fans with its heart at the Festival. Documentary MASTER OF LIGHT from Director Rosa Ruth Boesten won the Documentary Feature Competition. The Film centers on Painter George Anthony Morton, who cut his teeth in prison, studying the greats.
Additional winners are as follows:
Feature Film Grand Jury Awards
NARRATIVE FEATURE COMPETITION Presented by Panavision
Winner: I Love My Dad
Director/Screenwriter: James Morosini, Producers: Bill Stertz, Patton Oswalt, Sean O’Grady, Dane Eckerle, Phil Keefe, Daniel Brandt, Sam Slater
âA bold, funny film that marks an impressive feature debut for writer-director-star James Morosini, I Love My Dad finely threads the needle with its tale of an estranged father (Patton Oswalt) who catfishes his son (Morosini) in an attempt to reconnect. Working from a screenplay based on his own real-life story, Morosini displays massive empathy as a filmmaker to get into the mind of the father he feels betrayed by, and also as an actor portraying the impact of that betrayal. Heâs aided by a great cast, particularly Oswalt.â
Special Jury Recognition for Extraordinary Cinematic Vision: Cast and Crew, It Is in Us All
âEvery creative element of It Is in Us All, from its editing and music to its performances and cinematography, works in tandem to craft a haunting atmosphere. Writer-director-actor Antonia Campbell-Hughesâ extraordinary feature debut is a remarkable example of how the various artistic facets of a movie can converge to create something cinematic, in the purest and most soulful sense: a work that accesses some part of you that feels hidden away.â
Special Jury Recognition for Breakthrough Performance: Elizaveta Yankovskaya, Nika
âIn her first lead role in a feature, Elizaveta Yankovskaya delivers a knockout portrait brimming with rage, joy, despair, uncertainty and 20-something yearning. She plays Nika Turbina, a real-life figure who, after fame was thrust upon her as a child poet, finds herself past her prime before she’s 30. Whatever narrative conjectures the intimate drama might make, there isnât a moment in Yankovskayaâs breathtaking performance that doesnât ring true with messy emotional complexity, or that doesnât feel like unpredictable life itself unfolding before our eyes.â
A big thanks to our Narrative Feature Competition presenting sponsor Panavision, the global provider of optics, cameras, and end-to-end services that power the creative vision of filmmakers.
DOCUMENTARY FEATURE COMPETITION Presented by IMAX
Winner:Â Master of Light
Director: Rosa Ruth Boesten, Producers: Roger Ross Williams, Anousha Nzume, Ilja Roomans
âIn both substance and form, Master of Light is a gift. The earnest and gifted painter George Anthony Morton embeds viewers in his world as he struggles to render his mother â both on the canvas and in his psyche. Boesten disabuses us of static tropes about Americaâs merciless drug war and about contemporary art. With astonishing intimacy, the filmâs visuals build an artful bridge between two- and three-dimensional realms that are deeply rooted and utterly transcendent. Put this painting of a film in a museum, next to a Rembrandt and a Morton.â
Special Jury Recognition for Exceptional Intimacy in Storytelling: Bad AxeDirector: David Siev, Producers: Jude Harris, Diane Quon, Katarina Vasquez, David Siev
âStories centered on the pursuit of the âAmerican Dreamâ abound. Rarely do they portray the sacrifices and recurrent trials that the promise of a better life entails the way director David Siev accomplishes with Bad Axe. Examining those closest to him with profound compassion and incisive curiosity, he paints a distinct and easily recognizable portrait of the alienation many feel in the place they call home, by birth or by circumstance. For its ability to reveal something unexpected about the American fabric and the American family, Bad Axe deserves celebration.â
Special Jury Recognition for Acting in a Documentary: Steve Glew, Pez Outlaw
âSteve Glew is the kind of colorful character that most documentarians dream of capturing, a born storyteller with a crackerjack sense of scene-setting and comic timing. In the tradition of Muhammad Ali in The Greatest and Evel Knievel in Viva Kneivel!, The Pez Outlawâs reenactment sequences cast the only actor who could credibly bring Mr. Glewâs exploits to life: the man himself. Thereâs something uniquely American about Glewâs mixture of chutzpah, ingenuity, charisma, and grievance that makes him a mesmerizing onscreen presence.â
Since 1970 IMAX Documentaries have immersed audiences in real-life stories told on a grand scale. In 2022 that tradition continues as a new generation of filmmakers turns its lens to a theatrical experience like no other. Today, IMAX is honored to present this yearâs documentary award to recognize the future â gifted storytellers who are bringing their stories to audiences in powerful and wondrous ways.
SHORT FILM GRAND JURY AWARDS Presented by IMDbPro
NARRATIVE SHORT COMPETITION
Winner: All the Crows in the World
Director/Screenwriter: Tang Yi, Producer: Haozheng Li
âThe jury recognizes All The Crows in the World as the Jury Award Winner, a film that reminded us of the power of short-form cinema as a stand-alone art form on its own. The film’s balancing of surrealism, bizarreness, tenderness, and reality was only outdone by its inventive narrative and critiques of patriarchal culture, paired with execution by a director who is clearly in command of her craft.â
Special Jury Recognition for Directing and Community Filmmaking: Glitter Ainât Gold
Director/Screenwriter: Christian Nolan Jones, Producers: Maia Miller, T. Popps, O. Valerie Nicolas
âThe jury awards Glitter Ainât Gold a Special Jury Recognition for Directing and Community Filmmaking, which stood out for its vibrant narrative and authentically palpable energy filled with compelling visuals and inventive editing harmoniously coupled with powerfully nostalgic music. It was clear that its level of specificity was a direct result of a community that came together to make a profound piece of art that touched us deeply.â
Special Jury Recognition for Outstanding Performances: Aphrodite Armstrong, ââKyle Riggs, West by God
âThe jury awards a Special Jury Recognition for Outstanding Performances to Aphrodite Armstrong and ââKyle Riggs for West by God. Their dynamic and visceral performances beautifully emulate the powerful themes within the film about the human condition and the need for love, no matter what your walk of life.â
DOCUMENTARY SHORT COMPETITION
Winner: Long Line of Ladies
Directors: Rayka Zehtabchi, Shaandiin Tome, Producers: Garrett Schiff, Pimm Tripp-Allen, Rayka Zehtabchi, Sam Davis, Dana Kurth
âLong Line of Ladies presents an affecting perspective on celebrated generational cultural traditions. The tapestry of beautiful cinematography and vivid character moments elevates the filmmakersâ vision, inviting us into a devoted community that is committed to preserving their heritage.â
Special Jury Recognition for Visual Reflection: not even for a moment do things stand still
Director: Jamie Meltzer, Producers: Annie Marr, Jamie Meltzer, Suzanne Brennan Firstenberg
âIn a simple, yet profoundly moving way, not even for a moment do things stand still allows us to sincerely reflect on the lives we have lost over the past two years. The poetic visual language gives us a new perspective on a sadly familiar topic of love, life and loss.â
MIDNIGHT SHORTS
Winner: Moshari
Director/Screenwriter: Nuhash Humayun, Producers: Bushra Afreen, Nuhash Humayun
âMoshari is a terrifying, spine-chilling horror tale centering two sisters that renders a fresh take on blood sucking creatures set in an non-traditional post-apocalyptic world. The compelling performances, the haunting visuals and the layered storytelling highlight the directorâs command of the genre and make him someone to watch. Nuhash Humayun has the ability to take recognizable elements, flip them on their head and turn them into nightmares. Moshari has created an allegorical story that will resonate with the viewer on a deeper level.â
Special Jury Recognition for Powerful âShort Tripâ: Omi
Director: Kelly Fyffe-Marshall, Screenwriters: Tamar Bird, Kelly Fyffe-Marshall, Producer: Tamar Bird
âUnexpected, effective and engaging film that in under three minutes manages to set up the lore, get us invested in the characters, while leaving us fulfilled and still craving more. Kelly Fyffe-Marshall has created a grounded supernatural story that is provocative, mysterious and unforgettable.â
ANIMATED SHORTS
Winner: Bestia
Director: Hugo Covarrubias, Screenwriters: MartĂn Erazo, Hugo Covarrubias, Producers: Tevo DĂaz, Hugo Covarrubias
âBestia is an exquisite, intimate peek at the dreams and memories of a sadistic secret agent, set in a tactile stop-motion non-wonderland, where a porcelain exterior isnât enough to keep the damage away.â
Special Jury Recognition for Unexpected Emotion: Les Larmes de la Seine
Directors/Screenwriters: Yanis Belaid, Eliott Benard, Producer: Carlos De Carvalho
âThe magic trick of this film is that it describes great tragedy almost entirely with joy. History comes alive as we are immersed in raw beautiful humanity that jokes, laughs, feels nervous, fights, and dies. By illustrating extreme distress with astonishing euphoria, the directors create a fever dream âphoto negativeâ glimpse of what weâve missed by living with hatred and abuse rather than love and understanding. Like a sad melody played in major key, the film is both haunting and uplifting while stirring emotions like no film weâve ever seen.â
Special Jury Recognition for Visceral Storytelling: Something in the Garden
Director/Screenwriter/Producer: Marcos SĂĄnchez
âIt is so important to keep your brain open to play, and we commend this film’s playful spirit combined with its beautiful animation, reminiscent of a graphic novel. It felt at the perfect cross section of horror and ASMR, using impeccable pacing and sound design to take us on a visceral journey that thrilled, scared and delighted us. A brilliant use of the animated short form medium!â
MUSIC VIDEOS
Winner: DesirĂ©e Dawson – âMeet Me at the Lightâ
Director/Screenwriter: Alexander Farah
âWithout a single detail wasted, we were all moved to tears by this powerful story from a first-time music video director. Featuring equally beautiful performances, editing, and cinematography, we present the Best Music Video award to DesirĂ©e Dawson – Meet Me at the Light by Alexander Farah.â
Special Jury Recognition for Going the Extra Mile: Myd – âLet You Speakâ
Director/Screenwriter: Dan Carr
âFunny, unexpected, and with a meta wink to the industry, our special jury mention went above and beyond our expectations, taking us around the world to various locations with a group of ragtag misfits that made us LOL along the way. Hence, the âExtra Mileâ award. The Special Jury Award for Going The Extra Mile Goes to Myd âLet You Speakâ by Dan Carr.â
TEXAS SHORTS
Winner: Folk Frontera
Directors: Alejandra Vasquez, Sam Osborn
âCentered around characters who call the desert borderlands of Texas their home, Folk Frontera turns the traditional documentary form on its head. Filmmakers Alejandra Vasquez and Sam Osborn imbue the documentary with the same magic and surrealism that feels authentic to the Chihuahuan Desert and its communities. Dreamlike visuals and nuanced presentation of the subjectsâ stories make for a special experience.â
Special Jury Recognition for Vision: Birds
Director/Screenwriter: Katherine Propper, Producer: Sophia Loffreda
âKatherine Propperâs Birds feels both fresh and warmly familiar to anyone whoâs grown up during a Central Texas summer. Members of the filmâs exceptional young ensemble shine in natural performances that help us see gorgeously shot scenery in a new light.â
TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL SHORTS
Winner: Honeybee
Director/Screenwriter/Producer: Emilio Vazquez Reyes
âHoneybee is a beautifully-written, thoughtfully-crafted film that unfolds with a gentle and disciplined reveal, helping to humanize the experience of an undocumented immigrant. We felt this film was a graceful way to tell a difficult story, using all of the important elements like cinematography, music and editing to both advance the story and sincerely engage with the audience.â
Special Jury Recognition for Artistic Expression: Itâs Getting Bad Again
Director/Screenwriter: Sarah Reyes, Producers: Sarah Reyes, Kenneth Rogers
âAs an artist, Sarah Reyes captures a roller-coaster of an emotional exploration that balances darkness, humor and music in a poetic and refreshing way, all the while prompting an important dialogue about mental health awareness.â
A big thanks to our presenting sponsor, IMDbPro. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, IMDbPro is the essential resource for entertainment industry professionals. This membership-based service empowers entertainment professionals with information and tools designed to help them achieve success throughout their career. IMDbPro has an ongoing commitment to supporting and collaborating with organizations that create greater diversity, equity and inclusion in the entertainment industry and is a service of IMDb, the #1 movie website in the world. Learn more at www.imdbpro.com and follow @IMDbPro
MailChimp is another proud supporter of the Shorts program and have created their own award to help further the career of one lucky filmmaker, as well as provided financial prize support for all of the SXSW Shorts Jury Awards winners.
EPISODIC PILOT COMPETITION
Winner: Something Undone
Director: Nicole Dorsey, Screenwriters: Michael Musi, Madison Walsh, Producers: Max Topplin, Jordan Hayes
âThe jury honors Something Undone for cleverly rethinking and repurposing oft-used elements of mystery/horror storytelling. The subtlety of the episodeâs writing and acting are complemented by specific and stylized direction and cinematography. And above all, Something Undone sets itself apart with its smart use of diegetic sound, establishing quietly humorous commentary on the sounds of the genre at large â while also totally terrifying us in just ten minutes.â
Special Jury Recognition for Unique Vision in Writing and Directing: Pamela Ribon and Sara GunnarsdĂłttir, My Year of Dicks
âFor its thoughtful curation of imagery combined with a funny and inventive script, the Special Jury Recognition for Unique Vision in Writing and Directing goes to Pamela Ribon and Sara GunnarsdĂłttir for My Year of Dicks. Their bold voices overlap to make for an experience of feminine youth and sexual exploration that is both relatable and entirely its own.â
SXSW Film Design Awards Presented by Adobe
POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION
Winner:Â More Than I Remember
Designer: Yen Tan, Maya Edelman
âThis poster evokes so many feelings at once, from the captivating gaze to the lush swirl of colors that surround you â it draws you in, tempting you to look harder, to try and unlock whatever secret is hidden just beyond reach. The text and illustration are perfectly integrated to create something powerful and mysterious, catching not just your attention, but your imagination as well.”
Special Jury Recognition: The Sentence of Michael Thompson
Designer: Juan Miguel Marin
“Understated intensity and a timeless quality make this poster truly effective â from across the room it immediately catches the eye. Type, design, and image work together to form a complete narrative, one you want to know more about. Understated intensity and a timeless quality make it truly effective.”
TITLE DESIGN COMPETITION
Winner: Foundation Title Sequence
Designer: Ronnie Koff
Company: Imaginary Forces
âA beautifully constructed sequence that encapsulates the showâs futuristic setting as humans have colonized the galaxy. Using a particle system to form these incredible images each frame is a visual triumph as we journey through this vibrant main title.â
Special Jury Recognition: The White Lotus Title Sequence
Designers: Katrina Crawford, Mark Bashore
Company: Plains of Yonder
âThis titleâs distinctive design perfectly sets up the audience for the show and reflects the suffering before enlightenment of its protagonists. Its stunning illustrations capture the soul of the story and are enhanced by the flawless score.â
XR EXPERIENCE COMPETITION
Winner: On the Morning You Wake (To the End of the World)
Directors: Dr. Jamaica Heolomeleikalani Osorio, Mike Brett, Steve Jamison, Pierre Zandrowicz, Arnaud Colinart, Screenwriters: Mike Brett, Steve Jamison, Jamaica Heolimeleikalani Osorio, Producers: Arnaud Colinart, Mike Brett, Steve Jamison, Jo-Jo Ellison
âOn The Morning You Wake (To the End of the World) is an emotionally impactful and beautifully told story, delivered with stunning technical craftsmanship. This project explores the potential of immersive experiences, refining the grammar of spatial narrative. This particular story deals with the urgency of nuclear disarmament that has very unfortunately come into sharp focus due to current events. It effectively presents a massive geopolitical issue and grounds it in emotional and personal stories, translating what are usually abstract concepts into an embodied context.â
Special Jury Recognition for Immersive Storytelling: (Hi)story of a Painting: The Light in the Shadow
Directors: Quentin Darras, Gaëlle Mourre, Screenwriter: Gaëlle Mourre, Producers: Charlotte Mikkelborg, Gaëlle Mourre
â(Hi)story of a Painting: The Light in the Shadow receives a Special Jury Recognition for immersive storytelling. This experience uses the medium of VR to transport us into history, revealing the story of a lesser known female baroque artist, her resistance to the patriarchy and determination in the face of adversity.â
SXSW Special Awards
Fandor New Voices Award
Fandor is proud to present the first ever Fandor New Voices Award, celebrating an outstanding feature making its worldwide premiere this year at the 35th annual SXSW festival. At Fandor, we are delighted to elevate the work of inspiring, imaginative, and independent storytellers, so it is with great pleasure that we present the Fandor New Voices Award to a female or person of color who is making their directorial debut with a Narrative Feature or Documentary. Fandor is and always will be proud to uplift the work of these amazing filmmakers.
Fandor New Voices Award
Presented to: What We Leave Behind
Director: Iliana Sosa, Producers: Emma D. Miller, Iliana Sosa, Isidore Bethel (co-producer)
Adam Yauch Hörnblowér Award
In honor of a filmmaker whose work strives to be wholly its own, without regard for norms or desire to conform. The Adam Yauch Hörnblowér Award is presented to a filmmaker from our Visions screening category.
Adam Yauch Hörnblowér Award
Presented to: Chee$e
Director/Screenwriter: Damian Marcano, Producer: Alexa Marcano
Adobe Editing Award
Adobe is committed to celebrating creativity for all and empowering everyone to bring their stories to life. By creating greater opportunity for all voices, we can enact change in our communities and move the world forward. We are proud to celebrate the art and craft of editing as we grant the Adobe Editing Award at the SXSW Film Awards. We are also pleased to spotlight this yearâs incredible title and poster designers through the Film Design Awards presented by Adobe.
Adobe Editing Award
Presented to: Everything Everywhere All At Once
Editor: Paul Rogers
Louis Black âLone Starâ Award
To honor SXSW co-founder/director Louis Black, a jury prize was created in 2011 called the Louis Black âLone Starâ Award, presented to a feature film world premiering at SXSW that was shot primarily in Texas or directed by a current resident of Texas. (Opt-in Award)
Louis Black âLone Starâ Award
Winner: What We Leave Behind
Director: Iliana Sosa, Producers: Emma D. Miller, Iliana Sosa, Isidore Bethel (co-producer)
âIliana Sosa’s exquisite documentary What We Leave Behind is a love letter to her Mexican grandfather, whose final decline she chronicles with artful grace. It is also a moving look at a family disconnected by both border and dreams, and how their patriarch, too old now for his monthly 20-hour bus rides from Durango into Texas, worries who will hold the center once he’s gone. Eighty-nine year old Julian has the face and gravitas of an old time movie star. Sosa has made a profound, gorgeous movie worthy of her precious subject.â
ZEISS Cinematography Award
ZEISS Cine Lenses is honored to be returning this year to support the SXSW film community in the Cinematography category. We believe that by supporting the art within the frame, ZEISS helps filmmakers realize their creative vision.
ZEISS Cinematography Award
Winner: A Vanishing Fog
Cinematographer: Gio Park
Mailchimp Support the Shorts Award
Mailchimp is committed to uplifting and supporting creators. Weâre so proud to support SXSW by helping short films win big. We congratulate the honorees of the Support the Shorts Award as well as the entire SXSW-invited filmmaking community.
Mailchimp Support the Shorts Award
Presented to: The Voice Actress
Director/Screenwriter: Anna J. Takayama, Producer: Joe Skinner
âWith its impeccable compositions and captivating lead performance, The Voice Actress offers a sensitive peek behind the scenes of an ever-changing industry. This patient study of imagination and aging achieves extraordinary depth thanks to Anna J. Takayamaâs soulful direction, and we are delighted to support the career of such a remarkable talent.â
For advertising opportunites please contact mrwill@mrwillwong.com