Shamier Anderson
#SPOTTED: ADAM DIMARCO, ATTICUS MITCHELL, EDGE, STEPHAN JAMES, SHAMIER ANDERSON & MORE AT “HOUSE OF STARS” BALL HOCKEY CHARITY GAME
It’s all about All Stars! The Toronto Maple Leafs hosted their first ever House of Stars, a celebrity ball hockey game in support of House of Hockey. The star-studded ball hockey game held at MLSE Launchpad, where a special pop-up activationw as created for the event, bringing-in Maple Leafs alumni, celebrities and special guests. This affair is a pre-cursor to NHL All Star game festivities taking place in Toronto this weekend!
The event was to raise funds for House of Hockey presented by Tim Hortons, a ball hockey league created by Maple Leafs and drew house to give youth access to free hockey programming by addressing the barriers keeping youth on the sidelines. More here.
Among the stars in attendance were Murda Beatz, Stephan James, Shamier Anderson, Edge (Adam Copeland), Adam DiMarco, Atticus Mitchell, Isaiah Mustafa, Johnny Orlando and more.
Some Snaps:
(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)
#SPOTTED: 2023 THE LEGACY AWARDS HIGHLIGHTS
Originating in 2020, The Legacy Awards returned again at History in Toronto’s East End, celebrating excellence in the Black Canadian community in Entertainment. Brought to us by The Black Academy, co-founded by Actors and Brothers Stephan James and Shamier Anderson, the gala brought out leaders in the community in a fashionable affair to celebrate the cause.
Honourees this year included:
JULLY BLACK – Icon Award
TONYA WILLIAMS – Visionary Award
X – Trailblazer Award
LU KALA – Emerging Artist Award
KIA NURSE – Legacy Athlete Award
Williams made a poignant statement when accepting her award about the importance of celebrating storytellers from under-represented communities. “Stories about the trauma of Black people, Indigenous, Asian, South Asian people of colour are the stories that win awards, and whoever tells those stories are more likely to win those awards…. You know what happens to those who win those awards? Doors open for them.”.
Several stars and notables walked the Red Carpet prior to the event, including the likes of Stephan James, Shamier Anderson, Cameron Bailey, Maxine Bailey, Jully Black, Donovan Bailey, Lu Kala, Tonya Lee-Williams, X, Tracey Moore. Marci Ien, Dr. Jill Andrew, Saukratres, Tynomi Banks, Kimora Amour, Lamorne Morris and more. Keshia Chanté carried hosting duties for the night.
See a reel of highlights below:
The Awards aired on CBC and are available to stream on CBC Gem.
(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)
#FIRSTLOOK: “THE PORTER”, “SORT OF” AND “BROTHER” TAKE TOP HONOURS AT 2023 CANADIAN SCREEN AWARDS
Canadian Screen Week 2023 has concluded with celebrations taking place over four days at Toronto’s Meridian Hall, honouring the achievements of Canadian talent in film, television, and digital media.
History was made this year in the Film and Television categories with records being set. CBC’s The Porter went on to win a record 12 Canadian Screen Awards, leading television honours overall. Wins include: Best Drama Series; Best Direction, Drama Series, presented by Playback; Best Writing, Drama Series; and Best Guest Performance, Drama Series for Alfre Woodward. The award for Best Lead Performer, Drama Series went to Hamza Haq for CTV’s Transplant, making this his third consecutive win as a lead in the series.
In Comedy, the sophomore season of CBC’s Sort Of took home an inpressive seven Canadian Screen Awards. Among those wins was Best Comedy Series; Best Lead Performer, Comedy, presented by the Canada Media Fund, for Bilal Baig; Best Guest Performance, Comedy for Amanda Brugel; and Best Writing, Comedy, for Bilal Baig and Fab Filippo, marking back-to-back wins for the pair in this category.
Film honours were led by Clement Virgo’s Brother, which like The Porter, received a record 12 Canadian Screen Awards at The Cinematic Arts Awards, presented by Telefilm Canada and supported by Cineplex, on Thursday, April 13, including: Best Motion Picture; Achievement in Direction, and Adapted Screenplay for Clement Virgo; Performance in a Leading Role, presented by Telefilm Canada, for Lamar Johnson; and Performance in a Supporting Role for Aaron Pierre.
Special Awards were also handed-out through the week, culminating a star-studded conclusion to the week with the likes of Ryan Reynolds and Catherine O’Hara in-attendance. Honourees this year include:
–Ryan Reynolds, recipient of the Humanitarian Award, presented by Paramount+, was presented his award in a touching moment (see Reel below) by Everett Ho, SickKids patient ambassador, and Lisa Charendoff, Associate Director, Community Stakeholder Relations at SickKids Foundation. Winner Amanda Brugel also wanted Reynolds in on her victory photo!
–Catherine O’Hara, recipient of the Academy Icon Award, presented by CBC, received her award from Karen Robinson, her former Schitt’s Creek co-star.
–Simu Liu, recipient of the Radius Award presented by MADE | NOUS, recognizing a Canadian whose work is making waves globally
–Lisa LaFlamme, recipient of the Gordon Sinclair Award for Broadcast Journalism, recognizing a Canadian broadcast journalist for their exceptional body of work in broadcast journalism
–Pierre Bruneau, the recipeint of the Lifetime Achievement Award for exceptional work with an impact at home or abroad
–Peter MacNeill, recipient of the Earle Grey Award, presented by eOne for their exceptional body of acting work in Canadian television and film
–Tracy Moore, recipient of the Changemaker Award, which recognises and honours those in the media community in Canada who are using their voice or platform to call out systemic racism and discrimination, supporting and amplifying the voices of those who are actively engaged in anti-racist work, and seeking structural transformations in media, film, and television in Canada that promote values of equity and inclusion
–Paul Pope (post-humous), the recipient of the Academy Board of Directors’ Tribute
–Jennifer Podemski, recipient of the Academy Board of Directors’ Tribute, honouring a Canadian individual for their extraordinary impact on the growth of the Canadian media industry
A Reel of Highlights from tonight’s Red Carpet:
The Canadian Screen Awards with Samantha Bee on Sunday, April 16, 2023 on CBC and CBC Gem at 8 PM (9 AT, 9:30 NT). The winner of the Cogeco Fund Audience Choice Award will be unveiled on the broadcast. Special guests also include Amy Poehler, Mae Martin, Adam DiMarco and Lamar Johnson.
(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)
#SPOTTED: KEANU REEVES, SHAMIER ANDERSON AND CHAD STAHELSKI AT THE CANADIAN PREMIERE OF “JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4”
Toronto got a huge surprise tonight as international megastar Keanu Reeves made an appearance at the Canadian Premiere of JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4. This latest Film in the celebrated Franchise, got the Red Carpet treatment and then some as The Black Academy, presented the affair at Scotiabank Theatre. The organization aims to empower, elevate and promote equality among the Black community and one of its founders, Scarborough’s very own Shamier Anderson, also happens to star in the Film as Tracker. Director Chad Stahelski also joined Anderson and Reeves for an introduction of the Screening.
While there was originally a Red Carpet set to take place at the Premiere, the unexpected passing of star Lance Reddick, who stars as Charon, had altered plans for this, out of respect. Stahelski took a moment to remember Reddick when introducing the Film to the audience.
This latest chapter in the John Wick franchise has already received much praise, with Critics calling it the best film yet out of the four films. Toronto-raised Reeves also surprised the audience at the SXSW Film Festival in Austin last week.
See highlights below:
Though bittersweet, this was such an incredible night, and a special energy could be felt throughout the theatre as everyone was processing both excitement and grief at once.
Lionsgate and Cineplex Pictures release JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 March 24, 2023.
(Photo/video credit: George Pimentel/Mr. Will Wong)
#SXSW: “A LOT OF NOTHING”
By Amanda Gilmore
Successful, married couple James (Y’lan Noel) and Vanessa (Cleopatra Coleman) are shocked at what they witness on the news one night. What they see is cellphone footage of their police officer neighbour, Brian (Justin Hartley), shooting an unarmed youth. After debating what they should do, Vanessa takes the reins and holds Brian hostage.
It’s ironic that it’s called A Lot of Nothing, considering it’s about many things. Co-Writer and Director Mo McRae makes an impact with this bold satirical Feature debut. Playing out over one night, the central story focuses on holding police officer Brian hostage. Hartley is strong as the manipulative Brian. He uses the layered Script to create mystery around his character, causing the audience to question the intent behind his motives.
McRae and fellow Screenwriter Sarah Kelly Kaplan use this central story to create an in-depth character study. Coleman is a force as the wealthy, determined Vanessa. Her commitment to Vanessa’s passion for her expensive material items allows levity on these heavy topics. The tension she shares with James is immense. Noel excels in playing James’ compassion against his desire to make Vanessa happy.
This tension ignites further when A Lot of Nothing introduces James’ brother Jamal (Toronto’s Shamier Anderson) and his expecting partner Candy (Lex Scott Davis). Through these two couples, critiques on wealth and familial acceptance shine through. The extravagance of James and Vanessa conflict with the naturalistic lifestyle of Jamal and Candy. However, when the guests find out what their hosts are doing they become active participants. Particularly Jamal, played to great effect by Canada’s own Anderson, who sees this as an opportunity to get revenge on the police officers who’ve targeted him. And Scott Davis is captivating as the forgiving, aura reading Candy, who has something to hide.
Overall, A Lot of Nothing is an audacious film that touches on many socio-political topics through its exquisitely-written characters.
A Lot of Nothing screens at SXSW ’22 as follows
In-Person:
Sunday, March 13 at 4:45 PM EST – Alamo Lamar D
Monday, March 14 at 1:45 PM EST – Violet Crown Cinema 2
Monday, March 14 at 2:15 PM EST – Violet Crown Cinema 4
Friday, March 18 at 4:30 PM EST – Alamo Lamar A
Online:
Monday, March 14 at 10:00 AM EST – Available for 48 hours
#FIRSTLOOK: “INVASION” COMING OCTOBER TO APPLE TV+
Arriving on Apple TV+ this October, INVASION is a character-driven Alien invasion story told around the world. Toronto’s own Shamier Anderson stars!
Synopsis:
INVASIONis a ten-episode Science Fiction Drama series “Invasion,” from Academy Award-nominated and two-time Emmy Award-nominated producer Simon Kinberg (“X-Men” films, “Deadpool” films, “The Martian“) and David Weil (“Hunters”). The sweeping, character-driven Apple Original series, produced by Boat Rocker Studios, will make its global debut on Apple TV+ with the first three episodes on October 22, 2021, followed by new episodes weekly, every Friday.
Set across multiple continents, “Invasion” follows an alien invasion through different perspectives around the world. The series stars Shamier Anderson (“Bruised,” “Awake”), Golshifteh Farahani (“Extraction,” “Paterson,” “Body of Lies”), Sam Neill (“Jurassic World: Dominion,” “Peaky Blinders”), Firas Nassar (“Fauda”) and Shioli Kutsuna (“Deadpool 2,” “The Outsider”).
INVASION arrives on Apple TV+ October 22, 2021.
(Photo/video credit: Apple TV+)
#TIFF20: “BRUISED”
By Amanda Gilmore for Mr. Will Wong
DISCLAIMER: Bruised is screening as a work-in-progress at TIFF ’20
Halle Berry makes her directorial debut with Bruised. It follows disgraced MMA fighter Jackie “Justice” (Halle Berry) who has been struggling to get by after losing an important match years ago. Since then, she’s been living with her Manager-Bboyfriend Desi (Adan Canto). One night, Desi tricks Jackie into an underground fight and her passion for the sport reignites. That same night, her six-year-old son whom she abandoned years ago, is left at her doorstep. This sends Jackie on a redemption path both to prove herself both in the ring, and as a mother to Manny.
Bruised follows the classic Athlete/Fighter redemption archetype, told through a new lens. While this has been explored before with a central female character, typically see these stories with men in the lead. Berry is well aware that a woman can pack a punch too. Early, she throws us right into the ring in Jackie’s enraged world. Her short-temper is shown in the opening scene where she attacks a teenager because he films her while she’s changing. Jackie’s brute force is shown also to us immediately. In the underground match, we see just how violent and ruthless she can be when faced with a worthy competitor.
At the center of everything is Berry’s performance. She does an excellent job channeling Jackie’s pent-up rage, but also showing her weaknesses. It’s clear in the First Act that Jackie is ready to fire after her previous match. Also, there is tenderness to her when she is paired with Manny. Those quiet moments between mother and son allow Berry to show her range. It’s also an honest depiction of the female personality, that a duality of tough and gentle can co-exist.
Berry has surrounded herself with strong talent. Toronto’s own, and TIFF ’19 Rising Star Shamier Anderson is great as Jackie’s newly-minted Manager with an agenda. Canto turns-in a strong performance as Jackie’s supportive, yet abusive Manager-Boyfriend. However, the most memorable performance from the Supporting Cast comes from TIFF ’20 Rising Star Sheila Atim. She commands the screen as Jackie’s ‘zen’ Trainer.
Berry sets her Film amidst the tough streets of Newark, New Jersey, taking us into Jackie‘s heart and soul. She shoots the training and fight scenes with passion and intensity. The Film’s blockbuster fight scenes are its brightest moments. While the story veers often to other competing plot lines surrounding her family and love, which ultimately fail to come to full fruition and get resolved, we wanted more training and fights and that always should have been the central focus. A bit more judicious editing and a shorter run time would benefit this work-in-progress.
Bruised screens at TIFF ’20:
Online at Bell Digital Cinema
Sat, Sep 12 7:45pm
Visa Skyline Drive-In at CityView
Fri, Sep 18 9:00pm
Visa Skyline Drive-In at CityView
#INTERVIEW: “ANNE WITH AN E”, “CARDINAL: BLACKFLY” + “A COLONY” TAKE TOP HONOURS AT THE 2019 CANADIAN SCREEN AWARDS BROADCAST GALA
Wrapping-up Canadian Screen Week, March 25-31, 2019, the 7th edition of the Canadian Screen Awards Broadcast Gala took place tonight at Toronto’s Sony Centre for the Performing Arts. The week-long series of awards and events presented by the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television, serve to honour excellence across multiple platforms in the Country from Film, to TV to Digital Media.
Noticeably absent this year was these presence of English-language Feature films up for Best Motion Picture, with French-language films leading the way. Coming-of-Age Drama A Colony: Blackfly by Director Geneviève Dulude-De Celles won the coveted award ultimately. Teen Actress Emilie Bierre won Best Actress for her work in the Film which sees her grappling with bullying entering junior high school.
The Great Darkened Days earlier in the week swept the Gala Honouring Cinematic Arts, held at the Four Seasons Hotel, with wins for Sound Editing, Costume Design, Art Direction/Production Design, Cinematography and Actress in a Supporting Role (Sarah Gadon).
Ryerson graduate Jasmin Mozaffari was awarded for Direction with her debut effort FIRECRACKERS which premiered at TIFF to much acclaim. “I am honoured to be part of the group where 60% of the nominees were women” , she says.
ANNE WITH AN E had tied with SCHITT’S CREEK with 15 nominations apiece. The former would prevail though with seven wins at the Broadcast Gala including Best Drama Series and Best Lead Actress, Drama Series (Teen Actress Amybeth McNulty). CARDINAL also would win seven Awards in the Television categories including Best Actor and Actress in a Drama Program or Limited Series, Billy Campbell and Karine Vanasse.
Honouring a Canadian talent making waves abroad, the Radius Award was presented tonight for the first time ever to Toronto’s Stephan James who starred both in Awards Season contender and winning, IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK and also Amazon Prime Series HOMECOMING alongside Julia Roberts. He came with his brother Shamier Anderson and they told the Newsroom about their joint venture, The B.L.A.C.K Ball which earlier this Awards Season was held for the first time ever in Los Angeles with the likes of Tessa Thompson, Tiffany Haddish, Jesse Williams, Amandla Stenberg and more attending.
Other Awards handed-out tonight included the Academy Icon Award which honoured the Cast of THE KIDS IN THE HALL. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Filmmaker Deepa Mehta (Water, Beeba Boys), while Funnywoman Mary Walsh was handed the Earle Gray Award. The first-ever Industry Leadership Award went to our dear friends at Entertainment One.
For the first time ever this year, the Canadian Screen Arts Festival took place at Cineplex theatres every Saturday in March from Iqaluit to Vancouver, giving audience a chance to see some of this year’s nominated Films including Sashinka, Stockholm, What Walaa Wants, Immaculate Memories and Just a Breath Away.
See some Snaps from the night:
The Cast of Schitt’s Creek
Four-time Canadian Screen Award winner, Catherine O’Hara
Beth Janson, CEO of the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television
Billy Campbell, Cardinal: Blackfly
Karine Vanasse, Cardinal: Blackfly
Stephan James x Shamier Anderson
Cindy Sampson, Private Eyes
Melanie Scrofano, Wynonna Earp
Kim Coates, Bad Blood
The Cast of Kim’s Convenience
Aaron Ashmore, The Killjoys
Sarah Gadon, The Great Darkened Days
Tynomi Banks, Canada’s a Drag
Moira Walley-Beckett, Amybeth McNulty x Miranda de Pencier of Anne With an E
Natasha Negovanlis x Elise Bauman
Rebecca Romijn x Jerry O’Connell
Yannick Bisson, Murdoch Mysteries
Mary Walsh
Tori Anderson x Allan Hawco
Catherine Reitman x Danielle Kind x Philip Sternberg of Workin’ Moms
Wendy Crewson
Jasmin Mozaffari x Caitlin Grabham, Firecrackers
The Kids in the Hall
See our Highlight Reel with our George Kozera (@PartyG):
More on the Gala here.
All photos shot on the Nikon D3400. Video on the Samsung S8+.
(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)
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