Telefilm Canada today announced the publication of its Strategic Orientation Framework, which will serve as a roadmap for the review of all its funding programs, to be carried out through to 2028.

Informed by Telefilm’s key commitments and by consultations with the Canadian and international audiovisual industry, this framework aims to foster greater cohesion across programs and a more audience-centred approach. It puts forward a structured model supported by precise, targeted outcomes, in order to maximize the impact of Telefilm’s investments for the benefit of Canadian creators and companies.

The primary innovation of this review is the introduction of clear, measurable performance indicators, the results of which will be made public on a periodic basis. This approach is intended to strengthen transparency and support data-based decision-making.

“This framework is the result of more than a year of close collaboration with the industry, supported by our action plans and concrete data on the performance of our programs,” said Francesca Accinelli, Chief Program Officer, Telefilm Canada. “It gives us the foundation to invest more strategically, by supporting projects at every stage and focusing on the success of creators and Canadian companies, regardless of their ambitions. This strategic framework offers a clear direction for supporting a strong Canadian and Indigenous cinema: a cinema capable of reaching, engaging, and building lasting connections with audiences here at home and around the world.”

This framework is part of Telefilm’s 2024–2027 triennial strategic plan and represents a key milestone in ensuring that programs remain relevant, flexible, and aligned with the ambitions of the Canadian audiovisual industry and with the evolving expectations of audiences.

All information related to the Strategic Orientation Framework — including key objectives, targeted outcomes and measurable indicators — is available HERE.

About Telefilm Canada

Founded in 1967, Telefilm Canada is a Crown corporation that invests in the development, production, promotion and distribution of the Canadian and Indigenous audiovisual industry. As the largest investor in Canadian cinema, Telefilm supports the economic power and cultural impact of the audiovisual sector in collaboration with industry players. Additionally, Telefilm provides recommendations to the Department of Canadian Heritage regarding the certification of treaty-based audiovisual co-productions, and administers programs of the Canada Media Fund.

From the co-creator of Ozark, crime thriller series M.I.A. debuts Thursday, May 7 at 9 p.m. ET on Showcase and exclusively streaming on STACKTV. Restless in the Florida Keys, Etta Tiger Jonze (Shannon Gisela, Strip Law) dreams of a life in Miami’s glittering, sub-tropical kingdom. However, when her family’s drug-running business shatters in tragedy, Etta embarks on a dangerous journey through Miami’s neon-lit underbelly that will define who she is and what she’s ultimately capable of.

The series also stars Cary Elwes ( Saw), Danay Garcia ( Fear the Walking Dead), Brittany Adebumola ( The Other Black Girl), Dylan Jackson ( Floating Carousel), Alberto Guerra ( Griselda), Maurice Compte ( Narcos), Gerardo Celasco ( Swimming with Sharks), and Marta Milans ( Shazam!).

Bill Dubuque serves as creator, executive producer and writer, Karen Campbell serves as showrunner, executive producer, and writer. Alethea Jones also executive produces and serves as director for Episodes 101 and 102. Directors also include Gwyneth Horder-Payton (episode 103), Marizee Almas (episodes 104 and 105), Ben Semanoff (episodes 106 and 107) and John Dahl (episodes 108 and 109). MRC is the studio and the series is distributed internationally by Paramount Global Content Distribution.

M.I.A. along with Showcase’s other hit series can be streamed via STACKTV, available on Amazon Prime Video, Bell Fibe TV app, Rogers Ignite TV and Ignite Streaming. Showcase is also available through all major TV distributors, including: Shaw, Shaw Direct, Rogers, Bell, Videotron, Telus, Cogeco, Eastlink and SaskTel.

PRACTICAL MAGIC 2 is in theatres this September. Today, we get a new Teaser!

About the Film

Starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, Practical Magic 2 returns to a world steeped in moonlit mischief and powerful ancestral magic, as the Owens sisters must confront the dark curse that threatens to unravel their family once and for all in a must-see cinematic event of fun, magic and mayhem.

Krispy Kreme Canada is serving up a nostalgic dessert comeback Canadians have been waiting for.

Launching April 21, 2026 for a limited run through May 3, 2026 Krispy Kreme unveils the Milk Bar Collection—a playful, indulgent lineup inspired by the fan-favourite creations of Milk Bar. Canadians can now relive the flavours of Milk Bar with this limited-time drop—no travel required.

The collection features three craveable doughnuts, each reimagining a signature Milk Bar dessert:

• Milk Bar Birthday Cake: A celebration in every bite, topped with birthday cake frosting, rainbow sprinkles, and cake crumbles
• Milk Bar Pie: Inspired by the classic, with a gooey buttery pie filling, caramel icing, and oat-cookie crumbles
• Milk Bar Compost Cookie: A sweet-and-salty favourite featuring cookie icing, crunchy mix-ins, and a rich caramel drizzle

Blending Krispy Kreme’s melt-in-your-mouth doughnuts with Milk Bar’s bold, nostalgic flavours, this collection delivers a limited-time experience that’s equal parts comfort and creativity.

Before the Milk Bar Collection arrives, don’t miss the limited-time Strawberry Glazed Doughnut, the perfect bite of spring. Available Thursday, April 16 to Sunday, April 19, this seasonal favourite is the ideal way to kick off the long weekend—while it lasts. 

Milk Bar may have left Canada—but the flavours are back (for now)!

Filipino players remain loyal fans of GameZone table games, even as the broader online casino industry continues to introduce new features and innovations. While slots and arcade-style games attract casual fun seekers, many players gravitate toward table games that emphasize strategy, decision-making, and social competition. These titles offer depth and a more satisfying experience, maintaining their position among the most successful gaming categories on digital platforms.

This year has seen a surge in Filipino players exploring GameZone. These platforms provide a variety of gaming options, combining beloved Filipino card games with high-quality, casino-themed table games. From competitive challenges rooted in local traditions to fast and engaging gameplay, these selections draw players seeking both nostalgia and innovation.

Why Players Prefer GameZone Table Games

Table games such as Tongits, Pusoy, and Lucky 9 appeal to players who desire more than random chance. Compared to luck-based formats like slots, table games drive engagement by requiring observation, timing, and strategic thinking. These mechanics challenge players and provide the opportunity to improve their skills over time.

Highlights of table games include:

• Interactive elements that add excitement.
• Skill-based gameplay for players looking to master techniques.
• Social competition where users can challenge real opponents.
• Familiarity with Pinoy card game traditions, adding cultural significance.
• Value through long-term learning and progression.

Players who enjoy challenges and improving their abilities often spend more time immersed in table games than simplistic, repetitive formats.

Top GameZone Table Game Choices

Tongits: A Cultural Icon

Tongits consistently ranks as one of the most popular GameZone titles. As a traditional Pinoy card game, it maintains widespread appeal due to its deep cultural roots and strategic gameplay. Its familiarity, combined with the convenience of online play, ensures it remains a top choice for Filipino players.

What makes Tongits stand out:

• Rules are easy to learn, especially for those familiar with the game offline.
• The perfect blend of luck and strategy keeps matches engaging.
• Competitive rounds against real players create exciting challenges.
• Medium-length games make it accessible for players with limited time.
• Simple mechanics ensure quick learning, while advanced strategies provide depth.

Through platforms such as GameZone, Tongits has seamlessly transitioned from traditional offline settings like social gatherings to digital formats that offer flexibility and convenience.

Pusoy: A Game of Strategy and Precision

Pusoy captures the interest of players seeking strategic depth and competitive play. This card game requires participants to carefully build strong combinations while considering the tactical choices of their opponents.

Reasons for Pusoy’s popularity:

• Heavy focus on strategic gameplay, rewarding thoughtful planning.
• Wins feel satisfying due to the skill required to succeed.
• A higher skill ceiling makes it ideal for experienced card players.
• Less reliance on randomness gives players greater control.

In Pusoy, players can exercise creativity and judgment, offering a meaningful challenge for individuals looking to showcase their competitive edge.

Lucky 9: Quick and Beginner-Friendly

Lucky 9 thrives among players who enjoy straightforward games with fast outcomes. Its simple mechanics, combined with its appealing pace, make it accessible to new players or those preferring shorter game sessions.

Key features of Lucky 9:

• Quick rounds ensure efficient entertainment during breaks or busy schedules.
• Easy-to-follow rules make it an excellent entry point for beginners.
• A low learning curve simplifies gameplay without diminishing enjoyment.
• Relaxing matches make it a viable alternative to more competitive options.

Lucky 9’s fast-paced nature makes it a great counterpart to titles like Tongits and Pusoy, adding variety to a well-rounded rotation of table games.

Baccarat-Inspired Games: Casino Classics

Players seeking a traditional casino experience are drawn to baccarat-style table games. These titles mirror the simplicity and elegance of games found in brick-and-mortar casinos, offering familiarity and quick results.

Why baccarat-style games attract players:

• Simplicity ensures easy comprehension and swift gameplay.
• Outcomes are delivered quickly, catering to players seeking instant gratification.
• Minimal complexity maintains focus while delivering engaging experiences.

These games excel at providing the authentic atmosphere of a casino setting within the digital convenience of GameZone.

Seasonal Titles and Casual Card Challenges

GameZone platforms frequently update their lobbies, introducing casual card games and seasonal titles to keep content fresh. These lighter table games allow players to explore alternative formats while maintaining broader engagement over time.

Why seasonal content matters:

• Provides variety, preventing boredom from repeated gameplay.
• Encourages experimentation with new mechanics and themes.
• Helps players discover new favorites while enhancing the gaming experience.

By rotating seasonal content and casual challenges, GameZone creates an evolving landscape that sustains player interest year-round.

Choosing the Perfect GameZone Table Game

Matching the right table game with one’s preferences is essential for enjoyment and success. Players benefit more when their choices align with their schedules and playstyles.

Tongits suits those interested in balanced gameplay combining cultural familiarity, luck, and strategy.
Pusoy attracts competitive players who desire deep strategy and tactical challenges.
Lucky 9 provides quick entertainment for beginners or casual players seeking relaxed gameplay.
Baccarat-inspired games appeal to fans of traditional casino themes with easy-to-learn mechanics.

Customizing choices based on goals and available time ensures optimal engagement and satisfaction.

Tips for Enhanced Table Game Experiences

Players can improve their GameZone table game sessions with simple habits that increase enjoyment and reduce frustration.

1. Focus on mastering one game at a time to build familiarity and confidence.
2. Use timers or time limits to avoid overextending gaming sessions.
3. Observe opponent patterns during rounds to refine strategies.
4. Maintain emotional stability after both wins and losses to prevent mistakes.
5. Play for progress and entertainment rather than chasing outcomes.

Implementing these techniques creates an enriched gaming experience rooted in balance and skill refinement.

Exploring GameZone Table Games

GameZone’s offerings include classic Filipino games and modern casino-inspired titles that cater to a variety of gaming preferences. The platform’s accessibility and diverse selection have made Tongits, Pusoy, Lucky 9, and baccarat-style games staples for casual players and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

By prioritizing personal preferences, setting boundaries, and focusing on fun, players can maximize their gaming experiences. GameZone table games strike a harmonious chord between cultural nostalgia and modern innovation, ensuring their lasting popularity among Filipino players.

After being serviced early to select DJs and clubs – sending demand into overdrive, Madonna releases “I Feel So Free” from her forthcoming album Confessions II. Listen HERE.

Produced by Madonna and Stuart Price, the song is the first taste of new music ahead of the upcoming lead single. Immerse yourself by experiencing the accompanying trancelike visualizer:

It was announced earlier this week Madonna’s eagerly anticipated new album Confessions II is set for release on July 3rd via Warner Records. The new album is the continuation of the iconic counterpart Confessions on a Dance Floor. Fans can pre-order the album + the ultimate curation of expansive vinyl, CDs and cassette offerings HERE.

In case you missed it, Sabrina Carpenter brought Madonna out at Coachella last night for a surprise that will have fans in recovery for a long time!

THE SUPER MARIO GALAXY MOVIE stays on-top a third straight week with $30 million. We don’t often see this anymore – incredible! This takes it to $350 million domestically for Universal Pictures.

In second is PROJECT HAIL MARY with a stellar $19.4 million in its fifth weekend for Amazon MGM Studios. This takes it to $284 million in North America.

Debuting in third is Lee Cronin‘s THE MUMMY with $13 million from 3,304 theatres. This gets 54% on the Tomatometer.

THE DRAMA is fourth with $4.7 million for A24/VVS Films, a total $37.7 million over three weekends. The Film was made for $28 million.

YOU, ME & TUSCANY rounds things out with $3.5 million, a total $14 million grossed up to its second weekend.

Beep Beep! We get a new teaser poster for Coyote vs. Acme. Coming to theatres August 28, 2026 via VVS Films.

SOMBR has announced his YOU ARE THE REASON Tour, and today we also get a new single, “Potential”!

NORTH AMERICAN YOU ARE THE REASON ARENA TOUR DATES
July 22 – Mexico City, MX – Pepsi Center **
July 26 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheater **
July 27 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheater ** – NEW DATE
Sep 29 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena +#
Oct 1 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena +§
Oct 2 – Portland, OR – Moda Center +§
Oct 6 – Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center +‡
Oct 7 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center +‡
Oct 9 – Anaheim, CA – Honda Center +‡
Oct 10 – Los Angeles, CA – The Kia Forum +‡
Oct 13 – San Diego, CA – Pechanga Arena +‡
Oct 14 – Glendale, AZ – Desert Diamond Arena +‡
Oct 16 – Oklahoma City, OK – Paycom Center +*
Oct 17 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center +*
Oct 18 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center +*
Oct 20 – Austin, TX – Moody Center +*
Oct 22 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena +*
Oct 24 – Sunrise, FL – Amerant Bank Arena +*
Oct 25 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center +*
Oct 27 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center +*
Oct 28 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena+*
Oct 30 – St. Louis, MO – Enterprise Center =*
Oct 31 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center =*
Nov 1 – Minneapolis, MN – Target Center =*
Nov 3 – Milwaukee, WI – Fiserv Forum =*
Nov 4 – Chicago, IL – United Center =*
Nov 6 – Indianapolis, IN – Gainbridge Fieldhouse =^
Nov 7 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena =^
Nov 8 – Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena =^
Nov 10 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena =^
Nov 12 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena =^
Nov 13 – Cleveland, OH – Rocket Arena =^
Nov 14 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center =^
Nov 16 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena =^
Nov 18 – Boston, MA – TD Garden =^
Nov 19 – Philadelphia, PA – Xfinity Mobile Arena =^
Nov 21 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center =^
Nov 23 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden =^
Nov 24 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden =^ – NEW DATE

SUPPORT

2026 FESTIVAL DATES
April 18—Coachella (Weekend Two)—Indio, CA
May 24—BottleRock Napa Valley—Napa, CA
July 30 – Lollapalooza Festival – Chicago, IL
August 1 – Osheaga Festival – Montreal, QC
August 11—Sziget Festival—Budapest, Hungary
August 13 – Syd For Solen – Denmark, Copenhagen
August 14—Øyafestivalen—Oslo, Norway
August 15 – Way Out West – Gothenburg, Sweden
August 16 – Flow – Helsinki, Finland
August 20 – Openair Gampel – Gampel, Switzerland
August 22 – Lowlands – Biddingghuizen, Netherlands
August 23 – Pukkelpop – Hasselt – Belgium
August 26 – Rock En Seine – Paris, France
August 28 – Electric Picnic – Stradbally, Ireland
August 29—Reading Festival—Reading, UK
August 30 – Leeds Festival – Leeds, UK
September 1 – Superbloom – Munich, Germany
September 11 – Fono Festival – Quebec City, QC
September 12—Sommo Festival—New Glasgow, NS

Following a standout Coachella debut on Saturday night, and 39-date arena tour announce this week, multiple award-winning, GRAMMY®-nominated artist SOMBR unleashes another stellar single and surefire hit into the world. Written entirely by the 20-year-old superstar, “Potential” was teased live during his Coachella set last weekend, and arrives with a cinematic official music video directed by Gus Black.

Watch the official music video:

Earlier this week, SOMBR announced his fall arena headline YOU ARE THE REASON TOUR for North America. The 39-date run will start in Mexico City, at the Pepsi Center and will see the global phenom perform with his band on legendary stages such as Madison Square Garden in his hometown of New York City on November 23 and 24, with the second date added due to incredible fan demand. Support from Interpol, The Last Dinner Party, Tom Odell, Dove Cameron, Balu Brigada, King Princess, The Hellp, Hannah Jadagu was also announced. General on-sale begins April 17 at 10AM local time at https://www.sombrmusic.com/#tour.

Last weekend, SOMBR was the undeniable stand-out act to perform at Coachella. With Variety hailing him the “new prototype for the modern rock star,” Los Angeles Times noting his performance “drew so many fans that they were stretching to the outer edges of the field.” While Rolling Stone applauded his set for delivering “undeniable rock star energy.” A surprise appearance from Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins to perform the band’s hit classic “1979” drew widespread praise, with Rolling Stone noting “if he needed a rock legend’s cosign, this was a perfect one to get,” and Los Angeles Times observing their performance as “one of the moments that simultaneously proved that rock never died and it’s on the rise.” SOMBR will be returning to the desert next Saturday for another night in the desert with surprises in store.
“Potential” follows “Homewrecker” which marked SOMBR’s fifth entry on the Billboard Global 200, fourth on the Hot 100, and his highest first-week debut to date, showing no signs of slowing down in what has already been a jaw-dropping 2026, SOMBR entered the year with a Best New Artist GRAMMY® nomination and an electrifying performance on the telecast, following a breakout year that included a show-stopping performance and “Best Alternative” win at the MTV VMAs, as well as appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and Saturday Night Live.

SOMBR has dominated global airwaves and charts since his 2025 breakthrough smash “Back to Friends,” which earned his first Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 hit (charting for 52 weeks), reached No. 1 on Spotify’s Global and U.S. charts, ruled Alternative Radio at No. 1 for five weeks, and reached number 1 on U.S. Pop Radio more than a year after its release.
That summer, he released his debut studio album I Barely Know Her, featuring the record-shattering hit alongside standout fan and critical favorites “Undressed” and “12 to 12,” each of which reached the Top 20 on both the Billboard Global 200 and the Hot 100.

Born in New York City, Shane Boose—who first found his voice in a makeshift Lower East Side bedroom studio—is the sole songwriter and co-producer of his entire catalog. Blending indie rock with arena-sized pop, SOMBR captures the intensity of young love with a smoldering vulnerability and emotional depth that resonates worldwide. His rapid ascent is reflected in sold-out global headline tours.

More exciting news to come very soon.

Earlier today at its annual CinemaCon presentation in Las Vegas, 20th Century Studios revealed the first trailer and poster for visionary director Ridley Scott’s “The Dog Stars,” a riveting, epic thriller set in a world where survival is instinct, but humanity is a choice. Scott tells the story of Hig, a young pilot who, together with a military survivalist, Bangley, has carved out an efficient but isolated homestead in a brutal post-apocalyptic world until a mysterious radio transmission spurs Hig to venture into the unknown in search of the hope and humanity he still believes exists.

Based on Peter Heller’s captivating bestseller, “The Dog Stars” features a critically acclaimed ensemble, including Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin, Margaret Qualley, Guy Pearce, Benedict Wong and Allison Janney. The film is written by Mark L. Smith and produced by Ridley Scott, Michael Pruss, Mark L. Smith, and Cliff Roberts.

“The Dog Stars” debuts exclusively in theatres August 28.