#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM FESTIVAL PRESENT CFF 2025 MASTERCLASS AND INDUSTRY SERIES

Canadian Film Fest (CFF), the indie-spirited festival dedicated to celebrating Canadian filmmakers, today announced its CFF 2025 Masterclass and Industry Series. From seasoned professionals to emerging filmmakers, CFF is proud to present 14 programs that bring together a diverse and dynamic community of Canadian filmmakers, producers, executives and creatives who are dedicated to contributing to the domestic film industry.

“CFF Industry is dedicated to championing the advancement of Canadian filmmaking talent. Through industry-relevant panels, conversations, and events, we foster learning, collaboration, and knowledge sharing to empower storytellers, helping them succeed at home and make an impact globally,” said Jen Pogue, Director of Industry, Canadian Film Fest. “More than that, we are building a community, because we are stronger together. At Canadian Film Fest, we are committed to creating spaces where Canadian voices aren’t just heard, but celebrated.”

Industry highlights include a comprehensive masterclass on the essential tasks of pre-production led by award-winning producers lori lozinski (Little Bird, Don’t Even, Sugar Daddy) and Lauren Grant (Riot Girls, The Retreat, Sugar Daddy); You-CAN Pitch, a new program providing emerging Black Canadian filmmakers the opportunity to pitch their projects to a panel of industry experts and receive valuable feedback; The Art of Adaptation – Making Darkest Miriam, co-presented by inkcanada, featuring an in-depth conversation with screenwriter-director Naomi Jaye and author Martha Baillie about the creative journey of adapting Baillie’s The Incident Report into Jaye’s Darkest Miriam; and much more.

See below for the complete industry event offerings or visit canfilmfest.ca.

MASTERCLASS: Fix It in Prep
Sponsored by CMPA
Date: Monday, March 24, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Fix It in Prep is an in-depth 4-hour class designed to guide filmmakers through the essential tasks of pre-production for a greenlit feature film. Focused on streamlining the preparation process, this workshop covers everything that needs to be accomplished from before pre-production to pre-production through the last day of prep prior to commencing principal photography.

The workshop focuses on a week-by-week basis to best prepare for filming to minimize production challenges. Because they will happen, but you can prepare for them! We will be addressing how the script, financing, casting, budgeting, prep & production scheduling, hiring key creatives and crewing up relate to the prep and production timeline. By the end of the class, participants will have a clear roadmap for a successful pre-production process, ensuring that all tasks are completed on time and within budget before cameras roll.

Workshop Leaders:
lori lozinski, Producer, Violator Films, Little Bird, Don’t Even, Sugar Daddy
Lauren Grant, Producer, Clique Pictures, Riot Girls, The Retreat, Sugar Daddy

INDUSTRY SCREENING: Sugar Daddy (2021)
Date: Monday, March 24, 2025
Time: 4:15 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.

After gaining first-hand insights from the film’s producers on successfully navigating feature film production, experience the result of that journey on the big screen with Sugar Daddy—the multi-award-winning film that took home Best Feature at the 2021 Canadian Film Fest.

Directed by Wendy Morgan, written by and starring Kelly McCormack, and produced by Canadian Screen Award-winning producers Lori Lozinski, Lauren Grant, and Kelly McCormack, Sugar Daddy was released in the midst of the pandemic. Now, following the exclusive masterclass, it will have its first theatrical screening.

Witness how a well-executed production plan translates into a powerful, captivating film—showcasing the artistry, dedication, and strategic vision that brought Sugar Daddy to life.

Director: Wendy Morgan

Cast: Kelly McCormack, Colm Feore, Amanda Brugel, Nicholas Campbell, Ishan Davé, Aaron Ashmore, Kaniehtiio Horn, Khadijah Roberts-Abdullah

Synopsis:
Darren is a wickedly talented and unconventional young musician who dreams of making music like nobody has ever heard before. But she’s broke, juggling multiple part-time jobs, and has no time to create. Desperate for cash, she signs up to a sugar daddy paid-dating website and throws herself down a dark rabbit hole that forces her to grow up fast, shaping her music, and how she sees the world.

INDUSTRY SERIES PANELS, ROUNDTABLES AND CHEERS & CHATS:

GLOBAL VOICES, CANADIAN HEART: International Storytelling in Film
Co-Presented by ConneKt Film
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

This panel celebrates the diverse voices of filmmakers who have journeyed from across the globe to make their mark in the Canadian film industry. Explore how their unique perspectives shape the stories we tell, how co-productions bridge cultures, and how international storytelling is redefining Canadian cinema. Join us for an inspiring discussion on collaboration, creativity, and the power of storytelling without borders.

Moderator:
Anya Vagabova, ConneKt Films, Founder/CEO

Panelists:
Yazmeen Kanji, Film Director & Founder of Films With A Cause, One Day
Amir Kahnamouee, Writer, Please After You
Celestina Aleobua, Director/Producer, Tina, When Will You Marry?

SCOUTING T.O.: Finding the Perfect Location
Sponsored by xoTO and DGC Ontario
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location scouting isn’t just about where to film – it’s about how to elevate your entire story. Join industry insiders and location experts as they dive into the art of securing the perfect filming spot, maximizing your budget without sacrificing quality, and navigating local regulations with ease. Discover how to make the most of Toronto’s diverse cityscape while ensuring your creative vision comes to life. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker or working on a large-scale production, this panel will inspire you to unlock the ultimate cinematic canvas for your next project.

Moderator:
Magali Simard, Moderator, Cinespace, Director, Industry & Community Relations

Panelists:
Dason Johnson, Location Scout/Composer, No Fauxs Entertainment LTTD
Richard Hughes, DGC Locations Manager, The Apprentice
& more to be announced

FUNDED AND SEEN: Untapped Support for Canadian Creators
Co-presented by WebSeries Canada
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Finding support for your indie project in Canada requires creativity and financing beyond conventional streams. From regional initiatives to niche grants and broadcast partnerships, there are untapped opportunities to help indie creators bring their stories to audiences. This panel explores how filmmakers can connect with funders and broadcasters who are actively seeking to support fresh voices and compelling narratives.

Join industry experts as they share insider strategies on securing financial backing, navigating broadcaster relationships, and leveraging partnerships to maximize reach. Learn how to stretch your budget, turn financial roadblocks into creative solutions, and position your project for success. Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker or an indie creator looking to break through, discover the pathways to get your film or series funded, produced, and seen.

Moderator:
Katie Uhlmann, Filmmaker & WebSeries Canada President / TO. Webfest

Panelists:
Donna Cagnoli, Bell Fibe TV1, Producer,
Paul Gardner, Bell Fibe TV1, Senior Producer,
Melissa Amer, Telefilm, Regional Feature Film Executive for Ontario
Mitch Geddes, Neshama Entertainment, VP, Development and Current
Suzanne Marshall, Hollywood Suite, Senior Manager of Programming
Mark Shapland, Program Manager and Climate Lens Facilitator, Independent Production Fund

BREAKING IN: The Transition to Directing
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Many of the industry’s most successful directors started in other film roles. But how do you make the transition from working behind the scenes to leading the creative vision of a film? This roundtable brings together filmmakers who have successfully made the leap to directing, sharing their experiences, challenges, and lessons learned. From building confidence and networking to securing funding and gaining industry recognition, learn how to take that next step in your career and bring your vision to the director’s chair.

Moderator:
Shawn Gerrard, Film & Television Director, Jane, Space & Time

Participants:
Nick Butler, Writer/Director/Producer Cloudy Pictures Inc., The Legend of Cloudy Falls
Joanna Tsanis, Writer & Director, The Killgrin, Bloody Bites
Meelad Moaphi, Director & Screenwriter, His Father’s Son
Dan Abramovici, Actor/Filmmaker, Spaceman

BRANDING, HUSTLING, & THRIVING: The Future of Film in Canada
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 4:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.

In an ever-evolving industry, Canadian filmmakers and creatives are carving out their own paths through self-promotion, strategic branding, and financial sustainability. This panel brings together industry professionals from various roles to explore how they navigate the business side of film while staying true to their craft.

From leveraging social media to building a recognizable brand, securing funding, and monetizing creative work, this discussion will offer actionable insights for emerging and established professionals alike. This panel breaks down strategies to not only keep the lights on but to thrive in the Canadian film landscape.

Moderator:
Eric Bizzarri, Future of Films Showcase Co-Founder and CEO

Panelists:
Amira de Vera, Project Four Public Relations Founder/Owner
Christina Ienna, Director of Photography
Shant Joshi, President/Executive Producer, Fae Pictures
Aisha Evelyna, Actor/Filmmaker, Nola

BEHIND THE LIGHTS: The Art & Craft of Cinematography
Sponsored by xoTO
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

This panel explores the intricate craft of the camera team, from the technical mastery of framing, movement, and lighting to the creative collaboration that shapes a film’s visual storytelling. Industry professionals will discuss how cinematographers work hand-in-hand with directors, how to foster strong teamwork on set, and why seamless coordination between camera operators, gaffers, and grips is essential to cinematic success. Whether you’re behind the camera or working alongside it, discover the key to creating compelling, visually stunning films through the power of collaboration.

Moderator:
Warren Sonoda, Filmmaker, DGC National President

Panelists:
Rico Moran, His Father’s Son, I Like Movies
Gayle Ye, Paying for It, Late Bloomer, Bria Mack Gets a Life
& more to be announced

DRESSED TO TELL: Costumes & Makeup as Storytelling Tools
Sponsored by xoTO
Co-presented by CAFTCAD & NABET 700
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 p.m.

Costumes and Makeup are more than just visual elements – they are powerful storytelling tools that shape character, time, and emotion. From period dramas to futuristic worlds, every fabric choice, color palette, and brushstroke adds depth to a story. This panel brings together costume designers, makeup artists, and filmmakers to discuss how these creative elements help build characters, enhance narrative, and bring a director’s vision to life. Discover the craft and symbolism behind these crucial crew roles and learn how these visual elements shape a film’s narrative, build authenticity, and create unforgettable on-screen looks.

Moderator:
Joanna Syrokomla, Costume Designer, CAFTCAD Awards Chair

Panelists:
Kristin Somborac, Costume Designer
Darynel Weekly, Wardrobe Stylist
& more to be announced

BEYOND THE RED CARPET: The Future of Film Promotion
Co-Presented by Canadian Film Centre (CFC)
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Over the past decade how films garner audiences has undergone a seismic shift. Alongside traditional press tours and reviews are TikTok trends, influencer partnerships and AI driven marketing. Simultaneously, streaming platforms have redefined release strategies, and independent films are finding new paths to visibility in an increasingly fragmented media landscape. This panel explores the current state of film promotion, how publicity strategies have adapted, and what the future holds. How do filmmakers cut through the noise? What role do critics and entertainment media still play? And how can Canadian filmmakers maximize impact in this rapidly changing ecosystem? Join us for a deep dive into the evolving promotional playbook for film in the digital age.

Moderated by:
Rakhee Sapra, Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications, CFC

Panelists to be announced

THE ART OF ADAPTATION – Making Darkest Miriam
Co-presented by inkcanada
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Time: 1:40 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Join celebrated screen and television writer Karen Walton in conversation with director Naomi Jaye and author Martha Baillie as they discuss the creative journey of adapting Baillie’s The Incident Report into Jaye’s Darkest Miriam. This panel delves into the artistic choices that shape a literary work’s transformation for the screen – from acquisition and script develop.m.ent to performance and production. Through behind-the-scenes insights, discover how this award-winning film captures the essence of the novel, bringing its world to life in a compelling new cinematic form.

Moderated by:
Karen Walton, Screenwriter, inkcanada Founder

Panelists:
Naomi Jaye, Screenwriter/Director, Darkest Miriam
Martha Baillie, Author, The Incident Report

PITCHING THE UNKNOWN: How to Sell & Craft Your Unscripted Show
Date: Friday, March 28, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

How do you pitch a show when you don’t know exactly how the story will unfold? Whether it’s a documentary feature, reality series, or lifestyle show, selling unscripted content requires a unique approach—one that balances a strong concept with flexibility for real-world developments.

This panel brings together seasoned producers, network executives, and unscripted filmmakers to break down the art of pitching and creating the unknown. Learn how to craft a compelling vision, define your format, showcase access to key subjects, and anticipate potential story arcs—even when the outcome is uncertain.

Panelists:
Billie Mintz, Filmmaker, Gold Bars: Who the F*ck is Uncle Ludwig?
& more to be announced

SPECIAL SHOWCASES

CFF & Firecracker Department Present: The 2025 Comedy Igniter Showcase
Sponsored by Scotiabank
Co-presented by WIFT+
Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

A special presentation showcasing the top selected creative comedies from The Comedy Igniter, a film challenge created by Canadian Film Fest and Firecracker Department, where female and non-binary filmmakers were invited to write, shoot, and deliver a comedic short film within a four week timeline. Each Igniter will present their film and receive feedback and advice for their short comedy film from a live panel of comedy and filmmaking professionals.

Host:
Naomi Snieckus, Firecracker Department

Panelists:
Lauren MacKinlay, Bell Media, Develop.m.ent Executive, Original Programming, Scripted
Sarah Quan, CBC, Executive in Charge of Develop.m.ent, Comedy
Aurora Browne, Actor & Comedian, Baroness Von Sketch Show
Melissa D’Agostino, Actor/Writer/Director/Producer, Highball TV Co-Founder
Samantha MacAdam, Director, Shelved, This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Prom Night

You-CAN Pitch
Sponsored by Rhombus Media, Shaftesbury, and DGC Ontario
Date: Friday, March 28, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Join us for an exciting live pitch competition where five finalists will take the stage to present their film projects to a panel of top industry experts, competing for their chance to win an exclusive prize pack worth $25,000 of in-kind project-building prizes and develop.m.ent cash! Watch as these directors and teams pitch their ideas in real time, receiving insightful feedback from key decision-makers who shape the future of film and television.This high-energy event is both an insider’s look at the pitching process and a showcase of emerging talent. Don’t miss your chance to see the future of Canadian film in the making!

Mentors:
Shawn Gerrard, Director, Jane, Space & Time
Duane Crichton, Writer/Director, Home, Murdoch Mysteries
Cory Bowles, Director, Black Cop, Diggstown

Panel Jury:
RT Thorne, Director, 40 Acres,The Porter
Floyd Cane, Director/Producer, Diggstown, Across the Line
Carolyn Mauricette, Director of Canadian Programming, Fantasia International Film Festival
Hilary Hart, Co-President, Game Theory Films
Alan Bacchus, Business Affairs Consultant/Producer, New Metric Media

About the Canadian Film Fest
The Canadian Film Fest (CFF) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling by exclusively showcasing Canadian films. The festival unites film-loving audiences with diverse selections of features and shorts from across the country. The CFF provides Canadian filmmakers with essential professional development and networking opportunities through its Industry Series and awards.