Toronto’s NewNew Films has signed American directors Frank Samuel and the team of Amy Hill and Chris Reiss for Canadian representation.

Samuel began by directing spec spots while working in the art department on film shoots for seven years. Two of his spec spots, one for Teva sandals and another for MTV, were picked up and aired. Noted for his use of subtle humor and storytelling, Samuel debuted an M&M’s spot titled ‘Hotel’ at this year’s Superbowl.

Drawing together their unique talents and shared artistic sensibility, the team of Hill and Reiss has developed an impressive reel, including an award-winning spot for Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey. They have also done public service announcements for the Academy of Dermatology and Human Right’s Campaign.

Everyone’s a hero now

Toronto’s Hero Films and Vancouver’s Gearhead have reached an agreement to represent each other’s rosters in their respective regions. Hero will represent Gearhead’s lineup of directors in Toronto, Montreal and Eastern Canada, while Gearhead will be the voice for Hero in Western Canada.

This deal provides both companies with valuable infrastructure and production resources in Vancouver and Toronto and an opportunity to strengthen their foothold in the Canadian market by having a bicoastal presence, the companies said in a joint statement.

Some of the directors signed with Hero are Linzi Knight, Sandra Enns-Arnell and Phoenix-based Art Haynie. Gearhead’s roster includes Andre Marcell, Paul Papenak and Jack Barrett.

D Squared ready to laugh it up

Director Jef Renfroe has joined the roster of upstart Toronto commercial production house D Squared Picture Co.

Renfroe’s unique style of comedic directing has enabled him to develop an impressive reel that includes spots for Labatts, YTV, General Mills and Proctor & Gamble. Considered multitalented and versatile, Renfroe has directed a number of short films, including the award-winning Noah. He has also directed various music videos, garnering several MuchMusic Video Awards nominations and a TVOntario Telefest Award for best music video.

A ‘mainguy’ plus one

Pure Films, based in Toronto, has announced the signing of directors Mark Mainguy and Sean Anicic to its roster.

Mainguy comes to Pure from Radke Films, where he spent the last five years. His impressive reel includes work for FILA, Chrysler and Toyota. He comes from a stills background where he specialized in editorial fashion.

Sean Anicic is an up-and-coming director who has been involved in production and casting. Prior to joining Pure, he spent some time with Toronto’s Powerhouse Casting, where he developed an eye for talent, which is apparent in his work. He has a promising reel that includes a couple of specs, one for Gillette Satin Care and one for Labatt Blue.