The Whistler Film Festival Society (WFF) has appointed Blue Ice Docs co-0wner and CEO Robin Smith as its director of film programming.

Smith takes over the position from Paul Gratton, who has served the festival since 2012 and is moving into the honorary role of programmer emeritus, according to a news release.

Smith brings nearly 30 years of experience to WFF, including as CEO/co-owner at Toronto-based distributor and equity-funding company Blue Ice. He also programmed the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema for its first decade of operation, and recently came on board as an advisor to both the Vancouver International Film Festival and Vortex Media.

He also served as executive producer on titles such as the Oscar-nominated Abacus: Small Enough to Jail, the Emmy Award-winning Solitary and Advocate, and others. Smith has also managed high-profile releases such as Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Cave of Forgotten Dream and Kedi.

Angela Heck, WFF executive director, said in a statement that Smith’s “addition to the team is both exciting and emblematic of WFF’s commitment to Canadian filmmakers, audiences and international award-winning programming.”

Heck also paid tribute to Gratton saying, “with his curation, guidance, and deep commitment to the Canadian film industry, Paul has helped elevate the festival and turn it into the highly respected institution and cinematic champion it has become.”

The 2024 edition of WFF will take place from Dec. 4 to 8.

Photo courtesy of Whistler Film Festival Society