CTV drama Sullivan’s Crossing generated more than $47.5 million in economic activity in Nova Scotia and Ontario, according to a report from the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA).

The report tracked the economic impact of production on season one, which was filmed from June to October 2022 in several locations in Nova Scotia, with additional filming in Ottawa. The report was prepared by accounting firm MNP for the CMPA.

The series created 385 full-time equivalent jobs and contributed $33.83 million to the national GDP, said the report. Additionally, it estimated that every dollar provided in federal tax credits generated $15.44 in economic activity in Nova Scotia and $17.80 in Ontario. For provincial tax credits and incentives, that ratio came to $6.21 per incentive dollar in Nova Scotia and $7.49 per tax credit dollar in Ontario.

Season one of Sullivan’s Crossing was produced by Mike Volpe and Mark Gingras, with Reel World Management’s Roma Roth and Christopher. E. Perry serving as executive producers. It was supported by the Canada Media Fund, the Bell Fund and the Screen Nova Scotia Content Creator Fund, in additional to federal and provincial tax credits and incentives. Fremantle handles international distribution.

Magnetosphere to debut in Hamilton

Family comedy Magnetosphere will have its world premiere at the Hamilton Film Festival on Oct. 20.

Written and directed by New York-based Nicola Rose, the film was shot in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. this summer. It stars Shayelin Martin, Patrick McKenna, Colin Mochrie, Debra McGrath, Steven He and Tara Strong. The film is a family comedy focusing on the coming-of-age of a 13-year-old who discovers she has synesthesia.

Magnetosphere is produced by Rebeka Herron of Rusty Halo Productions, Drew Martin of Pine Pathways Productions, Tierney Boorboor of Gothik House and Mark A. Baum of Baum18 Media. Baum and Ian Schulz serve as executive producers.

WIFF receives four-year investment from Windsor Tourism

The Windsor International Film Festival (WIFF) has formed a partnership with the City of Windsor and Tourism Windsor Essex to the tune of a four-year, $200,000 investment from 2023 to 2026.

In a statement, Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens said the city has supported WIFF with a more sustainable infrastructure, including establishing its home base at the Capitol Theatre and create initiatives such as WIFF Under the Stars and WIFF Alley.

“WIFF is a key piece of the puzzle for our Strengthen The Core revitalization plan and our goals of creating a vibrant district with unique experiences and engagement opportunities that attract businesses, residents and visitors to downtown Windsor,” he added.

This announcement was coupled with the schedule for the 20th edition of the fest, taking place from Oct. 24 to Nov. 3. WIFF is celebrating the anniversary year with a slate of 213 feature films from 42 countries and 327 screenings. Sophie Deraspe’s Shepherds will open the festival, with Edward Berger’s Conclave closing.

Earlier this month, WIFF announced the 10 nominees for the WIFF Prize in Canadian Film, which celebrates outstanding achievement in Canadian cinema. The award comes with a $25,000 prize for the film’s director.

Firecracker Department expands West

The podcast and creative collective Firecracker Department has expanded with new chapters in Vancouver and Calgary.

Originating as a podcast, the Firecracker Department has grown into a platform to support women and non-binary creatives, including events, awards and mentorship initiatives. 

The Calgary chapter is led by comedian Susan Serrao, who will work alongside festival producer Cory Mack and Meghan Westelmajer. The Vancouver chapter is led by writer Liesl Lafferty, working with producer Madison Falco, performer Jody Quine and actor Ellie Harvie.

To mark the expansion, the organization has established new Blaze Awards in the regions. Actor and comedian Veena Sood is the recipient of the Blaze Award in Vancouver, while Serrao will receive the Blaze Award in Calgary.

Firecracker Department plans to establish more chapters in the future, including Halifax and Winnipeg in Canada, and New York, Los Angeles and the U.K., internationally, according to a news release.

By Kelly Townsend and Nicholas Sokic

Image courtesy of Bell Media