Toronto-based film producers Vortex Media and Candour Pictures have signed a first-look deal to finance, distribute and coproduce MOWs and feature films.

The companies previously collaborated on the upcoming Lifetime film Trapped in the Spotlight, starring Monique Coleman (High School Musical). Candour produced the film, while Vortex assisted in the financing and is handling worldwide distribution. It will premiere on Lifetime in the U.S. and Super Channel in Canada on Feb. 15.

Candour is going to camera this summer on its feature film One Day Closer, based on Lorinda Stewart’s memoir about her experience negotiating her daughter’s release from captors in Somalia. The film represents Candour’s IP-driven feature film strategy, according to a news release.

Vortex Media is comprised of three divisions: production arm Vortex Productions, domestic theatrical distributor Vortex Canada and global sales and distribution arm Vortex International. Its features include Sean Garrity’s The End of Sex (2022) and Shudder horror film Anything For Jackson (2020).

“Vortex Media’s vision and expertise make them the perfect strategic partner as we grow and evolve our business,” said Candour co-founder Myles Milne in a statement. “Together, we’re excited to deliver dynamic, top-tier film and TV projects to audiences worldwide.”

Image courtesy of Lifetime