CSA ’21: The writer-directors behind the Best Motion Picture noms

Part one sees creatives from films such as Nadia, Butterfly, The Nest and Underground talk about their process and more.

Updated: Chicken Soup for the Soul, Parkside acquire Sonar Entertainment

In a two-pronged deal structure, Toronto’s Parkside has acquired Sonar’s Canadian division, while Sonar’s L.A.-based operation was purchased by NASDAQ-listed Chicken Soup for the Soul Productions.

Stephen Dunn tapped to helm Peacock’s Queer as Folk reboot

The St. John’s, N.L. native is attached to write, direct and executive produce the new iteration of the hit U.K. series.

Giving life and authenticity to the Parker Andersons

Showrunner Anthony Q. Farrell and marblemedia discuss interconnected family sitcoms, The Parker Andersons and Amelia Parker, and the costly changes needed to improve representation on the BYUtv-commissioned series.

Corus Entertainment revenue inches back up to pre-pandemic levels

Continued ad-revenue recovery propelled Corus to $358.9 million in Q2, while its streaming products StackTV and Nick+ climbed to half a million paid subscribers.

Corus Studios signs largest U.S. distribution deal to date

Streamer Hulu has acquired over 200 episodes, picking up shows such as Junior Chef Showdown, Hot Market and more.

Hot Sheet

Hot Sheet: Digital Demand for March 30 to April 5, 2021

The Falcon and The Winter Soldier claims the top spot on the Digital Originals side, while Letterkenny lands at #8.

Canadian Academy, Shaw Rocket Fund introduce new prize

The Shaw Rocket Fund Kids’ Choice Award sees Canadian kids and their parents vote for their favourite Canadian kids television program.

Toon-A-Vision picks up 400 episodes of Spin Master content

The Atlantic Digital Networks-owned specialty network acquired various episodes from eight Spin Master hits, including PAW Patrol and Hatchimals.

Julien Knafo’s Brain Freeze to open Fantasia’s 25th edition

The genre-focused fest takes place in a virtual setting from Aug. 5 to 10, with organizers noting physical events will be included if public health guidelines allow them.

Hot Sheet

Hot Sheet: Top 30 TV programs, March 22 to 28, 2021

MasterChef Canada comes in at #17, while Big Brother Canada makes the list at #21, #22 and #27.

Sim Post acquired by Streamland Media

Updated: The acquisition comes during a period of change for Sim, which recently saw its lighting and grip and studios divisions acquired by MBS.

Deals: Schitt’s Creek, Boat Rocker, Gusto

Licensing and merchandising agency Merchantwise Licensing will represent Schitt’s Creek in Australia and New Zealand, plus more.

Telefilm looks to address Cancon discoverability issue in the U.S.

In partnership with other Canadian organizations, the film funder has launched a platform creating easy access to more than 5,000 domestic films and series.