Canadian media

COVID-19: talent agencies pivot amid production shutdown

Agents say virtual auditions are becoming more commonplace, but to expect a flurry of activity when production ramps up again.

Cooped-up creatives chew the fat in Instagram Live chats

Warren Sonoda has been hosting a series of live chats with the likes of Molly McGlynn and Randall Thorne, with attention turning to CSA nominees next week.

Task force sets out to count dollar impact of COVID-19 crisis

“An assessment of the national impact, as quickly as we can determine it, is critical at this time,” said the coalition, which includes CMF, CMPA, ISO and Telefilm.

Making sense of a crisis: industry assesses ‘epic’ impact of pandemic

An on-the-ground look at the productions affected by the COVID-19 situation, as well as its impact on Canadian networks, development and long-term sector growth.

Wynonna Earp shuts down production in Alberta

Shaftesbury has also postponed shooting on Departure in Toronto, while Ottawa prepares to announce emergency funds for workers not covered by EI.

Hot Sheet

Playback’s 2019 Indie List: survey online now

We want to hear how you allocated your spend in the 2018 calendar year. CLICK HERE to access the Indie List survey directly.

Indie List deadline extended

Producers now have until April 6 to complete Playback‘s annual survey of independent production spending. CLICK HERE to access survey directly.

Facebook launches Watch

With its new platform, now available as a limited test in the U.S., the social media giant has unveiled more details on its original content strategy.

Hot Sheet

Playback’s 5 to Watch: 2017 nominations now open

We’re looking for the hottest up-and-coming talent in the Canadian screen-based industries – and we need you to help us find it.

Cable pioneer Israel ‘Sruki’ Switzer passes away

Regarded as one of Canada’s most knowledgeable cable technology engineers, Switzer died at his home in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 87.

Canada earns 19 noms in Cannes ad fest entertainment, film categories

The Director X-helmed Drake video Hotline Bling is among those shortlisted in the festival’s first-ever Entertainment for Music category.

Hot Sheet

Playback’s 5 to Watch: 2016 nominations now open

We’re looking for the hottest up-and-coming talent in the Canadian screen production industry – and we need you to help us find it. (Free to view.)