Industry Day 2
Tuesday, March 25 | Scotiabank Theatre Toronto Club Room
11:45 am - 12:45 pm
CFF Industry Panel:
GLOBAL VOICES, CANADIAN HEART: International Storytelling in Film
Co-Presented by ConneKt Film
This panel celebrates the diverse voices of filmmakers who have journeyed from across the globe to make their mark in the Canadian film industry. Explore how their unique perspectives shape the stories we tell, how co-productions bridge cultures, and how international storytelling is redefining Canadian cinema. Join us for an inspiring discussion on collaboration, creativity, and the power of storytelling without borders.
Moderator:
Anya Vagabova, ConneKt Film, Founder/CEO
Panelists:
Yazmeen Kanji, Film Director & Founder of Films With A Cause, One Day
Amir Kahnamouee, Writer, Please After You
Celestina Aleobua, Director/Producer, Tina, When Will You Marry?
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
CFF Industry Cheers & Chats:
SCOUTING T.O.: Finding the Perfect Location
Sponsored by xoTO and DGC Ontario
Location scouting isn’t just about where to film - it’s about how to elevate your entire story. Join industry insiders and location experts as they dive into the art of securing the perfect filming spot, maximizing your budget without sacrificing quality, and navigating local regulations with ease. Discover how to make the most of Toronto’s diverse cityscape while ensuring your creative vision comes to life. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker or working on a large-scale production, this panel will inspire you to unlock the ultimate cinematic canvas for your next project.
Moderator:
Magali Simard, Moderator, Cinespace, Director, Industry & Community Relations
Panel:
Dason Johnson, Location Scout/Composer, No Fauxs Entertainment LTTD
Richard Hughes, DGC Locations Manager, The Apprentice
2:15 pm - 3:15 pm
CFF Industry Panel:
FUNDED AND SEEN: Untapped Support for Canadian Creators
Co-presented by WebSeries Canada
Support for Canadian indie creators can require creativity and financing beyond conventional streams. From regional initiatives to niche opportunities and broadcast partnerships, there are untapped opportunities to help indie creators bring their stories to audiences. This panel explores how filmmakers can connect with funders and broadcasters who are actively seeking to support fresh voices and compelling narratives.
Join industry experts as they share insider strategies on professional relationship building, leveraging partnerships to maximize reach, positioning your project for success and more. Whether you're an emerging filmmaker or an indie creator looking to break through, discover the pathways to get your film or series funded, produced, and seen.
Moderator:
Katie Uhlmann, Filmmaker & WebSeries Canada President / TO. Webfest
Panelists:
Donna Cagnoli, Bell Fibe TV1, Producer,
Paul Gardner, Bell Fibe TV1, Senior Producer,
Melissa Amer, Telefilm, Regional Feature Film Executive for Ontario
Mitch Geddes, Neshama Entertainment, VP, Development and Current
Suzanne Marshall, Hollywood Suite, Senior Manager of Programming
Mark Shapland, Program Manager and Climate Lens Facilitator, Independent Production Fund
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
CFF Industry Directors Roundtable:
BREAKING IN: The Transition to Directing
Sponsored by DGC Ontario
Many of the industry’s most successful directors started in other film roles. But how do you make the transition from working behind the scenes to leading the creative vision of a film? This roundtable brings together filmmakers who have successfully made the leap to directing, sharing their experiences, challenges, and lessons learned. From building confidence and networking to securing funding and gaining industry recognition, learn how to take that next step in your career and bring your vision to the director’s chair.
Moderator:
Shawn Gerrard, Film & Television Director, Jane, Space & Time
Participants:
Nick Butler, Writer/Director/Producer Cloudy Pictures Inc., The Legacy of Cloudy Falls
Joanna Tsanis, Writer & Director, The Killgrin, Bloody Bites
Meelad Moaphi, Director & Screenwriter, His Father’s Son
Dan Abramovici, Actor/Filmmaker, Spaceman
4:45 pm - 5:45 pm
CFF Industry Panel:
BRANDING, HUSTLING, & THRIVING: The Future of Film in Canada
Co-presented by Future of Film Showcase
In an ever-evolving industry, Canadian filmmakers and creatives are carving out their own paths through self-promotion, strategic branding, and financial sustainability. This panel brings together industry professionals from various roles to explore how they navigate the business side of film while staying true to their craft.
From leveraging social media to building a recognizable brand, securing funding, and monetizing creative work, this discussion will offer actionable insights for emerging and established professionals alike. This panel breaks down strategies to not only keep the lights on but to thrive in the Canadian film landscape.
Moderator:
Eric Bizzarri, Future of Film Showcase Co-Founder and CEO
Panelists:
Amira de Vera, Project Four Public Relations Founder/Owner
Aisha Evelyna, Actor/Filmmaker, Nola
Christina Ienna, Director of Photography
Shant Joshi, President/Executive Producer, Fae Pictures
Yuvi Randhawa, Actor/Filmmaker/Content Creator
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
CFF Industry Cheers & Chats:
BEHIND THE LIGHTS: The Art & Craft of Cinematography
Sponsored by xoTO
This panel explores the intricate craft of the camera team, from the technical mastery of framing, movement, and lighting to the creative collaboration that shapes a film’s visual storytelling. Industry professionals will discuss how cinematographers work hand-in-hand with directors, how to foster strong teamwork on set, and why seamless coordination between camera operators, gaffers, and grips is essential to cinematic success. Whether you're behind the camera or working alongside it, discover the key to creating compelling, visually stunning films through the power of collaboration.
Moderator:
Warren Sonoda, Filmmaker, DGC National President
Panelists:
Rico Moran, Cinematographer, His Father’s Son, I Like Movies
Gayle Ye, Cinematographer, Late Bloomer, Paying For It
And more TBA