Canadian Film Centre

As we look back at the remarkable stories we’ve told, we’re even more excited for the new chapters ahead. Thank you for standing with us as we turn the page from 2024 to 2025. Together, we’ll continue to champion bold and innovative storytelling for years to come. With best wishes and gratitude for your continued support – cheers to what lies ahead in the new year! Best, maxine bailey and the CFC team P.S. Please note that the CFC’s offices are closed from December 20th to January 6th inclusive, reopening January 7th, 2024.

“Understanding different markets, building relationships internationally, and being open to collaboration with diverse voices are key elements. The more universal your themes, while staying authentic to your unique voice, the better your chances of finding success on a global stage.” CFC alumni Alfons Adetuyi and Amos Adetuyi are no strangers to collaboration. They’re championing it on a global scale, all while working closely with fellow alumni – over 20 collaborators from actors to editors, writers to producers and directors.  Read more in the Alumni Spotlight here: bit.ly/3BaYB5r

Thank you to everyone who attended CFC’s Black Excellence Speaker Series featuring award-winning filmmaker Karen Chapman, presented by TD Canada. Hosted by CFC’s Executive Director Maxine Bailey, the night featured an inspiring discussion on Karen’s career journey, her time as a CFC film program resident, and her debut feature film Village Keeper. We hope you found the conversation as insightful and motivating as we did. Let’s continue to work together to uplift diverse voices in the screen industry and support the next generation of storytellers. Stay tuned for the full recording of CFC Conversations with Karen Chapman coming to our YouTube channel soon at bit.ly/3ZxK8IO. Photography by: Amrita Singh Photography

We are now accepting applications for the 2025 Norman Jewison Film Program! This 5 ½-month professional accelerated film program offers four distinct labs for emerging to mid-level Canadian directors, producers, writers and editors. The Norman Jewison Film Program elevates the careers of talented storytellers, who go on to become Canada’s leading content creators, cast and crew, business executives and industry leaders. If you think this program is for you, click here to learn more and apply by January 30, 2025: bit.ly/40QZDOx

With decades of experience in film and television, CFC alumni Alfons Adetuyi and Amos Adetuyi have become trailblazers in international co-productions and cross-cultural storytelling. Their collective mission is to amplify diverse voices and champion stories from the African diaspora for global audiences. Whether through award-winning dramas, documentaries, or innovative development programs, Alfons and Amos are building a platform for creative exchange. We sat down with the brothers to discuss their career trajectories, their formative experiences at the CFC, and their vision for KIC Group – a transformative joint venture between Canada and South Africa. Read more in the Alumni Spotlight here: https://bit.ly/3BaYB5r

💭 Where does your story begin? What moments define the path you’ve taken, and what barriers did you have to push through to keep going? Every journey carries its own quiet victories, its unseen battles. And yet, when shared, these stories reveal a thread of common struggles—and triumphs—that bind us all. On December 5th, we invite you to a deeply resonant conversation with Karen Chapman, a voice that speaks to both the personal and the universal. Together, we’ll explore how challenges shape us, how creativity becomes a lifeline, and how connection can be the bridge to what’s next. This evening is not just about listening; it’s about being part of a moment—one that brings together our industry together to reflect, to inspire, and to build community. #community #cfccreates

Applications are now open for the 2025 cohort of the Norman Jewison Film Program. This full-time, 5 1/2-month program is for emerging to mid-level Canadian writers, editors, producers and directors. It is designed to improve narrative storytelling and grow your body of work, creative community and career potential. If you have a passion for storytelling, don't miss this opportunity! Learn more and apply here: bit.ly/40QZDOx The deadline to apply is January 30th, 2025.

CFC and TD Canada Present CFC Conversations: Black Excellence Speaker Series In times of uncertainty, art becomes more than just a medium of entertainment—it becomes a powerful space for connection, reflection, and resilience. Today, we’re honored to continue our celebration of Black excellence, with a focus on stories that inspire, uplift, and galvanize. Join us on Thursday, December 5th at 7PM at Hot Docs Cinema as we bring you into the world of Karen Chapman, an award-winning artist and storyteller who embodies the strength, compassion, and versatility of Black excellence. Reserve your free tickets now: lu.ma/rw4f7cnr #CFCConversations #TDReadyCommitment 

Our Executive Director, Maxine Bailey, recently joined The Changemakers panel at the St. John's International Women's Film Festival as a speaker alongside other trailblazing leaders in the industry: Cynthia Lickers-Sage M.S.C. (Indigenous Performing Arts Alliance), Dr. Carol Whiteman (WIDC), and Tonya Williams (Reelworld Screen Institute), with host Naomi Johnson (imagineNATIVE). The insightful and dynamic discussion explored topics from career beginnings to opening doors for future talent. maxine emphasized the importance of women helming institutions and succession planning, and touched on the value of finding joy in everyday moments, both big and small. Read more about the festival here: yhoo.it/4hs4FXD

🌟 Our talented CFC alumni received 13 nominations at the 2024 DGC (Directors Guild of Canada) Awards! Huge congratulations to all the nominees. 👏 Winners will be announced on Monday, October 28th – stay tuned! #DGCawards #CFCcreates