News
Tonight: Toronto! Toon Hall!!!
This is tonight, and if you’re in any way invested in your career in this industry, and you’re nearby, you should come. We’re not the ones organizing it, but we support it whole-heartedly. It’s not a pro-unionization event. A lot of people seem to think it is. It’s not anti-union either, but don’t let that… »
Industry Vets Unveil New Prodco: Headspinner Productions
HEADSPINNER PRODUCTIONS SPINS ONTO the SCENE WITH THREE NEW PROJECTS TORONTO, ON, April 17, 2018– Industry veterans Michelle Melanson and Ken Cuperus have joined creative forces to launch HEADSPINNER PRODUCTIONS, a full-service development and production company based in Toronto, Canada. Emmy nominated and multi award winning creators and producers, Melanson (Stella and Sam, Yup Yups)… »
Studio Day at Algonquin College: April 25th, 2018
Algonquin College School of Animation Studio Day! It says by invitation only, but they sent it to me to post up, so here you go!! Algonquin’s got a great program, full of amazing people, I’m going to try to get to Ottawa for this myself. If you’re doing any hiring, it’s somewhere you should be…. »
Kidscreen Magazine Appoints New Editor: Mike Drach
Kidscreen is a publication familiar to most of us in the kids media industry. They run a big conference every year in Miami, and they’re pretty much the go-to publication for the business. And now, they have a new editor! Mike Drach is a well known face in the animation industry, and a fixture of… »
Guru EVP Mary Bredin Exits Studio
A surprising announcement this week from Guru Studio in Toronto: Mary Bredin, who has held the title of EVP of Content and Strategy for the past 10 plus years, will be leaving the company at the end of April. Mary is one half of the leadership at Guru, next to studio founder Frank Falcone, and… »
jobby: Senior Previs Artist (3D), DHX Media, Vancouver
Senior Previs Artist, 3D – Mega Man Want to make awesome cartoons with amazingly talented teams in a cool new studio? DHX Media – Vancouver is looking for an experienced Layout Artist (Senior Previs Artist) to join our team! As a Senior Previs Artist on Mega Man you will get to interpret storyboards and realize… »
GLAS Animation Launches Grant Program
This is some very cool shit. GLAS Animation (Global Animation Syndicate) has taken a simple, but fairly unprecedented step, and has launched the GLAS Animation Grant Program, currently consisting of two separate grants of $2500 each. It’s limited to American applicants, but I wanted to mention it here on the site because I think it’s… »
Upcoming Events: TOON HALL, Toronto, April 25th
This is coming up soon, and the timing is pretty great. The intention behind it is pure and honest, just a safe place to discuss the realities of the business, the hurdles we face, the issues we’d like to see addressed. No recordings, no streaming, just show up and share. Here’s the event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/179160406209694/… »
DHX Media Restructures Upper Management
The Toronto Star is reporting that DHX Media, one of a small handful of Canada’s media giants, is restructuring after a disappointing fiscal year: https://www.thestar.com/business/2018/02/26/dhx-media-shakes-up-top-management-amid-strategic-review.html Co-Founder Michael Donovan is stepping back into the Chief Executive position as Dana Landry departs. Rumours of a sale have been around since October of last year. We’ll report on… »
Tonight! Animatic TO Presents: Mike Geiger and Matt Fernandes
Want to hear about how Matt Fernandez and Mike Geiger are developing shows at Toronto’s Industrial Brothers? Well, thanks to Barry Sanders and Animatic TO, you can! Tonight, at 7:30, at 410 Richmond St, Toronto. Should be a good one! Here’s the event… »
Call for Entries: Digital Animators of Nova Scotia Outstanding Achievement Awards
Call for entries for the DANS Award for Outstanding Achievement in Animation! Deadline: March 23rd. This category allows for commercial submissions, music videos, short films, YouTube content or any animated scene in a show or film produced in Nova Scotia. Based on overall artistic achievement in the field of digital animation, this award will shine… »
Canadian Screen Awards 2018
The CSA’s wrapped up last night, after a series of ceremonies over the last week. Here’s the animation rundown. The Breadwinner picked up 4 awards out of a possible 6: – Anita Doron for Adapted Screenplay – Qais Essar & Joshua Hill for Original Song – Jeff Danna & Mychael Danna for Original Score -Nelson… »
from the internets: Mysticons Comic Book, Seneca Celebrates Alumni, Daughter of Bells Next for Breadwinner Producers
Dark Horse publishing Nelvana’s Mysticons. Cool and progressive move for Nelvana. Good call. Comics!! Seneca celebrates Oscar-winning alumni for Shape of Water and Coco. Congrats! Aircraft Pictures (The Breadwinner) announces next animated feature: Daughter of Bells… »
2018 Oscars: Coco and Dear Basketball Win Animation Categories
That’s the news. Pixar’s Coco took the feature animation award, and Glen Keane and Kobe Bryant’s Dear Basket ball won for short animation. I’m sorry that the Breadwinner didn’t win. Coco is a terrific movie. And when Pixar makes a good movie, this category is theirs. I personally feel that The Breadwinner is a superior… »
Submissions Open for TAIS Animation Showcase
The Toronto Animated Image Society (TAIS) has just announced its call for submissions for the 2018 TAIS Animation Showcase. The deadline is May 28th, 2018. Here’s the link to the event page. From the event page: Each year, the TAIS Animation Showcase presents the best local, national and international independent animation talent. With films from… »
from the internets: LA Times On Point Analysis of Bravest Warriors Via Nelvana
I’ve been throwing around a lot of big talk lately about creative risk-taking in Canada and how we inevitably play it safe in pretty much everything we make. It’s tough, but it’s a fact we have to face, and one that we seem to understand really well in the trenches. We hear about how people… »
Press Release: Reboot is Back. Netflix Premiere of Reimagined Series March 30th
NELVANA AND WOW! UNLIMITED MEDIA’S MAINFRAME STUDIOS REIMAGINE 90S CULT CLASSIC WITH NEW SERIES REBOOT: THE GUARDIAN CODE Series Set to Debut Worldwide March 30 Toronto, CANADA – Corus Entertainment’s Nelvana is excited to announce that the hybrid live-action/CG animated hybrid ReBoot: The Guardian Code will premiere as a Netflix original series worldwide excluding Canada on March… »
from the internets: Frederator Interview with Mathieu Hains
Frederator sure is taking an interest in Canadian creators lately. First, it was Elise Simard, now it’s Mat Hains! Mat’s an Ottawa-based animator/board artist/creator who made a big splash in the first season of Startoon with his second place finisher, the Angry Little Cupcake. I like Mat. And I like this interview. Check it… »
45th Annual Annie Awards!!!
It was a big weekend for animation. The 45th annual Annie Awards happened Saturday night in LA, and the animation world turned up. They live streamed the whole affair, and it’s available for viewing on Youtube. The Annies are the big awards for mainstream animation. They’re a black tie affair, put on by ASIFA-Hollywood, and… »
from the internets: Frederator Talks to Animation Director Elise Simard
Interesting to see Montreal animation director Elise Simard getting some attention from the gang at Frederator. There’s a terrific interview with Elise up on the Frederator tumblr, here’s the link: http://frederator-studios.frederator.com/tagged/Canadian_animation Go read… »
from the internets: the Secret to Paw Patrol’s Success, Origin of Cuphead, Canadian Films, blahblahblah
The Globe and Mail looks into the massive success of Spinmaster’s unavoidable hit series, Paw Patrol: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/television/whats-paw-patrols-secret-how-it-captivated-children-and-conquered-theworld/article37417532/ The origins of Cuphead, and StudioMDHR, via Polygon: https://www.polygon.com/features/2017/12/7/16745144/cuphead-artists-illustrate-five-year-development-cycle More Globe and Mail from December. This one’s a discussion of what needs to happen to make Canadian films successful. This conversation is eternal, but I’m always glad we’re… »
Super Science Friends Video Game Kickstarter!!!!! Only 2 Days To Go!!!!
The gang from Tinman are expanding the Super Science Friends experience with a new game, and they’re looking for your support to get it up and running. We’ve never hidden our admiration for Tinman, or the Super Science Friends show they make, so we’re always happy to give them a plug. These guys are a… »
Christmas Cartoons: A Super Science Friends Christmas, Tinman Creative, 2016
Yesterday we posted a blast from the distance past of 1990, today we’re only going back a year. But time travel is nothing new to the Super Science Friends! From the amazing gang at Toronto’s Tinman Creative, Super Science Friends is a truly independent animated series, and the Christmas episode is a personal favourite. If… »
Call for Submissions: Friss Hús Budapest International Short Film Festival (deadline January 10, 2018)
Submit your animation short films! The Friss Hús Budapest International Short Film Festival is Hungary’s biggest short film festival, taking place every year in Budapest. The deadline for submission is 10 January, and the festival will be held between 3-8 April. Winners are awarded with up to 8000 Euros. Categories: live-action fiction, animation, documentary, LGBTQ,… »
press release: NFB PAYS TRIBUTE TO FILM AND ANIMATION LEGEND GRANT MUNRO
December 11, 2017 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB) The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) mourns the passing of Canadian film and animation legend Grant Munro, O.C., who died in Montreal on December 9 at the age of 94. Born in Winnipeg on April 25, 1923, Munro attended the Musgrove School… »
TONIGHT!!!! TORONTO!!!!! Animatic TO presents: The War Stories on Christmas!!!!
Last year was a blast. See? And we’re doing it again! All the behind the scenes, crazy shit that’s usually not fit to tell. Here’s the details. For one festive night Toronto’s animation community comes together to tell their best “War Stories” about life in the trenches of the industry. There will be drinks available… »
TONIGHT: TAAFI presents Creator Driven Shows: A Cartoon Discussion, LIVESTREAM!!!!!!
UPDATE: Our pals at Canadian Animation Blog will be livestreaming, for anyone who can’t make it. You’ll find the live stream here: https://www.youtube.com/user/canadiananimation/live Creator Driven Shows: A Cartoon Discussion SOLD OUT! Rush line seating available at the door. Thursday, December 7th, 2017 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM, Corus Quay Over the past few years there have been many… »
press release: Youth Media Alliance Announces New Board Members and Andra Sheffer Scholarship Winner
Youth Media Alliance welcomes new board of directors and unveils the YMA Andra Sheffer Scholarship winner Youth Media Alliance (YMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its board of directors: Jonathan Finkelstein (President and Executive Producer, Apartment 11 Productions), Marney Malabar (Director, KidsTV, TVO) Jennifer Twiner-McCarron (President, Atomic Cartoons). They… »
Robin Joseph’s Fox and the Whale shortlisted for the Oscars
Toronto-based animator Robin Joseph‘s self financed short film, Fox and the Whale, is on the short list for Oscar contention. CTV talks about it here. The film is among ten that are vying for 5 nomination spots in the Best Animated Short category. it’s the only Canadian film in the mix this year. Here’s the… »
events: Todd & The Book of Pure Evil: The End of The End, Toronto Screening, December 3rd, 2017
Todd & The Book of Pure Evil: The End of The End, Toronto Screening Cast and Crew in Attendance Sunday, December 3rd, 2017 7:00 PM–9:00 PM, Royal Cinema Continuing where the critically acclaimed cult TV series left off, Todd & The Book of Pure Evil: The End of The End returns to Crowley Heights to find… »
from the internets: Add John Lasseter to the “terrible men” list.
Alright, we’re going to share this news too. Not with the obvious glee that Cartoon Brew is indulging in, but it’s real, and it’s big. Pixar’s chief creative officer, John Lasseter, has taken a six month “sabbatical” from the company amid numerous allegations of inappropriate behaviour. Rarely have I seen my social media feeds react… »
events: Leadership Skills Workshop, Vancouver, November 29th
Coming up in Vancouver. Drawn Together Vancouver is hosting a Leadership Skills workshop On Wednesday November 29th. You can get tickets here…. »
from the internets: Women in Animation Combating Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
This is important. We haven’t commented here about the recent surge in overdue “outings” of shitty men in the entertainment world and beyond. Honestly, it’s been overwhelming and finding a voice in it is intimidating. But there are good, strong people stepping up and creating change on behalf of women everywhere. Deadline’s got an article… »
from the internets: Former CBC Kids Exec Lands at Titan1, Women in Animation launches Vancouver Chapter, Animation Art Collection At Risk in Sault St Marie
Kim Wilson, who ran CBC Kids for a decade, has signed on at Titan1 Studios to help develop their various graphic novel properties into other media. Consulting Producer Christina Rotsaert is attached in a non exclusive capacity. Titan1 bills itself as an incubator, but is largely unknown in kids media circles. They also seem to… »
showcase: Sublo and Tangy Mustard Halloween Episode!
Aaron Long’s been firing out episodes of Sublo and Tangy Mustard. I love em. He’s awesome. Here’s the Halloween episode, enjoy! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/aaronlong Website:… »
events: Cuphead Talk at TAIS, Toronto, November 24th
Cuphead is a huge hit, and a win for creator driven content everywhere. The Toronto Animated Image Society is hosting a few members of the crew for a behind the scenes chat. Here’s the info. Friday, November 24th OCAD University, 100 McCaul – Rm 230 7:00-9:00pm (doors 6:45pm) $5 at the door for general public… »
TONIGHT! TORONTO! Animatic TO Presents Christian Potenza!!!!
Tonight’s the latest in the Animatic TO series of talks, and this one’s going to be fun. It’s voice actor Christian Potenza! Voice actor Christian Potenza of Switchboard Sessions enlightens us on the possibilities of voicing your own animated creations, from incubation to execution. We will also discuss the process of how to find the… »
press release: 9 Story Secures Multiple Sales for Animated Series 3 AMIGONAUTS
9 Story Media Group is pleased to announce that it has secured multiple international sales for the animated comedy 3 AMIGONAUTS (52 x 11’), aimed at children 6 to 11 years old. New licenses include Sony Pictures Television Networks (UK, Italy and Sub Saharan Africa), Canal+ (French-speaking Europe and Africa), RTP (Portugal), Disney (CEE), DKids… »
press release: YMA Conference, November 15 to 17, Toronto
Children, Youth & Media conference: A look at the program, November 15 to 17 Once again this fall, Youth Media Alliance (YMA) presents a major event for youth screen-based media professionals: the Children, Youth & Media (CYM) conference, now in its seventh edition. Scheduled from November 15 to 17 in Toronto, the conference addresses the… »
STARTOON WINNER: Pepper & Monterey, by Ryan MacNeil!!!!
Yesterday, a winner was picked in this year’s Startoon creative development outreach program. Vancouver-based animator Ryan MacNeil’s submission, Pepper and Monterey beat out 82 other contenders for a 25 thousand dollar development deal. Ryan put a ton of work into the various challenges, and responded incredibly well to the feedback from the judges. He also… »
STARTOON FINALE: Help pick the $25 000.00 Winner!!
The latest iteration of the Shaw Rocket Fund’s development outreach initiative, STARTOON, comes to its conclusion on Monday, October 2nd, when they’ll be airing their live finale on Youtube at 1pm EST and picking the winner of a 25 thousand dollar development deal. Startoon is my day job. I run it. Full disclosure. I think… »
from the internets: Cuphead in Rolling Stone
Cuphead. Seriously, how long have we been waiting for this? Since 2014, when the trailer blew up online. You can finally get your hands on the game tomorrow. And it’s from Canadian developers Studio MDHR. The team is scattered all over Canada and the “virtual studio” model seems to have worked for them. Rolling Stone… »
from the internets: Joan Lambur Exits Breakthrough, Forms Prodco Backed by Sinking Ship
Some interesting news from Kidscreen and other sources. Longtime Breakthrough Entertainment Exec, Joan Lambur, has left the company along with ex-Breakthrough VP of family entertainment Suzanne Wilson. Joan has launched Lambur Productions, with backing from Sinking Ship Entertainment. Sinking Ship has taken a minority stake in the new company, and they’ll be based out of… »
press release: ATOMIC CARTOONS BRINGS THE LAST KIDS ON EARTH TO TELEVISION
September 25th, 2017 / VANCOUVER – Thunderbird Entertainment announced today that its animation studio Atomic Cartoons has optioned the rights to bring Max Brallier’s New York Times bestselling book series THE LAST KIDS ON EARTH to television. Max will write the animated series and Executive Produce alongside Atomic’s Jennifer McCarron and Matthew Berkowitz. Atomic is… »
press release: NFB at OIAF 2017
A leader in auteur animation for over 75 years, the NFB has 12 new short films showcased at the 2017 Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF), including eight in official competition: Matthew Rankin’s THE TESLA WORLD LIGHT; Chintis Lundgren’s Manivald; Eva Cvijanovic’s Hedgehog’s Home; Christopher Auchter’s The Mountain of SGaana; Malcolm Sutherland’s Simulated Life; and three… »
The Breadwinner.
The Breadwinner had its world premiere yesterday at TIFF and the reviews are coming in. Oscar talk is already happening. This is an important film, for a variety of reasons. It’s the latest from Cartoon Saloon, the studio behind Secret of the Kells and Song of the Sea. Both those movies were nominated for Academy… »
Vancouver Short Film Festival Call For Submissions
Calling All Student Filmmakers: Submit to the Vancouver Short Film Festival A new school year has arrived, and with that comes the opportunity to get creative. As classes resume, the Vancouver Short Film Festival (VSFF) is inviting BC film students to submit their work before the October 13th deadline. There are no length restrictions (but… »
events: Cartoon Forum, Quebec City, October 24 to 26
Cartoon Forum is coming up soon, and there’s a deadline this weekend for registration to their one on one meetings. Here’s the link. Worry free one-to-one meetings At Cartoon Connection there are NO unending email exchanges to organise your meetings. Everything is done online and the only email you will receive is the one with… »
Tomorrow Night! Toronto! Amblin’ Along Art Show at the Gladstone!!!!
Every year or two, Tammy Semen finds time in her very busy schedule to put together an amazing themed art show at the Gladstone Hotel in the west end of downtown Toronto. She always gets a great turnout of inspiring talent, and, in turn, a great turnout for the show. This year looks to be… »
CROWDFUNDING: A World Without End, by Pasquale La Montagna
Toronto Animator Pasquale La Montagna is trying to raise a few bucks to produce a cartoon. You know how this works. A World Without End – Episode One, A Beginning A Mad man. A King. The pursuit of truth. An evil intention. And a world which never seems to end! It looks great, and it’s… »
Startoon Cartoon Podcast: Emmy Nominated Voice Actor ERIC BAUZA
The latest Startoon Cartoon Podcast features the voice behind Marvin the Martian, the new Baby Fozzy, and the second man to voice Stimpy: Eric Bauza. Eric’s a real sport, and we get into some great behind the scenes of his time with Spumco working on Ripping Friends and the Ren and Stimpy Adult Cartoon Party…. »
from the internets: REEL FX Opening Montreal Office
CultureMap Dallas is reporting that Reel FX Animation Studios, the company behind Jorge Guitierrez’ feature film, the Book of Life, is opening a satellite office in Montreal. Here’s the link. Steve O’Brien, CEO at Reel FX confirmed the report, and cited a need to diversify and tap into different talent pools. The article simply mentions… »
Crowdfunding: Winston Rowntree’s Peoplewatching, Season 2
Produced for Cracked.com and CBC digital, Winston Rowntree’s Peoplewatching is back for a second season. They’re expanding their scope and looking for some extra budget, so they’re raising money on indiegogo! Check it out over here:… »
TAIS 2017 Artist in Residence Call for Proposals
Toronto Animated Image Society (TAIS) announces its CALL FOR PROPOSALS for Year Four of its Artist in Residence program This program supports the production of new animated work by artists through a combination of funding and in-kind resources. After the success of the first three years of TAIS’ artists in residence, anticipation is high for… »
from the internets: NFB’s Michael Fukushima Answers Questions, and the Breadwinner is Coming to TIFF
Over on AWN, OIAF Creative Director Chris Robinson asks NFB Animation Executive Producer Michael Fukushima a handful of questions. Michael was good enough to answer them. And Animation Magazine, among other outlets, is reporting that Cartoon Saloon’s latest feature film, the Breadwinner, will be premiering at TIFF. The Breadwinner is directed by Nora Twomey, and… »
jobby: Storyboard Revisionist (3D), DHX Media, Vancouver
Want to make awesome cartoons with amazingly talented teams in a cool new studio? DHX Media – Vancouver is looking for an experienced Storyboard Revisionist to join our team! DHX Studios –Vancouver is looking for extremely talented, fun, inspired Storyboard Revisionists to join the team on one of our exciting 3D productions! As a Storyboard… »
events: 11th annual TAIS Animated Showcase, Toronto, July 29th
This is happening. Official Trailer – 11th Annual TAIS Animation Showcase from TAIS on Vimeo. 11th Annual TAIS Animation Showcase Saturday July 29th – 7:00PM Geary Lane – 360 Geary Ave. Toronto $10 advance / $12 door / $8 door TAIS members Advance tickets – HERE www.tais.ca Bringing the Best Independent Canadian and International Animation to… »
press release: Puppetry Workshop for Animators, Toronto
TAAFI OPENS DOORS FOR PUPPETRY TRAINING FOR ANIMATORS TAAFI and Skyship Entertainment announce exclusive workshop with leading puppetry professionals TORONTO, ON – The Toronto Animation Arts Festival International (TAAFI) announced a partnership with Skyship Entertainment to host an exclusive workshop called PUPPETRY FOR ANIMATORS: ANIMATING THE INANIMATE. Led by industry veterans Trish Leeper (The… »
Volunteer at OIAF 2017!
The 2017 edition of the Ottawa International Animation Festival is coming up fast, and they’ve just put out their open call for volunteers. It’s an amazing experience for anyone looking to get a foot in the door in the world of animation. You’ll meet tons of great people, get access to the festival itself, and… »
press release: Brown Bag Films announces production of animated holiday special ANGELA’S CHRISTMAS
Based on the popular children’s story from Pulitzer Prize winning author FRANK McCOURT. Oscar Nominated RUTH NEGGA and Lucy O’Connell set to star. Oscar nominated Brown Bag Films, a subsidiary of 9 Story Media Group, is pleased to announce that it is in production on the animated holiday special, ANGELA’S CHRISTMAS. The half hour CG… »
press release: NFB announces three-year plan to redefine its relationship with Indigenous peoples
Key commitments include: 4 percent of NFB workforce to identify as Indigenous by 2025; Indigenous-led production to represent a minimum of 15 percent of overall production spending; and the creation of protocols/guidelines for production and distribution and use of archives The National Film Board of Canada has announced a three-year plan outlining a series… »
press release: Wow Unlimited Media and Bell Media Teaming for Kids and Youth Channel
Wow Unlimited Media and Bell Media Announce Strategic Partnership in Kids and Youth Entertainment TORONTO, ON and VANCOUVER, BC–(Marketwired – June 07, 2017) – Wow Unlimited Media Inc. (“Wow“) (TSX VENTURE: WOW.A) (TSX VENTURE: WOW.B) and Bell Media (“Bell Media”) are pleased to announce that they have entered into a term sheet (the “Term Sheet“)… »
press release: Youth Media Alliance 2017 Awards of Excellence – Winners Announced
Winners of the 2017 Awards of Excellence Montréal, May 31, 2017 – This year’s Youth Media Alliance gala unfolded before an enthusiastic audience on May 31 at the CBC Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto. The evening was hosted by the vibrant Studio K trio of Tony Kim, Janaye Upshaw and Victor Verbitsky under this year’s… »
Ottawa International Animation Festival 2017: Deadline for Submissions is TOMORROW!
That’s it. You have til tomorrow to submit your film to OIAF 2017. Here’s the… »
from the internets: DHX Buys Peanuts and Strawberry Shortcake for 345 Million Dollars.
This is all over the internet today. Canadian media giant, DHX Media just made a deal to buy Iconix Brand Group for $345 000 000.00 (I’m assuming USD). Iconix owns 80% of Peanuts, and 100% of Strawberry Shortcake. Here’s Deadline Hollywood on it: http://deadline.com/2017/05/peanuts-strawberry-shortcake-acquired-dhx-media-1202088595/ Here’s Variety with the same info: http://variety.com/2017/tv/global/dhx-media-acquires-peanuts-in-345-million-purchase-of-iconix-1202422001/ CBC with more of… »
Startoon Cartoon Podcast: Brent Butt talking about comics, cartoons, and Corner Gas Animated
Startoon’s latest Cartoon Podcast is up, and this week it’s an interview with comedian Brent Butt. We get to hear a lot about Brent’s relationship with animation. He started out drawing as a kid, spent 4 days at Sheridan College in the animation program before deciding it wasn’t for him, and ended up back in… »
events: 2017 Animation Job Fair, Toronto, April 29
TOMORROW!!!!!! TAAFI did one of these a couple years ago, and it was a madhouse. This time around they’ve teamed up with CASO and it looks like it’s going to be another doozy! So if you’re looking for work, just want to connect with people, or even just look around at what the other studios… »
EVENTS: Tonight! Toronto! Animatic TO presents, Conjuring a Creator Driven Show, with Startoon Winner Andy Greiling
TONIGHT!!! Startoon winner Andy Greiling is in Toronto for a one-night only event. He’ll be talking about his experience at the center of creator driven show development and his experiences as the winner of the rist ever Startoon talent show. Here’s the link to the event page. Doors open at 7, and it’s at the… »
press release: Matthew Rankin’s THE TESLA WORLD LIGHT (NFB) selected to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival’s International Critics’ Week
So this is pretty cool. The Tesla World Light, Matthew Rankin, provided by the National Film Board of Canada Here’s the press release. Matthew Rankin’s THE TESLA WORLD LIGHT (NFB) selected to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival’s International Critics’ Week Matthew Rankin’s animated filmTHE TESLA WORLD LIGHT, produced at the National Film Board of Canada… »
Startoon Cartoon Podcast, featuring Brett Jubinville, Stephanie Kaliner and Brandon Lane
The second episode of the new Startoon Cartoon Podcast is online, and, as warned, I’m sharing it here. This week’s episode is an almost 2 hour long conversation with 3 amazingly talented and pretty darn candid human beings. Tinman Creative Studio‘s co-founder and creator of Super Science Friends, Brett Jubinville Writer, comedian, and creator of… »
STARTOON is BACK! Submissions are open!
Alright. It’s time to talk about Startoon. I always struggle a bit when it comes to cross-promotion. Startoon is my day job these days, so I get a little wobbly about promoting it here. But then I have to step back and tell myself to stop being a dummy and share what we’re doing. Because… »
events: VANIMATIC! April 18th, Grahaeme Cowie Talking About the Impotents, and how they ran a SUCESSFULL KICKSTARTER!
If I were in Vancouver on April 18th, I’d be here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1892151544392891/ Last year, Grahaeme Cowie and his partner Jeff Cooper set out to get their idea for an adult comedy animated series funded via Kickstarter. They pulled it off. They also made a funny cartoon. I supported it. I got a t-shirt. All this… »
from the internets: APOLLO GAUNTLET ON ADULT SWIM!!!!!!
YEAH! Adult Swim Greenlights New Animated Series From ‘Robot Chicken’ Producers & Mondo Canadian Myles Langois’s awesome show, Apollo Gauntlet, which I love, is going to be on Adult Swim. Good fit. Congrats to Myles. Keep being awesome…. »
OIAF 2017 Poster!
I think it’s lovely. Here’s the info provided by Kelly Neal via Facebook: The 2017 poster is here! The stunning new poster was created by Montreal-based animator Elise Simard, a film director who has contributed visual signatures and handmade special effects for documentary features and animated shorts. For the past 10 years she has been… »
press release:BOAT ROCKER/INDUSTRIAL BROTHERS ANNOUNCE NEW SERIES MASTER TOY PARTNERSHIP WITH FISHER-PRICE
New Original Series Kingdom Force solidifies early-stage partnership with Fisher-Price as part of an innovative strategy for funding multiplatform IP TORONTO – March 21, 2017 – Boat Rocker and Industrial Brothers today announced a master toy partnership with Fisher Price as part of a unique development strategy for their ambitious new original series, Kingdom Force…. »
press release: Youth Media Alliance Announces Nominees for English Language Awards of Excellence
Montreal, March 21, 2017 – Youth Media Alliance (YMA) is pleased to announce the television series as well as digital and interactive productions in the running for an Awards of Excellence. The winners will be revealed at the awards gala to be held on May 31, at the CBC Glenn-Gould Studio, in Toronto. Based on… »
press release: peopleWatching on Cracked.com
TORONTO, Feb 22, 2017 – For the second week in a row, Cracked.com, the popular humour and satire website viewed by millions of people each week has aired the latest episode of peopleWatching, an anthology-styled animated webseries based on author Winston Rowntree’s hit web comic Subnormality. People Watching deals with the lives of various 20… »
Press Release: Cinesite Studios acquires Vancouver animation studio Nitrogen
Cinesite Studios is pleased to announce that it has acquired the full service animation facility Nitrogen Studios Canada Inc., based in Vancouver. The studio employs 70 creative and production staff and is known for animating many episodes of the iconic children’s show Thomas and Friends, and more recently Seth Rogen’s ground breaking R-rated Sausage Party…. »
OIAF 2017 Submissions OPEN!!
ALL-OUT CALL-OUT: OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL ANIMATION FESTIVAL OPENS SUBMISSIONS FOR 2017 OTTAWA, ON, CANADA (February 21, 2017) – The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF), North America’s leading animation film festival, is now accepting entries for competition in 2017! Entries are due May 26, and there is no entry fee. From September 20-24, Ottawa will become the… »
2017 Animated Oscar Winners
Zootopia and Piper. Both good films, both very safe, mainstream picks. No huge suprises. Piper’s got a Canadian director, Alan Barillaro, Sheridan grad from Chippawa, Ontario. Here’s the Toronto Star coverage: https://www.thestar.com/entertainment/movies/2017/02/26/ontario-animator-alan-barillaro-wins-best-animated-short-oscar-for-piper.html Congrats to the winners, and big congrats to all the nominees. We had a really strong group of Canadians representing this year. And… »
from the internets: CBC Kids Makes It Official, Marie McCann In Top Job.
Kidscreen is reporting that acting Director Marie McCann is taking over the position permanently. Marie’s a great pick, she’s been with CBC for years, off and on, and really has a sense for the brand, including how it’s moving forward. Here’s the article. Congrats to… »
press release:9 Story Media Group Secures a Raft of Digital Sales for Animated Shorts Series SWEET TWEETS
I like this press release. Sweet Tweets is a series of shorts produced in BC at Yeti Farm. They produced it themselves, with Jon Izen providing the creative chops. And now they’re selling it. Congrats! -mike Toronto, Canada – February 6, 2017 – 9 Story Media Group is pleased to announce that it has secured… »
Len Cochrane Passes Away at 71
The Hollywood Reporter is sharing the news that legendary Canadian kids broadcast executive, Len Cochrane, has passed away at the age of 71. Len was a pioneer of the kids broadcast sector, founding Teletoon and presiding over Family Channel from 1990 to 2001. He retired in 2014. cartt.ca has an obituary that touches on how… »
press release: Theodore Ushev Receives Oscar Nomination for Blind Vaysha
NFB receives 74th Academy Award nomination Theodore Ushev’s Blind Vaysha is headed to the Oscars with a nomination for Best Animated Short Film January 24, 2017 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB) Theodore Ushev’s multi-award-winning Blind Vaysha (NFB) has been honoured with an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Short Film. It’s… »
from the internets: Dierdre Brennan Leaves CORUS For Sprout
This is a tough one. It happened last week and was shared around a lot, but we should post it too, for good measure. Deirdre Brennan joined CORUS less than a year ago, so her departure is somewhat troubling. Here’s a link to Kidscreen’s sharing of the press release. Deirdre is a world class exec,… »
Youth Media Alliance 2017 English-Language Awards of Excellence: Jury Members Wanted!
2017 English-Language Awards of Excellence: Jury Members Wanted! Youth Media Alliance (YMA) is looking for youth media professional to sit on the nomination jury for its 2017 English-Language Awards of Excellence. The involvement of the industry would be invaluable to us, and it’s also essential that our industry take part in the selection process. Nomination… »
jobby: 3D Modeler (Location), Guru Studio, Toronto
Guru studio’s dedicated team is passionate about bringing inspired character-driven stories to screens around the world. Our award winning, and internationally renowned Toronto animated entertainment company, is looking for a 3D Modeler for a premier international animated TV series! This position is responsible for making clean, production ready assets. This role reports to the Asset… »
events: ANIMATIC TO presents, The War Stories on Christmas
Next week there’s an extra special Animatic TO happening. Barry Sanders has invited a group of industry veterans to share their “war stories”. It’s a tricky one, we’ve all got stories to tell of jobs that maybe left an emotional mark or two, but we also would like to continue to work in this industry…. »
TONIGHT: Animatic TO presents Mike Valiquette, Deconstructing Development and the Startoon Experience
Yep. Animatic TO is back! And tonight’s presentation is gonna be me, talking about the development process here in Canada and how Startoon, the online development initiative I ran this pas year, fits into it. For those who weren’t constantly bombarded by my personal updates about Startoon, here’s a little breakdown on what it was… »
press release: Guru Studio’s Big Blue in Development at Kids’ CBC
GURU STUDIO DIVES INTO THE BIG BLUE WITH CBC Toronto, ON., Oct 12, 2016 – Guru Studio’s latest project Big Blue is now in development with Kids’ CBC. This fresh original show follows sibling underwater adventurers Lettie and Lemo and their quirky submarine crew as they explore and protect a vast ocean covered planet from… »
press release: 9Story Makes a Deal For Mercer Mayer’s Little Critter
9 Story Media Group to produce new LITTLE CRITTER® animated series based on Mercer Mayer’s beloved book series Toronto, Canada –November 1, 2016 – 9 Story Media Group is pleased to announce that it has reached an agreement with Little Critter, LLC to produce a new animated series based on Mercer Mayer’s beloved Little Critter… »
press release: New Content Focus At Nelvana
We got this press release a little late, but I thought it would be important to share it. Honestly, I’ve never been very excited about what happens at Nelvana, but this news is interesting. I firmly believe that the real change in our industry towards creator driven production will only occur in a place that… »
press release: Indie sci-fi feature Nova Seed to open GIRAF12 festival of independent animation
Quickdraw Animation Society announces features and visiting artist for Calgary animation festival’s 12th year The Quickdraw Animation Society’s annual GIRAF animation festival (a.k.a. the Giant Incandescent Resonating Animation Festival) will kick off its 12th year on Thursday, November 24 with a screening of NOVA SEED, a sci-fi adventure story animated single-handedly by Canadian artist… »
from the internets: VICE on NOVA SEED
I finally saw Nova Seed at OIAF about a month ago. I missed it at TAAFI back in the spring, and have had a post in the drafts folder of the site half-written ever since. It’s amazing. The movie, not the post. The post starts by saying that Nova Seed is an important movie. And… »
Spider-Man, Spider-Man, Does Whatever a Spider Can! Spidey Redux, courtesy of a whole bunch of Halifax animators.
So cool to see this making the rounds. Gizmodo picked it up. Polygon posted about it. Something called the Awesomer shared it. And so did GeekTyrant. The Nerdist was all over it. Stan Lee even shared it! (or at least, whoever runs Stan’s Facebook page did) You get the picture. A bunch of animators did… »
from the internets: BRON Studios Expands to London Ontario, Director Kris Pearn at the Helm
CTV News out of London, Ontario shared a short story featuring Feature Director Kris Pearn, who’s currently working with BC-based BRON Studios on their upcoming feature release, the Willoughbys. Pearn’s a graduate of Sheridan’s animation program, an accomplished story artist with credits like Arthur Christmas, Hotel Transylvania, and the upcoming Han Solo movie for Lucasfilm…. »
OIAF 2016 in Review, by Noam Sussman
This year was the Ottawa International Animation Festival’s 40th anniversary, which meant that I had to find a way to get up to Ottawa from Toronto and watch some beautiful works of animation done by some kooky filmmakers. As always, it’s not easy to catch every single screening since there are so many events and… »
press release: Counterfeit Cat Goes Global On Disney XD and Disney Channel
Toronto, Canada – September 19, 2016 – Tricon Kids & Family’s award-winning original animated comedy series Counterfeit Cat (52×11′ and 11×2′ shorts) pounces onto Disney XD and Disney Channel in multiple territories including France, South East Asia, Japan, Australia/New Zealand, and Latin America. Counterfeit Cat received its world premiere in May on Disney XD UK… »
Startoon Live Judging Session Today at 2pmEST
I’ve mentioned this before on here, and I’m often sheepish when it comes to sharing stuff I’m working on, but today is our live judging session for the 3rd Startoon Challenge! We’re going live via Facebook, and will be announcing the three finalists that are moving forward into the finals, and who will be competing… »
Canadian Animaton Blog
- Studio Pascal Blais becomes TONIC DNA - A rebrand to mark 35 years of creativity and innovationJust in time for its 35th anniversary, internationally acclaimed and Academy Award winning Studio Pascal Blais has reinvented its brand with a new name and image that represents the essence of the organization and what sets it apart: its creative animators and directors and their dynamic, innovative spirit. As of today, the animation production studio will […]