Mayerson on Animation
- Jack Kirby, Charlie Chaplin and Louis ArmstrongAugust 28 is the 100th birthday of comics great Jack Kirby, born Jacob Kurtzberg, whose work remains in print 23 years after his death and whose creations are more widely known than ever due to their adaptations in movies and TV. In the days before World War II, the United States experienced an explosion of […]
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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… »
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… »
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… »
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… »
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… »
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… »
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… »
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… »
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… »
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: 9 Story Media Group appoints ALIX WISEMAN to Vice President, Business Development & Acquisitions
Toronto, Canada – August 30, 2016 – 9 Story Media Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Alix Wiseman to the newly created position of Vice President, Business Development & Acquisitions. Reporting to Chief Strategy Officer Natalie Osborne, Wiseman will be responsible for leading distribution and acquisitions efforts in EMEA with a focus on… »
press release: Corus Entertainment Appoints Athena Georgaklis New Head of Development for Nelvana
Toronto, Canada – Corus Entertainment announced today the appointment of Athena Georgaklis to the role of Head of Development for Nelvana. Georgaklis, a highly respected animation executive, will lead the acquisition of rights and the development of all original content for Nelvana, working with the studio’s producers, creators, and talent around the world. Georgaklis assumes her… »
Good News Department: BOAT ROCKER BUYS JAM FILLED ENTERTAINMENT!!!! WHAT!?!?!
Could not happen to nicer people. Congrats to Jamie and Phil and Kyle, and congrats to Boat Rocker for having the smarts to see how great a studio they’ve built. BOAT ROCKER MEDIA ACQUIRES JAM FILLED ENTERTAINMENT Animation Studio Behind Multiple Hit US and Canadian Shows Strengthens Media Company’s Animation & Family Content Capabilities August… »
Press Release: Okanagan International Animation Festival to Launch in 2017
International animation festival set for October 2017 in BC’s spectacular Okanagan The Okanagan International Festival of Animation is on! Kelowna, B.C. The Okanagan International Festival of Animation (OkIFA) is an annual five-day animation and digital media festival, market and conference set to launch from October 2 6, 2017, in Kelowna, British Columbia. This… »
press release: VIFF announces $20,000 award for Call-To-Action Films re: Refugee Crisis
$20,000 Prize to be Awarded in Refugee Crisis Film Competition Frank Giustra, Founder of the Radcliffe Foundation, and the Vancouver International Film Festival, urge film-makers to participate Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, Sarah McLachlan, Louise Arbour, Craig Kielburger, Ivan Fecan, Atom Egoyan among others lend their voices to the crisis as part of the competitions jury… »
press release: Thunderbird (Atomic Cartoons) Showcases All Star Musical Lineup for Beatles-Inspired Beat Bugs
Thunderbird’s Netflix Original Beat Bugs Brings Reimagined Beatles Songs to a New Generation Vancouver (July 27, 2016) – Thunderbird, Grace: A Storytelling Company and Beyond Screen Productions are pleased to bring the highly anticipated animated children’s series Beat Bugs to Netflix on August 3. Inspired by the songs of The Beatles, the show will feature musical… »
OIAF 2016 Official Selection
This year’s Ottawa International Animation Festival has announced both their feature and short film official selections. Here are the press releases: FEATURE COMPETITION This is a ground breaking year for Canada at OIAF with three feature films competing for the grand prize. Jean-François Laguionie, who won at OIAF 1978 with his film La Traversée de… »
Startoon Character Development Initiative Launches in Canada
For those readers who don’t know me, when I’m not maintaining this site I also work as an animation producer and director in Toronto. Occasionally what I do in that identity overlaps with what I do here, and I try my best to be really transparent about it. This is one of those times. I’m… »
press release: BOAT ROCKER MEDIA ACQUIRES RADICAL SHEEP
This is kinda huge. First they bring Industrial Brothers under their umbrella, now this. Congrats to John and Michelle and congrats to the team at Boatrocker for knowing a good thing when they see it. BOAT ROCKER MEDIA ACQUIRES RADICAL SHEEP Boat Rocker Studios original kids and family content division consolidated under Radical Sheep March… »
The Big News: Toonz Software Goes Open Source
This is everywhere, and it seems to be pretty great. Toonz software, the animation software used by only the greatest animation studio of all time, Studio Ghibli, will be made available for free via an open source version beginning on March 26th. The version is called TOONZ Studio Ghibli Version, and it will include features… »
CBC Short Film Faceoff Deadline This Week
Attention Filmmakers! Short Film Face Off is back for another season on CBC TV! We are now looking for the best short films from every region of the country to take part in the program. For complete guidelines, criteria and submission form go to http://www.cbc.ca/shortfilmfaceoff/ Quick Overall Criteria: -Up to 12 minutes in length (excluding… »
press release: Acclaimed NFB Film Maker Colin Low Passes, 1926-2016
COLIN LOW DIES AT THE AGE OF 89, The National Film Board and Canada lose a true pioneer of cinema February 25, 2016 – Montreal, Quebec – National Film Board of Canada Canada has lost a giant of cinema with the passing of Colin Low, who died in Montreal on February 24 at the age… »
press release: Radical Sheep and Teletoon Team up For SPRINKLE and the SWEET SUGAR MAGICS
Toronto, Canada – February 4, 2016 – Corus Entertainment’s TELETOON and RADICAL SHEEP PRODUCTIONS have entered into a development deal for animated comedy SPRINKLE and the SWEET SUGAR MAGICS from Comedian, Writer and Creator Stephanie Kaliner. SPRINKLE and the SWEET SUGAR MAGICS is an 11-minute comedy for kids 6-9 about a character named Cara who… »
from the internets: Nickelodeon Announces This Year’s Shorts… CANADIANS!
Here’s the link: http://variety.com/2016/tv/news/nickelodeon-2016-animated-shorts-program-2015-finalists-1201695536/ Here’s the excitement: Ramblers Created by Brett Jubenville and Morghan Fortier Norville, Mr. Gobbles and Opee are Ramblers: intergalactic scouts on a mission to explore the universe and earn badges. THAT’S TINMAN!!! You know? The SUPER SCIENCE FRIENDS guys!!!!!! Awesomesauce. But WAIT! THERE’S MORE!!!!! Myth of Robo Wonder Kid Created by… »
press release: KIDS’ CBC WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVES MARIE MCCANN AND DREW MULLIN
January 25, 2016– Kids’ CBC announced today the hiring of Marie McCann and Drew Mullin as executives in charge of production for Children’s Content. In their new roles, McCann and Mullin will report directly to Martin Markle, senior director of Children’s Content for CBC Television. “Marie and Drew have a lot of heart and creativity, and I’m… »
press release: TAAFI ANNOUNCES 2016 GUEST SPEAKERS
Walt Disney Studios, Hanna-Barbera, and many recognized animators TORONTO, ON — The Toronto Animation Arts Festival International (TAAFI) has announced six guest speakers for its 2016 program. Recognized for their work on various award-winning animated films and popular television series, the industry leaders will speak at George Brown College – Waterfront Campus during the festival… »
press release: Nerds and Monsters Season 2 on YTV
SLAP HAPPY CARTOONS’ NERDS AND MONSTERS SEASON TWO PREMIERES SATURDAY JANUARY 9th at 10:00 a.m. ET/PT ON YTV (Jan. 6, 2016 – Vancouver, Canada) – Vancouver-based animation studio Slap Happy Cartoons Inc. is pleased to announce the premiere of the second season of their animated series Nerds and Monsters on Corus Entertainment’s YTV, debuting Saturday,… »
Call For Entries: 2016 Fest Anca
The 9th Fest Anča International Animation Festival has launched a call for entries that will end on March 15, 2016. Only films made after January 1, 2014 can be considered for the 9ᵗʰ Fest Anča 2016. Only those submitters whose digital copies or DVD/Blu-Ray screeners are sent before March 15, 2016 will be considered for… »
press release: NFB’s Carface directed by Claude Cloutier wins at 2015 Sommets du cinéma d’animation
Carface (Autos Portraits) by Claude Cloutier, a short produced by Julie Roy for the National Film Board of Canada (NFB), won the International Competition Prize at the 2015 Sommets du cinéma d’animation earlier this evening. The Festival ran from November 25 to 29 in Montreal. The film has made the shortlist of 10 works… »
press release: NFB’s Hothouse Program Back for 11th Season
Want to make an animated film? Apply by December 11 for the chance to be part of the NFB’s Hothouse program for emerging Canadian animators November 26, 2015 – Toronto – National Film Board of Canada (NFB) The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is seeking submissions for its Hothouse apprenticeship program for emerging Canadian… »
Showcase: Eoin Duffy’s Einstein100 – General Relativity
We’ve showcased his work before (check out the Missing Scarf here), and now we’re doing it again. This one’s got it all: Einstein, animation, and Doctor Who himself, David Tennant!!! Last time they got Sulu, this time Dr. Who. Crazy. Vancouver animator Eoin Duffy makes films I like to watch. So here it is, watch… »
press release: Smiley Guys unleashing the CURSE OF CLARA, just in time for the holidays, on CBC!
Full disclosure, I’ve got a personal stake in this one. In my other life, I’m the director of development at Smiley Guy Studios in Toronto. I’m also an in house producer and director. In that capacity, I’m immensely proud to share the press release for the Curse of Clara: a Holiday Tale. The Smiley crew… »
press release: YMA Conference presents Lion Guard Supervising Director Howy Parkins, November 18-20, Toronto
Montreal, October 19, 2015 – You have until this Friday, October 23, to take advantage of the early-bird rate for the 2015 Children, Youth & Media (CYM) Conference – the must-attend event for youth TV and digital production professionals, November 18–20 in Toronto. Among the notable guests, Youth Media Alliance (YMA) will host an exclusive… »
Press Release: Portfolio Entertainment Announces Launch of Toronto Production Studio
(September 21, 2015 – Toronto, Canada) – Producer and distributor Portfolio Entertainment is pleased to announce the launch of Portfolio Animation, a creative-driven animation studio equipped with top-tier talent, cutting-edge technology and commitment to excellence. The studio is part of Portfolio’s multi-faceted expansion plan that commenced in 2014 with the installation of a new senior… »
press release: 9 Story Media Group Acquires Award Winning Animation Studio Brown Bag Films
Ok, this one’s interesting. m Toronto, Canada – August 18th, 2015 – 9 Story Media Group is pleased to announce that it has acquired award winning animation studio Brown Bag Films. With headquarters in Dublin, a studio in Manchester and an office in Los Angeles, Brown Bag Films employ 170 creative and production staff and… »
press release: Atomic Announces Development on Mariachi Zombie
ATOMIC AND THE UNDEAD TEAM UP:STUDIO PICKS UP MEXICAN ZOMBIE FESTIVAL WINNER FOR NEW SERIES (Vancouver, BC) – Atomic Cartoons announced today an agreement to develop Mariachi Zombie, a new animated comedy series for kids seven to 11. Plans are in the works for 52 x 11′ episodes integrating the best of zombie and mariachi… »
Press Release: Corus VP Jocelyn Hamilton Moves to eOne as President of eOne TV Canada
Sadly, we weren’t on the press list for this one, so I’m lifting from Playback: Longtime Corus executive Jocelyn Hamilton has been named president of eOne Television in Canada, the producer and distributor announced after business hours today. Hamilton has been leading original programming at Corus as VP programming and original productions for the broadcaster since… »
Press Release: Arctic Justice Announces Star Studded Cast
JOHN CLEESE, ALEC BALDWIN, JAMES FRANCO, ANJELICA HUSTON, HEIDI KLUM, AND OMAR SY BOARD AMBI PICTURES’ 3D CGI ANIMATED FAMILY FILM “ARCTIC JUSTICE: THUNDER SQUAD” May 5, 2015 — Andrea Iervolino and Lady Monika Bacardi’s AMBI Pictures has begun securing its voice cast for the epic 3D, CGI animated family film “Arctic Justice: Thunder Squad.” Alec… »
Meanwhile, in Toronto: SO MANY JOBS!!!!!! TAAFI Job Fair coming up fast!
Canadian and US Studios Battle for Talent at Toronto Animation Job Fair TAAFI helps the booming Canadian animation industry connect with much needed talent TORONTO, Ontario (April 20, 2015) – The Toronto Animation Arts Festival International (TAAFI) is pleased to announce the Animation Job Fair will be held on May 2 at George Brown… »
press release: Dave Cooper’s Bagel and Becky Lands at Teletoon
April 13, 2015 – Toronto, Ontario – Corus Entertainment’s TELETOON has commissioned the animated comedy series, The Bagel and Becky Show from Radical Sheep Productions for their 2016/2017 slate. Production has started on 52×11 minute episodes of the animated series, based on the book “Bagel’s Lucky Hat” by Dave Cooper, co-creator of Nickelodeon’s PIGGOATBANANACRICKET. … »
press release: Prism Prize for Best Canadian Music Video Goes to Chad VanGaalen, Animation Wins!
CHAD VANGAALEN, Director of Beat The Drum Slowly by Timber Timbre, WINS 2015 PRISM PRIZE For Best Canadian Music Video On Sunday, March 29, director Chad VanGaalen was announced as the winner of the 2015 Prism Prize for Timber Timbre’s Beat The Drum Slowly music video at the Prism Prize Top Ten Screening and Awards… »
This Year’s YMA Emerging Talent Award is Going to Mike Geiger. Yep, THAT Mike Geiger
The Youth Media Alliance (YMA) is proud to give its Outstanding Achievement Award to Andra Sheffer and its Emerging Talent Award to Mike Geiger. These distinguished professionals will be honoured at a gala to be held on May 27th at the CBC Glenn Gould Studio, in Toronto. Regular reader’s are no stranger to Mike’s work,… »
jobby: TAAFI Launches TAAFI Animation Job Fair, May 2nd, Toronto
Gaming, Broadcast and VFX Studios Converge on Toronto for One-of-a-Kind Animation Job Fair TAAFI, Toronto’s Animation Festival helps the booming Canadian animation industry connect with much needed talent TORONTO, Ontario (March 23, 2015) – The Toronto Animation Arts Festival International (TAAFI) is pleased to announce the 2015 TAAFI Animation Job Fair to be held on… »
press release: 9 Story Media Group Announces Sale of Hit Animated Comedy GET ACE to Boing France
Toronto, Canada – March 24, 2015 – 9 Story Media Group is pleased to announce that it has licensed the hit animated comedy series Get Ace (52 x 11’) to Boing (France), part of Turner Kids’ portfolio in France, made of 3 channels: Boing, Boomerang and Cartoon Network. The series is produced by Australia’s… »
press release: DHX TELEVISION COMMISSIONS RADICAL SHEEP’S ANIMATED COMEDY ACTION SERIES FANGBONE!
Toronto, March 5, 2015 – DHX Television, the broadcasting division of DHX Media Ltd., is heading to the drawing board for more animation after ordering the new comedy adventure series Fangbone! from Radical Sheep Productions. It was announced today that production has commenced on 52 x 11-minute episodes of the animated series, based on the… »
press release: Sixteen Sheridan graduates take home Canadian Screen Awards
(Oakville, Ontario): Congratulations to 16 Sheridan graduates who have received 20 Canadian Screen Awards this year. The Canadian Screen Awards (CSAs) celebrate homegrown talent in front of the camera and behind the scenes in film, television and digital media. The 2015 CSAs were presented at a series of week-long events, culminating in the final broadcast… »
press release: NATIONAL FILM BOARD OF CANADA WINS FIVE CANADIAN SCREEN AWARDS
National Film Board of Canada (NFB) productions and craftspeople have received five 2015 Canadian Screen Awards, presented by the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television, recognizing excellence in film, television and digital media. NFB winners: Best Original Interactive Production Produced for Digital Media Fort McMoney, created by David Dufresne Produced by Philippe Lamarre and Raphaëlle… »
OIAF 2015 Call for Submissions!
World-Leading Animation Event Seeks Submissions for International Showcase in Ottawa OTTAWA, ON, CANADA (February 24, 2015) – The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF), one of the world’s most respected film festivals, is seeking state-of-the-art, thoughtful, funny and provocative animated films to showcase at venues in the national capital region from September 16th through the 20th…. »
Press Release: NFB Launches Hothouse 10 Films Online
DISCOVER NEW SHORT FILMS BY EMERGING ANIMATORS AT NFB.CA AS THE 10TH EDITION OF “HOTHOUSE” LAUNCHES ONLINE, MARCH 9 Oscar winner Chris Landreth is this year’s mentoring director February 26, 2015 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada Beginning March 9, animation lovers can discover eight new short works by emerging animators with the… »
iKids Awards! Marblemedia! DHX!
The Kidscreen Summit in Miami (did I mention it’s in Miami this year? Because it is. In Miami) supports two sets of awards, the Kidscreen Awards, and the iKids Awards for digital media projects. We ran a post on the Kidscreen Awards, so it’s only fair we highlight the Canadians who picked up iKids awards… »
Kidscreen Awards! Peg + Cat! Fangbone! Dino Dan! Stella and Sam!
We haven’t been covering Kidscreen this year because: A) We aren’t there. and B) It’s in Miami, and we’re having a big hissy fit because all our friends are warm and sipping cocktails, and we’re not. But it’s a thing, and it’s happening right now. IN MIAMI. I’m sure there are a bunch of readers… »
press release: Jillianne Reinseth Heads to eOne Family as VP Creative Affairs
We didn’t get the press release fort this one, so I’m cut-and-pasting directly from Kidscreen: Entertainment One Family and Entertainment One Licensing (eOne), has appointed former Nerd Corps exec Jillianne Reinseth as VP of creative affairs for eOne Family. Based in Toronto, Canada, Reinseth steps into the new role on March 2. She will lead creative affairs for eOne Family and oversee the division’s linear… »
press release: Pat Ellingson Announces Retirement from TVO
Pat Ellingson, TVO’s long-serving Creative Head of Children’s and Parents’ Media, is retiring effectiveAugust 31, 2015. Pat joined TVO in August 1995 to help start up TVO’s venture into live current affairs programming, Studio 2. In 1998, she was named Creative Head of Children’s Programming. Working with some of Canada’s most notable producers, Pat consistently… »
press release9 Story Media Group appoints Jennifer McCann to Director of Development
Toronto, Canada – February 16, 2015 – 9 Story Media Group is pleased to announce the appointment of seasoned producer Jennifer McCann to the position of Director of Development. Reporting to Vice President of Creative Affairs Natalie Dumoulin, McCann will be responsible for sourcing and developing animated and live-action properties for kids of all ages,… »
Press Release: Michelle Melanson Cuperus Steps Up at Radical Sheep
It’s been a busy few weeks, and we’re playing a bit of catch up. There have been a few changes among the executive class in our community and I don’t want to overlook this piece of good news: Radical Sheep President John Leitch announces the promotion of Michelle Melanson Cuperus, Vice President Development and Production… »
press release: Sheridan Graduate Receives Animation Industry’s Highest Honour
How to Train Your Dragon 2, written and directed by Dean DeBlois, picks up six Annie Awards, including Best Animated Feature (Oakville, Ontario): How to Train Your Dragon 2 took top honours at the Annie Awards on January 31, winning Best Animated Feature and Outstanding Achievement, Directing for Dean DeBlois. The 42nd Annie Awards, which… »
press release: NFB Announces PASSING OF DIRECTOR-PRODUCER RENÉ JODOIN
PASSING OF DIRECTOR-PRODUCER RENÉ JODOIN An early collaborator of Norman McLaren, founder of the NFB’s French Animation Studio and recipient of the 2001 Prix Albert-Tessier January 26, 2015 – Montreal, National Film Board of Canada (NFB) Director-producer René Jodoin passed away on January 22, 2015, in Montreal, at the age of 94. Born in Hull,… »
press release: Super Simple Learning Teams Up with Tinman Creative Studios to Produce a Wide Range of Pre-School Series Content
Super Simple Learning, creators of the popular Super Simple Songs YouTube kids channel focusing on music, learning, and entertainment, is excited to announce it will be expanding into long-form series production over the next 12 months. They’ve teamed up with animation studio Tinman Creative to develop and produce several new animated series about science, animals,… »
Oscar Nominations Announced, Torill Kove’s Me and Moulton for Best Animated Short
For a whole bunch of people, today was a very exciting day. Oscar nominations were announced this morning. Here are the animation nominees: Best Animated Feature • Big Hero 6 (Walt Disney Feature Animation) Directed by Canadian-raised, Missouri-born, Chris Williams. • The Boxtrolls (Laika) Co-Directed by Canadian, Graham Anable. • How To Train Your Dragon 2 (Dreamworks… »
from the internets: Battle of the Planets reboot coming from Nelvana!
This is the greatest cartoon of my childhood. And the folks at Nelvana are bringing it back. Some lucky buggers are getting directed to “re-imagine the cult anime series with a distinct new look and feel, but will feature the same big action stories and characters”. Here’s the link to the news on Kidscreen. Excuse… »
Me and My Moulton, by Torill Kove, Available Online For 48 Hours Only
CHECK OUT TORILL KOVE’S NEW ANIMATED SHORT, ME AND MY MOULTON, AVAILABLE ONLINE FREE OF CHARGE AT NFB.CA FOR 48 HOURS STARTING DECEMBER 2 Me and My Moulton nominated for an Annie Award December 2, 2014 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada Me and My Moulton, the latest National Film Board of Canada… »
Holy Moly! DHX MEDIA TO ACQUIRE NERD CORPS (press release, Holy Moly added by me)
DHX MEDIA TO ACQUIRE NERD CORPS Deal adds experienced team, animation capacity and library titles Halifax, Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles, London. 2.12.2014. DHX Media, a key player internationally in the creation of content for families and children, announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Vancouver-based Nerd Corps Entertainment Inc. and… »
cool beans: Nadege artist series features Brandon James Scott
Nadege is an upscale bakery in Toronto’s super hip Queen West neighbourhood. Their particular claim to fame is what some people consider the best Macaron in the city. They even have a mission statement: Welcome to Nadège, a place where your senses are tickled by excellence. Combining the art of French pastry with fresh, modern… »
press release: Portfolio Entertainment Appoints Liliana Vogt To the Newly Created Position of Senior Vice President, Content
Toronto, ON [November 11, 2014] — Portfolio Entertainment is pleased to announce the appointment of senior development executive, Liliana Vogt, to the newly created position of Senior Vice President, Content. Reporting to Lisa Olfman, CEO and Co-Founder of Portfolio Entertainment, Vogt will oversee all facets of content development for the company. In her new role,… »
press release: KRATT BROTHERS COMPANY AND 9 STORY ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCE PRODUCTION OF FOURTH SEASON OF HIT ANIMATED ADVENTURE SERIES WILD KRATTS FOR PBS KIDS
Toronto, Canada – October 8, 2014 – Kratt Brothers Company and 9 Story Entertainment are pleased to announce production of a fourth season of the hit animated wildlife adventure series Wild Kratts for PBS KIDS. The series was created and developed by real life brothers and zoologists, Martin and Chris Kratt who star in the show… »
press release: NEW NAME FOR 9STORY; 9 Story Entertainment rebrands as 9 Story Media Group Name reflective of new structure, new vision
Toronto, Canada – October 10, 2014 – 9 Story Entertainment today announced that it has rebranded as 9 Story Media Group, effective immediately. The new corporate name comes shortly after ZM Capital and media entrepreneur Neil Court became equity investors in the organization. “9 Story Media Group better reflects the new structure of the company… »
press release: ATOMIC CARTOONS CIRCLES THE GLOBE THIS FALL WITH INTERNATIONAL MISSION TO INDIA AND TRADE SHOW IN FRANCE
(Vancouver, BC) – Atomic Cartoons is continuing its upward trajectory this fall with participation in the B.C./India Trade Mission, as well as offering a strong slate of shows at this year’s key animation industry event, MIPCOM, held in Cannes from October 13 to 16. Trevor Bentley, president of the vibrant animation studio, which has seen… »
press release: Radical Sheep launches animation/live action hybrid Can You Imagine That, with TVO and Knowledge Network
Production is underway on new Radical Sheep Preschool Series ‘Can you Imagine That?’ for TVO and Knowledge Network Kids are in the drivers seat in the new live action/animation hybrid production ‘Can you Imagine That?’ produced by Radical Sheep Productions in Association with Crush Animation. Using the premise, “If you could be anything, what would… »
showcase: The Missing Scarf, by Eoin Duffy
Just watch this. It’s terrific. And it’s got Sulu narrating. Original Sulu, not Harold & Kumar Sulu. George-freaking-Takei. The Missing Scarf is Now Available Online! Press release: One of the year’s most successful short films premieres online. The animated dark-comedy, masquerading as a classic kid-friendly morality-tale, has racked up 16 international awards, including honours from… »
press release: Victory Arts announces development deal with TVO for animated preschool series Air Crafters as it heads to MipJr and Mipcom
Ottawa, Canada – September 23, 2014. Victory Arts announces a development deal with Canada’s TVO for a new animated preschool series Air Crafters (52×11′). The CG with mixed media series, created by Tero Hollo, Founder and Director of Creative Content for Victory Arts, will be produced by Victory Arts with Amberwood Entertainment (Rob the Robot,… »
OIAF 2014 Winners Announced! Poland and Canada Take Top Prizes
OTTAWA (September 20, 2014)— The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) competition component has come to an end with the highly anticipated award ceremonies, which were held this evening at St. Brigid’s Centre for the Arts. OIAF organizers announced the 2014 winners of the official competition during the ceremonies. This year’s OIAF, which is in… »
press release: 9 Story Entertainment announces new broadcast deals for the animated comedy NERDS AND MONSTERS
Toronto, Canada – September 15, 2014 – 9 Story Entertainment is pleased to announce that it has signed multiple deals for Slap Happy Cartoons’ hilarious animated comedy, Nerds and Monsters (40 x 11’). Licenses include TVE (Spain), Canal+ Family (France and Africa), E-Junior (UAE), Noga (Israel) and MBC Kids (Middle East). The show was previously… »
press release: NFB swag at Roots
ROOTS CELEBRATES THE NFB’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY WITH LIMITED EDITION COLLECTION Wear your love of great Canadian cinema with tees, longsleeves and hoodies featuring images from classic animation and the NFB’s iconic retro logo Roots has teamed up with the National Film Board of Canada (NFB), Canada’s Oscar-winning public film producer and distributor, to create a… »
press release: 17 NFB Films Featured at OIAF 2014
SEVENTEEN NFB FILMS FEATURED AT OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL ANIMATION FESTIVAL, INCLUDING TWO WORLD PREMIERES This year’s selection includes documentaries on Norman McLaren and Canadian cartoonist Seth August 18, 2014 • Toronto, Ontario • National Film Board of Canada A world leader in auteur animation, the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) will be showcased at the… »
press release: 9 Story Entertainment appoints Natalie Dumoulin to new role of VP, Creative Affairs
Toronto, Canada – September 9, 2014 – 9 Story Entertainment is pleased to announce the appointment of award-winning media executive Natalie Dumoulin to the newly created position of Vice President, Creative Affairs. Reporting directly to President and CEO Vince Commisso, Dumoulin will be responsible for sourcing and developing animated and live-action properties for kids of… »
press release: OIAF 2014 in Two Weeks!
A WORLD OF ANIMATION IN THE CAPITAL OIAF JUST TWO WEEKS AWAY! OTTAWA, Ontario (September 3, 2014) – From September 17-21, Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) audiences will feast their eyes on the edgiest, most innovative animation the world has to offer. Now in its 38th year, the OIAF is an event that unites artists,… »
press release: Montreal Stop Motion Film Festival presents Behind-the-Scenes of The Boxtrolls and Robot Chicken
The Montreal Stop Motion Film Festival Behind-the-Scenes of The Boxtrolls and Robot Chicken September 26th, 27th, and 28th, 2014 Montreal, August 26, 2014 The sixth edition of the Montreal Stop Motion Film Festival is proud to announce the release of its official program for 2014. This year, the Festival will be taking place on… »
call for entries: 18th Japan Media Arts Festival
18th Japan Media Arts Festival | Call for Entries Deadline: 2 September 2014 (18:00 Japan Standard Time) The Japan Media Arts Festival is a comprehensive festival of Media Arts (Media Geijutsu) that honors outstanding works from a diverse range of media – from animation and comics to media art and games. The festival gives awards… »
press release: OIAF Spotlights Walt Disney Animation Studios
WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS IN SPOTLIGHT AT THE OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL ANIMATION FESTIVAL OTTAWA (August 20, 2014) – Presented with the support of Celebrate Ontario and Walt Disney Animation Studios, the Ottawa International Animation Festival is celebrating the world’s most beloved, successful and pioneering animation studio with a series of screenings, talks, exhibitions and legendary Disney… »
press release: Tricon Kids & Family welcomes Frank Saperstein as new Executive VP
Tricon Kids & Family expands with the appointment of Frank Saperstein as EVP, Kids, Family & Animation Toronto/Los Angeles – July 30, 2014 – Tricon Films & Television continues to grow its boutique Kids & Family division with the appointment of Frank Saperstein as Executive Vice President, Kids, Family & Animation. In this new position,… »
press release: OIAF announces short film competitors, Canadians representing
CANADIAN COMPETITION SHINES ON THE WORLD STAGE Ottawa (July 17, 2014) – The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) is pleased to announce the Short Film Competition for 2014. Once again, Canada is well represented with 53 films in the spotlight. From a total of 2185 entries received, 110 films representing 24 countries have been chosen… »
events: PITCH THIS! at TAC 2014
GET YOUR IDEAS OFF THE PAGE AND ON THE AIR with TAC and PITCH THIS! 2014 OTTAWA, Ontario – Do you have an animated series idea that needs to be seen? Are you looking for the perfect audience to present your idea? Put together your best pitch and submit it to PITCH THIS! a program… »
press release: Markle Productions and TVO developing Craft Kids
Craft Kids enters development with help of TVO Markle Productions has entered into a deal with TVO to develop the animated 2D pre-school series Craft Kids (26 x 22 mins). The storyline follows the 6-year-old creative whirlwind Kian and her intrepid best friend, Luca, as they find inspiration in the daily objects around them to… »
OIAF 2014 Announces Selection For Feature Film Category
LEMONS, CONVICTS AND CARTOONISTS A RICH AND ENGAGING COLLECTION OF FEATURE FILMS TO BE SHOWCASED IN THE OIAF 2014 COMPETITION OTTAWA (July 4, 2014) – The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) is pleased to announce the selection of films competing in the Feature Film Category at this year’s Festival running September 17-21. “This year’s feature… »
press release: OIAF ANNOUNCES THE SHORT ANIMATION AND SERIES FOR KIDS COMPETITION
OTTAWA (June 24, 2014) The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) is pleased to announce the finalists for the competition of Short Films for Kids and Series for Kids at this year’s Festival running September 17-21. While last year’s OIAF winner in Series for TV, Regular Show, returns with the hilarious The Last Laserdisc Player, France… »
press release: PEG + CAT picks up 3 Daytime Emmy Awards
PEG + CAT wins 3 Emmy Awards including Outstanding Pre-School Children’s Animation Program Toronto, Canada – June 23, 2014 – 9 Story Entertainment is pleased to announce that its series Peg + Cat (80 x 12’) has won three Emmys at the 2014 Daytime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Pre-School Children’s Animation Program, Outstanding Performer in… »
press release: Warren United premieres on BiteTV tonight!
BITE TV WELCOMES WORLD CUP WITH WARREN UNITED, A NEW ANIMATED SITCOM ABOUT FAMILY, FOOTBALL AND THE PASSION OF BEING A FAN SHOW KICKS OFF MONDAY, JUNE 23, 8:30 P.M. EST ON BITE TV TORONTO, ON: An all-star international comedy team brings the first ever animated sitcom about family, football and the passion of being… »
press release: 9 Story Entertainment Announces Sale of CAMP LAKEBOTTOM Season Two to Disney XD U.S.
Toronto, Canada – June 22, 2014 – 9 Story Entertainment is pleased to announce that it has licensed an additional 26 x 22’ episodes of the animated comedy series Camp Lakebottom to Disney XD U.S. The second season of the series has also been picked up by Disney Channel and Disney XD channels in international… »
press release: Radical Sheep’s Stella and Sam nominated for Daytime Emmy!
Toronto, Canada – June 16, 2014 – Radical Sheep Productions is proud to announce the multi award-winning Stella and Sam has been nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award! Stella and Sam has won Canada’s top awards including a Canadian Screen Award, Juno Award and Grand Prize of the Children’s Media Alliance. Now Stella and Sam… »
press release: H.P. LOVECRAFT’S AT THE MOUNTAINS OF MADNESS TO BE ADAPTED INTO ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
Ottawa native and Algonquin College alum, Stephen Sloan, has just announced plans for an ambitious feature film debut. Here’s the press release: H.P. LOVECRAFT’S AT THE MOUNTAINS OF MADNESS TO BE ADAPTED INTO ANIMATED FEATURE FILM Partial financing expected to be obtained via crowd funding on KICKSTARTER TORONTO, ONTARIO May 15, 2014 (PR WEB)… »
press release: Ottawa’s Mercury Filmworks launches European Production Studio under former Teletoon Content Exec Alan Gregg
Ottawa, Canada & Ireland – (May 2, 2014) – Mercury Filmworks, Canada’s premiere animation studio, proudly announces its expansion into Europe’s creative market with former Teletoon content chief, Alan Gregg, at the helm. Citing high demand for its creative services and production pipelines, the move marks a significant step toward accessing a broader talent pool… »
Canadian Animaton Blog
- Canadian Animators Shine Again at the OIAFOttawa International Animation Festival Competition Selections AnnouncedOttawa (July 13th, 2017) - The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF), North America’s leading animation film festival, is pleased to announce the Official Competition for 2017. Once again Canadian artists are well represented. Out of the 94 films selected for Competition, 14 are Canadian. Several films are standouts with […]