Press Release

September 2, 2010 – Despite the slowed economic forecast for the global markets, emerging talent in the North American film industry is accelerating their career through Film Market Access’ (FMA) Toronto Program. The seven-day program runs from September 8-15, at the world renown Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). FMA’s program is designed to help emerging filmmakers and film students to maximize their opportunities during TIFF through the following:

• Introduction to the festival in the form of a junior industry delegate
• An internship with well-respected companies such as William Morris Endeavor, IM Global, Moving Pictures, and United Talent Agency.

This year, Film Market Access, in partnership with L.A based Creative Mind Group (CMG) will welcome ten participants to the Toronto Program; 2 Americans & 8 Canadian filmmakers and producers including the talented Nano Debassige, an editor from the Weekgushk Institute and Tetchena Bellange, a Montreal-based director whose film “Les Mains Noires” was selected for the 2010 Montreal World Film Festival.

 Furthermore, FMA secured a partnership with SaskFilm earlier this year in Cannes to select two Saskatchewan recipients for the Toronto Program. Producers Leanne Schinkel and Nils Sorensen were chosen among many applicants from the province. “We are pleased with our partnership with SaskFilm” says Kirk Cooper president of FMA, “as it speaks to our combined commitment to seek new ways in which to develop emerging talent in Canada.” 

 The Toronto Program gives each participant access to key receptions where they can establish valuable contacts with senior industry professionals. Participants also get the chance to learn what triggers a green light on a project by working closely with company executives and being able to observe acquisition and sales meetings.

Each participant receives the following:

• an access badge to the festival;
• shared accommodations at a hotel near the Elgin, AMC and Ryerson theatre venues;
• breakfast and lunch throughout the festival. 

Participants are scheduled to arrive a day before the festival for an orientation meeting that includes a guided tour of all festival venues and welcome dinner. FMA & CMG mentors will be available 24/7 to the participant in order to help them get the most out of their Toronto International Film Festival experience. 

About Film Market Access:

Founded in 2006 Film Market Access (FMA) is a film consulting firm specializing in Film Development, Financing and Publicity services to independent filmmakers. We introduce new trends, alternate business models, access to networking events and introduction to notable companies at film festivals and markets.

 Since 2006, FMA has brought a diverse number of Canadian producers, directors and other arts related delegates to the Festival de Cannes as well as the world’s largest film market, the Marché du Film. In its inaugural year 2009, The Toronto Program introduced several junior industry delegates from around the world (including England & United States) to the Toronto International Film Festival.