RBC launches RBC Emerging Filmmakers Competition in partnership with TIFF

• Press Release
• Source: RBC; TIFF; TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
• On 10:30 am EDT, Wednesday September 9, 2009

<< Twenty-five emerging filmmakers vie for cash prize and chance to be a part of RBC's trailer for the 2010 Festival >>

TORONTO, Sept. 9 /CNW/ - RBC today announced the launch of the RBC Emerging Filmmakers Competition in partnership with the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) Talent Lab.

"This competition is designed to provide up and coming Canadian filmmakers with the opportunity to showcase their work and talent to the film industry and the world," said Jennifer Tory, Regional President, Greater Toronto, RBC. "Canadian filmmakers have proven themselves to be among the world's most successful and imaginative. RBC is proud to support the next generation of talent as they look to make their way to the big screen."

Twenty-five emerging filmmakers, who are participating in this year's TIFF Talent Lab, have been chosen for the RBC Emerging Filmmakers Competition. Each filmmaker will be provided with a portable high definition camera and $500 cash and will be challenged to develop a three-four minute short film for the competition. Each year the films will focus on one topic - this year's theme is water.

"As a long-standing valued partner of TIFF, we are thrilled that RBC has once again demonstrated their ongoing commitment to our Talent Lab program with the launch of the RBC Emerging Filmmakers Competition," said Piers Handling, Director and CEO of TIFF. "This competition will give young filmmakers the tools they need to showcase their creative abilities and we can't wait to share the results of the competition with Festival audiences in 2010."

Talent Lab is a four-day intensive program that offers artistic-development opportunities to emerging Canadian filmmakers. The program provides participants with the chance to build networks in a creative environment and learn from some of the most esteemed filmmakers and artists in the world.

"I am honoured to be this year's Talent Lab Industry Ambassador. This program has nurtured some of the strongest and most promising filmmakers, many of whom have returned to the festival with success," said Don McKellar. "I look forward to taking part in the workshops and sessions, and exchanging ideas with the Talent Lab participants."

A panel of industry experts will review the submissions and the top five films will be posted online next Spring. Winners will be announced immediately prior to TIFF 2010, with prizes awarded to the top two jury-selected films and one Fan Favourite, selected from online votes. The national winner will receive $15,000; the honourable mention $10,000 and the Fan Favourite will be awarded $5,000.

For more information about the RBC Emerging Filmmakers Competition and to see the list of participants, visit www.rbc.com/tiff2009.

About RBC and the Community

RBC is proud to support the events and passions that resonate with our clients and all Canadians. In addition to sponsoring numerous grassroots and community causes and events, RBC is pleased to play a leadership role in the following initiatives: The RBC Blue Water Project is aimed at fostering a greater commitment to water stewardship in Canada and abroad. As the longest standing partner of the Canadian Olympic Team, RBC continues its sponsorship through the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. With golf as the top participation sport in Canada, RBC has become the title sponsor of the RBC Canadian Open - the country's national golf championship and the third oldest in the world; and RBC is proud to support the world's top public film festival - the Toronto International Film Festival.

About TIFF

TIFF is a not-for-profit cultural organization whose mission is to transform the way people see the world through film. Its vision is to lead the world in creative and cultural discovery through the moving image. TIFF generates an annual economic impact of $135 million CAD and currently employs more than 100 full-time staff and 500 part-time and seasonal staff, and counts upon the largesse of over 2,000 volunteers year-round.

For further information

Jackie Braden, Manager, Sponsorship Communications, (416) 974-1724

Buzz up!