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for immediate release

NSI & Telefilm Canada seek next generation of Canadian feature filmmakers

Winnipeg � The National Screen Institute � Canada (NSI), in association with Telefilm Canada and program partner The Brian Linehan Charitable Foundation, is seeking filmmaking teams from across Canada for the NSI Features First training program which helps emerging filmmakers develop their first or second feature film.

Up to five teams are chosen for this 10-month training program. The curriculum includes script and story development, market research, legal requirements, pitching, financing, distribution and marketing and sales training delivered by leaders in the Canadian film industry. The successful teams are not required to pay tuition fees or relocate. After initial training, learning opportunities are developed close to home.

Teams must apply with a feature film script.

Guidelines and an application form are available at: http://login.greatbignews.com/agents/linkTrack.cfm?link=0604070C.

Applications must be received by Friday, September 29, 2006.

Since the training program began in 1997, 10 out of 28 projects developed through NSI Features First have been produced. All of these productions have been nominated for or won industry awards.

Fetching Cody by writer/director David Ray and producer Carolyn Allain had its world premiere at the 2005 Toronto International Film Festival. The film won the Director's Choice: Best Feature award at the 2006 Sedona International Film Festival.

7 Times Lucky, written and directed by Gary Yates and produced by Liz Jarvis had its world premiere at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival, won a Genie Award for Best Achievement in Music � Original Song (2006), won Best Picture and Best Screenplay at The Method Fest Independent Film Festival in Los Angeles and was nominated for two Directors Guild of Canada Awards.

On the Corner by writer/director Nathaniel Geary and producer Wendy Hyman was named on Canada's Top Ten list by the Toronto International Film Festival Group and won the prestigious Gold Moon of Valencia award for Best Feature Film at the 2004 Cinema Jove International Film Festival in Spain.

For information about other NSI Features First productions, visit www.nsi-canada.ca.

The National Screen Institute � Canada, with headquarters in Winnipeg, is Canada�s oldest nationally-recognized film and television training school. NSI helps emerging writers, directors and producers bring their stories to life and to audiences at home and abroad. Its market-driven programs have led to employment for NSI graduates by giving them a competitive edge. According to the latest NSI Alumni Survey, 97% of respondents are working in the industry. 2006 marks the National Screen Institute's 20th anniversary year.

The National Screen Institute � Canada operates with ongoing funding from Telefilm Canada through Canadian Heritage, and Manitoba Culture, Heritage and Tourism. Additional support provided by Patrons: CTV, CBC Television and The Brian Linehan Charitable Foundation, Partner: Warner Bros. Entertainment Canada Inc., and financial assistance provided by the Winnipeg Arts Council.

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For further information:

LIZ HOVER
Publicist, National Screen Institute - Canada (NSI)
P: 204-956-7800 ext. 212
E: [email protected]