Valve doesn’t release new games very often. The company is busy serving as one of the largest digital PC gaming distribution platforms on the planet, but it still supports a decent library of fantastic titles. One of Valve’s most popular games was the competitive Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. While the game is no stranger to controversy, its latest developments have turned the general gaming populace against the once-proud title. In fact, Counter-Strike 2 recently set a “record” for the most negative user reviews for a Valve game in Steam history, though it reached that milestone in a rather unusual way.
Recently, Counter-Strike 2 almost completely supplanted Cs:go. If you search for Counter-Strike on Steam, you get Counter-Strike 2, Counter-Strike, Counter-Strike: Source, and Counter-Strike Nexon: Studio. The free-to-play Cs:go is gone, Cs and Cs: Source cost $10, and, to add insult to injury, Valve didn’t even bother giving CS2 its own store page.
Recently, Counter-Strike 2 almost completely supplanted Cs:go. If you search for Counter-Strike on Steam, you get Counter-Strike 2, Counter-Strike, Counter-Strike: Source, and Counter-Strike Nexon: Studio. The free-to-play Cs:go is gone, Cs and Cs: Source cost $10, and, to add insult to injury, Valve didn’t even bother giving CS2 its own store page.
- 10/11/2023
- by Matthew Byrd
- Den of Geek
Vancouver-based film and television production company Brightlight Pictures has partnered with Level Film and Rocket Science on feature “Precious Cargo,” based on author Craig Davidson’s memoir, “Precious Cargo, My Year of Driving the Kids on School Bus 3077.” This marks the first time Brightlight Pictures has teamed up with Rocket Science, said Brightlight producer Emily Alden and executive producer and Brightlight founder Shawn Williamson.
Now in development with a script adapted by Devon Bain and production slated to begin in the fall, “Precious Cargo” delves into Davidson’s part-time experience as a bus driver for special needs children prior to his success as an author with “Rust and Bone.”
Describing how the project came to them, Alden said that Canadian distribution company Level Film had optioned the film and been looking for a partner. “We came on board and negotiated a deal with Rocket Science to help package it and...
Now in development with a script adapted by Devon Bain and production slated to begin in the fall, “Precious Cargo” delves into Davidson’s part-time experience as a bus driver for special needs children prior to his success as an author with “Rust and Bone.”
Describing how the project came to them, Alden said that Canadian distribution company Level Film had optioned the film and been looking for a partner. “We came on board and negotiated a deal with Rocket Science to help package it and...
- 11/3/2022
- by Anna Marie de la Fuente
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: levelFILM and Wildling Pictures today announced that Suze, the latest comedy from Linsey Stewart and Dane Clark, has begun principal photography in Hamilton, Ontario.
The film follows the emotional rollercoaster of single mother Suze after her only daughter leaves for university on the other side of the country. Suddenly feeling without purpose, Suze quickly finds herself taking care of her daughter’s heartbroken ex-boyfriend who she can’t stand.
The film stars Michaela Watkins, who also serves as an executive producer on the film and Charlie Gillespie (The Rest of Us) who plays the titular character’s daughter’s ex-boyfriend.
“This is a movie about rediscovery, loneliness, codependency, self-worth, and transitions,” said writer-directors Stewart and Clark.
levelFILM’s Dave Hudakoc and John Bain added: “Linsey and Dane have imbued this charming odd couple with authenticity and vulnerability. Michaela and Charlie are the perfect people to breathe life into these complicated characters.
The film follows the emotional rollercoaster of single mother Suze after her only daughter leaves for university on the other side of the country. Suddenly feeling without purpose, Suze quickly finds herself taking care of her daughter’s heartbroken ex-boyfriend who she can’t stand.
The film stars Michaela Watkins, who also serves as an executive producer on the film and Charlie Gillespie (The Rest of Us) who plays the titular character’s daughter’s ex-boyfriend.
“This is a movie about rediscovery, loneliness, codependency, self-worth, and transitions,” said writer-directors Stewart and Clark.
levelFILM’s Dave Hudakoc and John Bain added: “Linsey and Dane have imbued this charming odd couple with authenticity and vulnerability. Michaela and Charlie are the perfect people to breathe life into these complicated characters.
- 9/16/2022
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Bleecker Street has unveiled an exclusive output deal with indie distributor levelFILM for the Canadian market.
As the Toronto Film Festival kicked into gear, Bleecker Street said levelFILM will release north of the border films for which the U.S. partner has North American or worldwide rights. The first title set to be released under the new joint venture will be Catherine Hardwicke’s action comedy Mafia Mamma, starring Toni Collette and Monica Belucci, which is set for a domestic release in 2023.
Bleecker Street’s Kent Sanderson negotiated the output agreement with Avy Eschenasy, while John Bain and Dave Hudakoc negotiated on behalf of levelFILM.
Bleecker Street and levelFILM previously collaborated on the Canadian release of Emma Holly Jones’ Mr. Malcolm’s List, with Freida Pinto; Sundown, starring Tim Roth and Charlotte Gainsbourg; and Together Together, with Ed Helms and Patti Harrison.
Bleecker...
Bleecker Street has unveiled an exclusive output deal with indie distributor levelFILM for the Canadian market.
As the Toronto Film Festival kicked into gear, Bleecker Street said levelFILM will release north of the border films for which the U.S. partner has North American or worldwide rights. The first title set to be released under the new joint venture will be Catherine Hardwicke’s action comedy Mafia Mamma, starring Toni Collette and Monica Belucci, which is set for a domestic release in 2023.
Bleecker Street’s Kent Sanderson negotiated the output agreement with Avy Eschenasy, while John Bain and Dave Hudakoc negotiated on behalf of levelFILM.
Bleecker Street and levelFILM previously collaborated on the Canadian release of Emma Holly Jones’ Mr. Malcolm’s List, with Freida Pinto; Sundown, starring Tim Roth and Charlotte Gainsbourg; and Together Together, with Ed Helms and Patti Harrison.
Bleecker...
- 9/9/2022
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Bleecker Street and LevelFILM announced today an exclusive output deal that will see the latter handle distribution of the films to which the former holds North American or worldwide rights.
“Mafia Mamma,” the action-comedy directed by Catherine Hardwicke and starring Toni Colette and Monica Belucci, is the first title to be released through the new partnership. The film is set to premiere in 2023.
The deal follows a series of collaborations between the two companies, including “Mr. Malcolm’s List,” “Sundown,” “Together Together,” “The World to Come,” “The Assistant” and “Save Yourselves!”
Also Read:
South Korean Crime Thriller ‘Project Wolf Hunting’ Lands North American Deal Ahead of TIFF Premiere
In addition to forming the new venture, Bleecker is showcasing a number of titles at the Toronto International Film Festival, which kicked off yesterday. Frances O’Connnor’s “Emily,” starring Emma Mackey, will open the Platform Program with its debut this week. Other upcoming films are “Golda,...
“Mafia Mamma,” the action-comedy directed by Catherine Hardwicke and starring Toni Colette and Monica Belucci, is the first title to be released through the new partnership. The film is set to premiere in 2023.
The deal follows a series of collaborations between the two companies, including “Mr. Malcolm’s List,” “Sundown,” “Together Together,” “The World to Come,” “The Assistant” and “Save Yourselves!”
Also Read:
South Korean Crime Thriller ‘Project Wolf Hunting’ Lands North American Deal Ahead of TIFF Premiere
In addition to forming the new venture, Bleecker is showcasing a number of titles at the Toronto International Film Festival, which kicked off yesterday. Frances O’Connnor’s “Emily,” starring Emma Mackey, will open the Platform Program with its debut this week. Other upcoming films are “Golda,...
- 9/9/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Bleecker Street has signed an exclusive output deal with Canadian distributor LevelFilm.
The partnership will see LevelFilm handle the Canadian distribution to Bleecker Street’s films where they control the North American or worldwide rights. The first movie that will be released under the new joint venture is Catherine Hardwicke’s action comedy “Mafia Mamma,” which stars Toni Collette and Monica Belucci.
The film is set for a nationwide release in 2023.
Bleecker Street’s Kent Sanderson negotiated the output agreement with Avy Eschenasy, while John Bain and Dave Hudakoc negotiated on behalf of LevelFilm.
Bleecker Street and LevelFilm previously collaborated on several titles including Emma Holly Jones’ “Mr. Malcolm’s List” with Freida Pinto, “Sundown” starring Tim Roth and Charlotte Gainsbourg, “Together Together” with Ed Helms and Patti Harrison, “The World to Come” with Katherine Waterston and Vanessa Kirby, Kitty Green’s “The Assistant” and Alex Huston Fischer and Eleanor Wilson...
The partnership will see LevelFilm handle the Canadian distribution to Bleecker Street’s films where they control the North American or worldwide rights. The first movie that will be released under the new joint venture is Catherine Hardwicke’s action comedy “Mafia Mamma,” which stars Toni Collette and Monica Belucci.
The film is set for a nationwide release in 2023.
Bleecker Street’s Kent Sanderson negotiated the output agreement with Avy Eschenasy, while John Bain and Dave Hudakoc negotiated on behalf of LevelFilm.
Bleecker Street and LevelFilm previously collaborated on several titles including Emma Holly Jones’ “Mr. Malcolm’s List” with Freida Pinto, “Sundown” starring Tim Roth and Charlotte Gainsbourg, “Together Together” with Ed Helms and Patti Harrison, “The World to Come” with Katherine Waterston and Vanessa Kirby, Kitty Green’s “The Assistant” and Alex Huston Fischer and Eleanor Wilson...
- 9/9/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
U.S. indie distribution stalwart Bleecker Street has announced an exclusive output deal with Canadian distributor, levelFILM as it heads into a busy Toronto International Film Festival.
The partnership will see levelFILM handle Canadian distribution for Bleecker Street’s films where they control the North American or worldwide rights.
The partnership will kick off with Catherine Hardwicke’s action comedy Mafia Mamma starring Toni Collette and Monica Belucci. The film is set for a nationwide release in 2023.
Bleecker Street’s Kent Sanderson negotiated the output agreement with Avy Eschenasy, while John Bain and Dave Hudakoc negotiated on behalf of levelFILM.
The new distribution partners previously collaborated several titles including Emma Holly Jones’ Mr. Malcolm’s List;, Sundown starring Tim Roth and Charlotte Gainsbourg; Mona Fastvold’s Venice 2022 romance The World to Come, Kitty Green’s The Assistant and Alex Huston Fischer and Eleanor Wilson’s Save Yourselves!.
Bleecker Street’s upcoming...
The partnership will see levelFILM handle Canadian distribution for Bleecker Street’s films where they control the North American or worldwide rights.
The partnership will kick off with Catherine Hardwicke’s action comedy Mafia Mamma starring Toni Collette and Monica Belucci. The film is set for a nationwide release in 2023.
Bleecker Street’s Kent Sanderson negotiated the output agreement with Avy Eschenasy, while John Bain and Dave Hudakoc negotiated on behalf of levelFILM.
The new distribution partners previously collaborated several titles including Emma Holly Jones’ Mr. Malcolm’s List;, Sundown starring Tim Roth and Charlotte Gainsbourg; Mona Fastvold’s Venice 2022 romance The World to Come, Kitty Green’s The Assistant and Alex Huston Fischer and Eleanor Wilson’s Save Yourselves!.
Bleecker Street’s upcoming...
- 9/9/2022
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
First release is action-comedy Mafia Mamma.
Bleecker Street has announced an exclusive output deal with Canadian distributor, levelFILM heading into TIFF, where Bleecker has Frances O’Connor’s Emily playing in Platform.
The partnership will see levelFILM handle Canadian distribution on Bleecker Street films where the latter controls North American or worldwide rights.
The first title to be released under the joint venture will be Catherine Hardwicke’s action-comedy Mafia Mamma starring Toni Collette and Monica Belucci, set for nationwide release in 2023.
Bleecker Street and levelFILM previously collaborated on Emma Holly Jones’ Mr. Malcolm’s List with Freida Pinto, Sundown (pictured...
Bleecker Street has announced an exclusive output deal with Canadian distributor, levelFILM heading into TIFF, where Bleecker has Frances O’Connor’s Emily playing in Platform.
The partnership will see levelFILM handle Canadian distribution on Bleecker Street films where the latter controls North American or worldwide rights.
The first title to be released under the joint venture will be Catherine Hardwicke’s action-comedy Mafia Mamma starring Toni Collette and Monica Belucci, set for nationwide release in 2023.
Bleecker Street and levelFILM previously collaborated on Emma Holly Jones’ Mr. Malcolm’s List with Freida Pinto, Sundown (pictured...
- 9/9/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Robin Smith joins company as head of factual content.
Toronto-based distributor levelFILM has acquired KinoSmith and signed a multi-year partnership with Blue Ice Documentary Fund (Bid) to manage the Bid library and partner on new acquisitions.
The transaction will enable the companies to build a more robust distribution partnership for Bid factual production investments. As part of the deal, the KinoSmith library of content and former KinoSmith president and current CEO of Blue Ice Docs Robin Smith will join the levelFILM team.
Smith will act as the company’s head of factual content and oversee the combined entity’s library of documentaries,...
Toronto-based distributor levelFILM has acquired KinoSmith and signed a multi-year partnership with Blue Ice Documentary Fund (Bid) to manage the Bid library and partner on new acquisitions.
The transaction will enable the companies to build a more robust distribution partnership for Bid factual production investments. As part of the deal, the KinoSmith library of content and former KinoSmith president and current CEO of Blue Ice Docs Robin Smith will join the levelFILM team.
Smith will act as the company’s head of factual content and oversee the combined entity’s library of documentaries,...
- 10/6/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Greenwich Entertainment and levelFILM have struck a multi-year partnership for the Canadian distributor to handle all of Greenwich’s films in Canada starting with the upcoming release of Ebs Burnough’s The Capote Tapes, which explores the explosive unpublished novel Answered Prayers by Truman Capote.
The film had its world premiere at the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival, its U.S. premiere at Doc NYC and Greenwich is releasing the film in theaters on September 10.
Founded in 2017, Greenwich is led by Co-Presidents Ed Arentz and Andy Bohn and has grown into one of the leading U.S. distributors of arthouse films and documentaries.
Greenwich handled the record-setting theatrical release of Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi’s Academy Award-Winning documentary Free Solo, which grossed more thhan $17M at the North American box office.
Other Greenwich releases include Andrew Slater’s Echo in the Canyon, Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My...
The film had its world premiere at the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival, its U.S. premiere at Doc NYC and Greenwich is releasing the film in theaters on September 10.
Founded in 2017, Greenwich is led by Co-Presidents Ed Arentz and Andy Bohn and has grown into one of the leading U.S. distributors of arthouse films and documentaries.
Greenwich handled the record-setting theatrical release of Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi’s Academy Award-Winning documentary Free Solo, which grossed more thhan $17M at the North American box office.
Other Greenwich releases include Andrew Slater’s Echo in the Canyon, Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My...
- 9/10/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Toronto-based distributor levelFILM has signed a multi-year deal with Greenwich Entertainment to handle all of Greenwich’s films in Canada. The deal, which The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed, will kick off with the upcoming release of Ebs Burnough’s The Capote Tapes, a documentary exploring the explosive impact of Truman Capote’s unpublished novel Answered Prayers. The Capote Tapes had its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival in 2019 and U.S. premiere at Doc NYC. Greenwich is bowing the film in the theaters stateside on Sept. 10.
Greenwich’s Andy Bohn negotiated the output agreement with levelFILM’s Head of Distribution, John Bain.
Greenwich, an arthouse and ...
Greenwich’s Andy Bohn negotiated the output agreement with levelFILM’s Head of Distribution, John Bain.
Greenwich, an arthouse and ...
- 9/10/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Toronto-based distributor levelFILM has signed a multi-year deal with Greenwich Entertainment to handle all of Greenwich’s films in Canada. The deal, which The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed, will kick off with the upcoming release of Ebs Burnough’s The Capote Tapes, a documentary exploring the explosive impact of Truman Capote’s unpublished novel Answered Prayers. The Capote Tapes had its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival in 2019 and U.S. premiere at Doc NYC. Greenwich is bowing the film in the theaters stateside on Sept. 10.
Greenwich’s Andy Bohn negotiated the output agreement with levelFILM’s Head of Distribution, John Bain.
Greenwich, an arthouse and ...
Greenwich’s Andy Bohn negotiated the output agreement with levelFILM’s Head of Distribution, John Bain.
Greenwich, an arthouse and ...
- 9/10/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
LevelFILM to distribute in Canada.
Paris-based Elle Driver will launch worldwide sales excluding Canada next week on Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) selection and vampire dark comedy Kicking Blood.
Blaine Thurier directed the feature from New Real Films and Generativity Productions which receives its world premiere in Contemporary World Cinema on September 10.
Alanna Bale stars as a modern-day vampire who falls for a charming recovering alcoholic and resolves to quit drinking blood and become human again. Luke Bilyk, Vinessa Antoine, Ella Jonas Farlinger, Ben Sutherland and Rosemary Dunsmore round out the principal cast.
Thurier co-wrote the screenplay to Kicking Blood with Leonard Farlinger.
Paris-based Elle Driver will launch worldwide sales excluding Canada next week on Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) selection and vampire dark comedy Kicking Blood.
Blaine Thurier directed the feature from New Real Films and Generativity Productions which receives its world premiere in Contemporary World Cinema on September 10.
Alanna Bale stars as a modern-day vampire who falls for a charming recovering alcoholic and resolves to quit drinking blood and become human again. Luke Bilyk, Vinessa Antoine, Ella Jonas Farlinger, Ben Sutherland and Rosemary Dunsmore round out the principal cast.
Thurier co-wrote the screenplay to Kicking Blood with Leonard Farlinger.
- 8/31/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
EFM Deal For Street Gang: How We Got To Sesame Street
Exclusive: Following its world premiere at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, LevelFilm acquired Canadian rights to documentary Street Gang: How We Got To Sesame Street out of the virtual EFM. The film goes inside the minds of the Sesame Street creators, artists, writers, and educators who together established one of the most influential programs in TV history. Directed by Marilyn Agrelo, the doc was inspired by Michael Davis’s book chronicling the rise of the popular children’s show. The deal was negotiated by Hudakoc and John Bain, Head of Distribution at levelFILM and Mike Messina, EVP of Distribution, for Screen Media. It was produced by Trevor Crafts and Ellen Scherer Crafts of LA-based Macrocosm Entertainment, with producer Lisa Diamond. “Much like in the rest of the world, Sesame Street is beloved in Canada,” said David Hudakoc,...
Exclusive: Following its world premiere at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, LevelFilm acquired Canadian rights to documentary Street Gang: How We Got To Sesame Street out of the virtual EFM. The film goes inside the minds of the Sesame Street creators, artists, writers, and educators who together established one of the most influential programs in TV history. Directed by Marilyn Agrelo, the doc was inspired by Michael Davis’s book chronicling the rise of the popular children’s show. The deal was negotiated by Hudakoc and John Bain, Head of Distribution at levelFILM and Mike Messina, EVP of Distribution, for Screen Media. It was produced by Trevor Crafts and Ellen Scherer Crafts of LA-based Macrocosm Entertainment, with producer Lisa Diamond. “Much like in the rest of the world, Sesame Street is beloved in Canada,” said David Hudakoc,...
- 3/10/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Sundance Film Festival comedy Together Together is heading to Canada via LevelFILM, which has struck a deal with the film’s North American distributor Bleecker Street.
Written and directed by Nikole Beckwith, the film stars Ed Helms, Patti Harrison, Fred Melamed and Tig Notaro.
Together Together follows Matt (Helms), a single man in his 40s and his gestational surrogate Anna (Harrison). The two strangers quickly come to realize that this unexpected relationship will challenge their perceptions of connection, boundaries and the particulars of love.
Pic is produced by Anthony Brandonisio of Wild Idea. You can check out our Sundance interview with the filmmakers here.
“Together Together is an emotional and funny take on an unconventional friendship,” said John Bain, Head of Distribution for levelFILM, which is planning a mid-year theatrical release. “We are thrilled to be bringing this charming film to Canadian audiences.”
Toronto-based LevelFILM and Bleecker have previously...
Written and directed by Nikole Beckwith, the film stars Ed Helms, Patti Harrison, Fred Melamed and Tig Notaro.
Together Together follows Matt (Helms), a single man in his 40s and his gestational surrogate Anna (Harrison). The two strangers quickly come to realize that this unexpected relationship will challenge their perceptions of connection, boundaries and the particulars of love.
Pic is produced by Anthony Brandonisio of Wild Idea. You can check out our Sundance interview with the filmmakers here.
“Together Together is an emotional and funny take on an unconventional friendship,” said John Bain, Head of Distribution for levelFILM, which is planning a mid-year theatrical release. “We are thrilled to be bringing this charming film to Canadian audiences.”
Toronto-based LevelFILM and Bleecker have previously...
- 2/1/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
"Just go talk to her, man, she's cool..." Trust the nice guy, they say. Toxic is an intriguing, suspenseful short film about toxic masculinity made by up-and-coming filmmaker Mike Manning. Now available to watch online - and it's worth a look. The film plays on insecurities and the confusion of expectations vs reality, but also shows us how one fragile male ego cracks after being rejected by a woman at a party. Toxic stars John Bain as Darren, Keisha Castle-Hughes (Academy Award nominee for her performance in 2002's Whale Rider) as Irene, and Nican Robinson as his friend Erik. The production value of this short is excellent, and there's a very eerie atmosphere to the whole thing. Toxic masculinity is an important topic to address in film, though I think this falls a bit short without extra context. But that's the point - ambiguity and intrigue. Thanks to Mike for...
- 12/2/2020
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Exclusive: Canadian distributor levelFILM has picked up rights to Connie Cocchia’s directorial debut When Time Got Louder.
Currently in post-production, the film stars Willow Shields (The Hunger Games), Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost), Lochlyn Munro (Riverdale), Piper Curda (The Wretched), Ava Capri (Blast Beat), and newcomer Jonathan Michael Simao.
Pic follows Abbie (Shields) as she departs for college, leaving her parents Mark (Munro) and Tish (Mitchell), and her brother Kayden (Simao) who has autism and is non-verbal. As she explores her newfound independence with her roommate Jen (Curda) and falls in love with a girl named Karly (Capri), Abbie is torn between her new life and the guilt of leaving her brother as her family struggles to care for him in her absence.
“We are excited to be working with Connie Cocchia on her directorial debut When Time Got Louder,” said John Bain, Head of Distribution of levelFILM. “We are eager...
Currently in post-production, the film stars Willow Shields (The Hunger Games), Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost), Lochlyn Munro (Riverdale), Piper Curda (The Wretched), Ava Capri (Blast Beat), and newcomer Jonathan Michael Simao.
Pic follows Abbie (Shields) as she departs for college, leaving her parents Mark (Munro) and Tish (Mitchell), and her brother Kayden (Simao) who has autism and is non-verbal. As she explores her newfound independence with her roommate Jen (Curda) and falls in love with a girl named Karly (Capri), Abbie is torn between her new life and the guilt of leaving her brother as her family struggles to care for him in her absence.
“We are excited to be working with Connie Cocchia on her directorial debut When Time Got Louder,” said John Bain, Head of Distribution of levelFILM. “We are eager...
- 5/5/2020
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Whistler Film Festival 2019: Whistler Film Fest and Distribution — A Panelby Peter BelsitoTo discuss distribution at Whistler Film Festival we have to look at objective reality.
That is the western Canadian point of view. Which I think I understand and completely agree with.
First the map. Vancouver serves as a cheaper production area for California films / TV to come to. The Us industry’s needs dominate here. Local production takes a back seat.
So this panel gave us an interesting point of view of Canadian professionals.
They support and profit from the Us business coming here.
But they also have their own projects and companies. Sometimes in conflict with their Us partners and rivals.
This panel of experts discussed this conflict.
Jeff Sackman who runs a Canada distributor feels there are fundamental film business differences between the Us and Canada.
Canada film distribution is in trouble and it is getting worse.
That is the western Canadian point of view. Which I think I understand and completely agree with.
First the map. Vancouver serves as a cheaper production area for California films / TV to come to. The Us industry’s needs dominate here. Local production takes a back seat.
So this panel gave us an interesting point of view of Canadian professionals.
They support and profit from the Us business coming here.
But they also have their own projects and companies. Sometimes in conflict with their Us partners and rivals.
This panel of experts discussed this conflict.
Jeff Sackman who runs a Canada distributor feels there are fundamental film business differences between the Us and Canada.
Canada film distribution is in trouble and it is getting worse.
- 12/25/2019
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Exclusive: U.S. distributor Good Deed Entertainment and Canadian outfit levelFILM have entered into a long-term output deal which will see levelFILM handling Good Deed’s Canadian distribution. The two companies will work closely on releases and eye co-acquisition opportunities.
The agreement will see levelFILM handle Good Deed’s slate of films through 2022. The deal was struck by levelFILM’s co-founder David Hudakoc and its Head of Distribution John Bain, and Scott Donley, founder and CEO of Good Deed.
Good Deed’s distribution arm launched in 2016 and has released movies including Oscar-nominee Loving Vincent, Wwi drama Journey’s End, and After Everything with Maika Monroe.
Toronto-based indie levelFILM last year handled movies including faith-based hit I Can Only Imagine, Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 11/9, Ethan Hawke’s Blaze, and Journey’s End and Always At The Carlyle with Good Deed.
“We are thrilled to be solidifying a long-term relationship with Good Deed,...
The agreement will see levelFILM handle Good Deed’s slate of films through 2022. The deal was struck by levelFILM’s co-founder David Hudakoc and its Head of Distribution John Bain, and Scott Donley, founder and CEO of Good Deed.
Good Deed’s distribution arm launched in 2016 and has released movies including Oscar-nominee Loving Vincent, Wwi drama Journey’s End, and After Everything with Maika Monroe.
Toronto-based indie levelFILM last year handled movies including faith-based hit I Can Only Imagine, Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 11/9, Ethan Hawke’s Blaze, and Journey’s End and Always At The Carlyle with Good Deed.
“We are thrilled to be solidifying a long-term relationship with Good Deed,...
- 2/7/2019
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Xyz Films has licensed Us rights to the apocalyptic adventure Riot Girls to Good Deed Entertainment’s new genre label, Cranked Up Films.
Xyz Films has licensed Us rights to the apocalyptic adventure Riot Girls to Good Deed Entertainment’s new genre label, Cranked Up Films.
The distributor has earmarked a summer theatrical and on demand release oo the film directed by Jovanka Vuckovic, who directed a segment of the first all-female horror anthology Xx that premiered at Sundance 2017.
Xyz Films staged a private screening of the film at the Los Cabos International Film Festival in late 2018. The screening was...
Xyz Films has licensed Us rights to the apocalyptic adventure Riot Girls to Good Deed Entertainment’s new genre label, Cranked Up Films.
The distributor has earmarked a summer theatrical and on demand release oo the film directed by Jovanka Vuckovic, who directed a segment of the first all-female horror anthology Xx that premiered at Sundance 2017.
Xyz Films staged a private screening of the film at the Los Cabos International Film Festival in late 2018. The screening was...
- 1/14/2019
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Growing Canadian distributor levelFILM, whose 2018 slate included faith-based box office hit I Can Only Imagine, Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 11/9, and Ike Barenholtz’s The Oath, has bolstered its board of directors with the appointment of music video producer and manager Taj Critchlow (SuperFly).
Toronto-based indie levelFILM now plans to develop and package film and TV projects with Critchlow’s production outfit Popp Rok, whose management clients include music video directors Director X and Karena Evans, who recently signed with Wme. The new partnership will bring with it a first-look deal for Canadian rights.
Critchlow, co-founder of Popp Rok and an executive producer on Drake music videos including Hotline Bling, God’s Plan and In My Feelings, was an executive producer on Sony’s 2018 remake of blackploitation pic SuperFly and associate producer on 2015 pic Across The Line. Both films were directed by Critchlow client Director X.
As the first title...
Toronto-based indie levelFILM now plans to develop and package film and TV projects with Critchlow’s production outfit Popp Rok, whose management clients include music video directors Director X and Karena Evans, who recently signed with Wme. The new partnership will bring with it a first-look deal for Canadian rights.
Critchlow, co-founder of Popp Rok and an executive producer on Drake music videos including Hotline Bling, God’s Plan and In My Feelings, was an executive producer on Sony’s 2018 remake of blackploitation pic SuperFly and associate producer on 2015 pic Across The Line. Both films were directed by Critchlow client Director X.
As the first title...
- 12/5/2018
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Amp International handles international sales on post-apocalyptic thriller Riot Girls.
Xyz Films continues to explore Los Cabos International Film Festival as an alternative launch pad for sales and has reported a strong turnout for a private buyers screening of post-apocalyptic thriller Riot Girls.
One year after the La-based company introduced a successful private screening of horror title Haunting On Fraternity Row, it returns with Riot Girls. Jovanka Vuckovic’s film is not part of the festival, yet Xyz Films partner Nate Bolotin believes the timing and profile of the Mexican event can better serve select filmmakers, away from the crowded...
Xyz Films continues to explore Los Cabos International Film Festival as an alternative launch pad for sales and has reported a strong turnout for a private buyers screening of post-apocalyptic thriller Riot Girls.
One year after the La-based company introduced a successful private screening of horror title Haunting On Fraternity Row, it returns with Riot Girls. Jovanka Vuckovic’s film is not part of the festival, yet Xyz Films partner Nate Bolotin believes the timing and profile of the Mexican event can better serve select filmmakers, away from the crowded...
- 11/10/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: levelFILM and Seville International, an Entertainment One company, have landed the rights to Firecrackers, Jasmin Mozaffari’s directorial debut film, which is slated to have its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. levelFILM has the Canadian distribution rights and will release the pic in spring 2019, while Seville will handle international sales.
Starring Michaela Kurimsky and Karena Evans, the pic follows Lou (Kurimsky) and her best friend Chantal (Evans) as they plan to get out of their isolated, run-down town and move to a city far, far away. When Chantal’s unstable and possessive ex violates her during a night of partying, the girls decide to exact their revenge on him. The consequences of their actions threaten their chances of leaving and the more Lou fights tooth-and-nail to save her friendship and hold onto her dreams, the more she spins out of control as she begins to realize...
Starring Michaela Kurimsky and Karena Evans, the pic follows Lou (Kurimsky) and her best friend Chantal (Evans) as they plan to get out of their isolated, run-down town and move to a city far, far away. When Chantal’s unstable and possessive ex violates her during a night of partying, the girls decide to exact their revenge on him. The consequences of their actions threaten their chances of leaving and the more Lou fights tooth-and-nail to save her friendship and hold onto her dreams, the more she spins out of control as she begins to realize...
- 8/22/2018
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
TotalBiscuit, the online handle of John Bain — a popular and influential British video-game critic, esports commentator and YouTube creator — has died. He was 33.
Bain revealed in 2014 that he had bowel cancer, and this past April announced that the disease had spread to the point where he would be retiring from reviewing games. He died on Thursday.
TotalBiscuit’s YouTube channel has 2.2 million followers, and his videos have been viewed 867 million times to date. He also was a frequent presence on Twitch, the game-broadcasting service. TotalBiscuit began posting gameplay videos on YouTube after he was laid off from his job at a financial-services firm in 2010.
His wife, Genna Bain, posted the text of “Love Constant Beyond Death,” a poem by Francisco de Quevedo, in a tribute to him on Thursday.
Rest in Peace my Dearest Love
John @Totalbiscuit Bain
July 8, 1984 – May 24, 2018 pic.twitter.com/hg9ytHsItJ
— Genna Bain (@GennaBain) May 24, 2018
On Twitch,...
Bain revealed in 2014 that he had bowel cancer, and this past April announced that the disease had spread to the point where he would be retiring from reviewing games. He died on Thursday.
TotalBiscuit’s YouTube channel has 2.2 million followers, and his videos have been viewed 867 million times to date. He also was a frequent presence on Twitch, the game-broadcasting service. TotalBiscuit began posting gameplay videos on YouTube after he was laid off from his job at a financial-services firm in 2010.
His wife, Genna Bain, posted the text of “Love Constant Beyond Death,” a poem by Francisco de Quevedo, in a tribute to him on Thursday.
Rest in Peace my Dearest Love
John @Totalbiscuit Bain
July 8, 1984 – May 24, 2018 pic.twitter.com/hg9ytHsItJ
— Genna Bain (@GennaBain) May 24, 2018
On Twitch,...
- 5/25/2018
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Four years after he first announced that he had been diagnosed with cancer, John Bain -- known online under the aliases TotalBiscuit and The Cynical Brit -- has passed away.
Bain, 33, was a major part of the online video community's gaming subculture, delivering YouTube videos and Twitch streams to more than 2.2 million fans. Instantly recognizable thanks to his deep, resonant voice, he also served as a commentator for e-sports events. He was particularly associated with games made by the developer Blizzard, including Starcraft II, Hearthstone, and World of Warcraft. After learning of his passing, Blizzard offered its condolences via Twitter.
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
Bain, 33, was a major part of the online video community's gaming subculture, delivering YouTube videos and Twitch streams to more than 2.2 million fans. Instantly recognizable thanks to his deep, resonant voice, he also served as a commentator for e-sports events. He was particularly associated with games made by the developer Blizzard, including Starcraft II, Hearthstone, and World of Warcraft. After learning of his passing, Blizzard offered its condolences via Twitter.
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
- 5/25/2018
- by Sam Gutelle
- Tubefilter.com
Today, the online gaming world learned some grave news concerning one of its most popular and beloved personalities. John Bain, a YouTube and Twitch star known online as TotalBiscuit, has revealed he has inoperable cancer in his liver.
Bain previously battled bowel cancer in 2014 but appeared to be in remission as of April 2015. Unfortunately, a recent Ct scan brought with a dreadful diagnosis, which Bain shared with his followers on Twitter. Here’s the full text of his TwitLonger post:
“Well, I don't know if there is really a right way to tell people this, so I guess here goes. The Ct did not come back negative. The cancer in the bowel is gone, but spots have appeared in my liver. They're not operable and there's no cure. Average life expectancy is 2-3 years, though there are outliers that live much longer. I'll be back on chemo in a few weeks,...
Bain previously battled bowel cancer in 2014 but appeared to be in remission as of April 2015. Unfortunately, a recent Ct scan brought with a dreadful diagnosis, which Bain shared with his followers on Twitter. Here’s the full text of his TwitLonger post:
“Well, I don't know if there is really a right way to tell people this, so I guess here goes. The Ct did not come back negative. The cancer in the bowel is gone, but spots have appeared in my liver. They're not operable and there's no cure. Average life expectancy is 2-3 years, though there are outliers that live much longer. I'll be back on chemo in a few weeks,...
- 10/15/2015
- by Sam Gutelle
- Tubefilter.com
Exclusive: The London-based sales agent has struck a Us and Canadian sale on the BAFTA-nominated war story ahead of next month’s North American premiere in Toronto.
Metro International head of sales Natalie Brenner has licensed Us and Canadian rights to Toronto-based Search Engine in a deal with president John Bain that will see the Canadian distributor make its first foray into the Us market, where it will release in conjunction with Honora Productions.
The film, until recently known as Kajaki. The True Story, will premiere in Toronto’s City To City section profiling cinema from London-based filmmakers.
Paul Katis directed Kilo Two Bravo, about a group of mostly British soldiers who become stranded in a minefield during a 2006 rescue mission in Afghanistan.
David Elliot, Mark Stanley, Scott Kyle, Benjamin O’Mahony, Bryan Parry, Liam Ainsworth, Andy Gibbins, John Doughty, Paul Luebke, Thomas Davison, Grant Kilburn, Robert Mitchell, Jon Paul Bell, Malachi Kirby and [link...
Metro International head of sales Natalie Brenner has licensed Us and Canadian rights to Toronto-based Search Engine in a deal with president John Bain that will see the Canadian distributor make its first foray into the Us market, where it will release in conjunction with Honora Productions.
The film, until recently known as Kajaki. The True Story, will premiere in Toronto’s City To City section profiling cinema from London-based filmmakers.
Paul Katis directed Kilo Two Bravo, about a group of mostly British soldiers who become stranded in a minefield during a 2006 rescue mission in Afghanistan.
David Elliot, Mark Stanley, Scott Kyle, Benjamin O’Mahony, Bryan Parry, Liam Ainsworth, Andy Gibbins, John Doughty, Paul Luebke, Thomas Davison, Grant Kilburn, Robert Mitchell, Jon Paul Bell, Malachi Kirby and [link...
- 8/18/2015
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Year: 2009
Directors: James Mann/Brandon Nicholas
Writers: James Mann
IMDb: link
Trailer: link
Review by: agentorange
Rating: 7.5 out of 10
Desert Son is a stylishly filmed, angsty coming-of-ager that feels a lot like Larry Clark riffing on the wilderness survival genre. That is to say it is a haunting look into the dark side of aimless adolescence that pulls no punches when examining how messed-up kids can be when drunk on a potent cocktail of confusion, raging hormones and ego. And with an odd little family / love triangle at its core, Desert Son even manages to ruminate on how the dysfunction we're brought up with becomes the baggage we carry around with us forever. Like the battered old suitcase Philip carries with him throughout the film, our past is an extension of who we are and contains all the bits and pieces that make up what we will become.
In fact,...
Directors: James Mann/Brandon Nicholas
Writers: James Mann
IMDb: link
Trailer: link
Review by: agentorange
Rating: 7.5 out of 10
Desert Son is a stylishly filmed, angsty coming-of-ager that feels a lot like Larry Clark riffing on the wilderness survival genre. That is to say it is a haunting look into the dark side of aimless adolescence that pulls no punches when examining how messed-up kids can be when drunk on a potent cocktail of confusion, raging hormones and ego. And with an odd little family / love triangle at its core, Desert Son even manages to ruminate on how the dysfunction we're brought up with becomes the baggage we carry around with us forever. Like the battered old suitcase Philip carries with him throughout the film, our past is an extension of who we are and contains all the bits and pieces that make up what we will become.
In fact,...
- 4/22/2010
- QuietEarth.us
Bloody Disgusting is announcing that Desert Son has a new poster which is thrilling. The trailer has dramatic tones as a young boy is left to die in an unknown desert. The heavy interplay of damaged characters also signals that Desert Son is a drama. There are thrilling elements that include home invasions, robbery, and survival. Visit the trailer for Desert Son and watch both the thrilling and dramatic tones of the film.
The tagline for Desert Son:
"Left for dead -- you fight for life."
The synopsis courtesy of Shoreline Entertainment:
"Phillip is abandoned in the desert by his stepfather. He is found unconscious days later by Lucy and Jack, two orphans who live in an abandoned mining town in the middle of nowhere. They bring Phillip back to health and quickly initiate him into their dangerous lifestyle. Together they embark on spree of increasingly risky and...
The tagline for Desert Son:
"Left for dead -- you fight for life."
The synopsis courtesy of Shoreline Entertainment:
"Phillip is abandoned in the desert by his stepfather. He is found unconscious days later by Lucy and Jack, two orphans who live in an abandoned mining town in the middle of nowhere. They bring Phillip back to health and quickly initiate him into their dangerous lifestyle. Together they embark on spree of increasingly risky and...
- 3/13/2010
- by Michael Ross Allen
- 28 Days Later Analysis
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