The Whistler Film Festival 2024’s Content Summit is packed with thought-provoking panel discussions, interactive master classes, and networking opportunities, allowing attendees to forge meaningful connections and gain valuable knowledge from industry leaders.
With over 25 sessions, including keynotes, masterclasses, panels, roundtables, and 1:1 Market Meetings, there’s something for everyone. Topics include Indigenous languages and the global marketplace, showrunning for episodic series, big data and audience development, documentary filmmaking, casting, and music combined with unparalleled access to streamers, broadcasters, distributors, and key decision-makers. Attendees will have the chance to connect with forward thinkers, innovators, and decision-makers across more than 20 sessions.
The Content Summit, presented in partnership with Telefilm Canada and Creative BC, takes place in Whistler, B.C. in-person from December 4-7 and online from December 10-12. Explore the highlighted panel discussions, workshops and roundtable sessions below:
A thought-provoking conversation that offers a panoramic perspective on the ever-evolving content landscape. From the rise of streaming platforms and the seismic shifts in traditional broadcasting to the impact of social media, user-generated content, and emerging technologies like virtual and augmented reality, View From The Top delves deep into the forces driving change.
Moderated by Penn Road Advisors principal Beth Janson, the panel lineup includes Laura Michalchyshyn, chief creative officer and executive producer for Blue Ant Media; independent consultant Stéphane Cardin; and Eagle Vision’s co-owner and executive producer Kyle Irving.
Power of Non-Fiction: A Deep Dive Into Documentary Filmmaking
Documentary filmmakers capture real-world stories that inform, inspire, and spark conversation. This panel will explore the evolving landscape of documentary filmmaking, from funding and production to distribution and audience engagement. Leading documentary filmmakers share their experiences, challenges, and insights into creating impactful films that resonate with viewers on a global scale.
Panelists include filmmaker Ed Barreveld of Storyline Entertainment; filmmaker Maria Markina; Documentary Organization of Canada (DOC) executive director Sarah Spring; Jessica Hallenbeck, owner/producer of Lantern Films; and Oli Harbottle, chief content officer for Dogwoof.
Crafting The Vision: The Art Of Show Running
Dive into the world of showrunning with our panel of leading showrunners. This insightful session will explore the creative and operational aspects of shaping and guiding film and television projects. Panelists discuss their approaches to developing storylines, managing writers’ rooms, and bringing creative visions to life on screen. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge about the challenges and rewards of showrunning, and learn how building rapport with these industry leaders can lead to potential collaborations and career advancements.
Moderated by Nimisha Mukerji, directors advisory committee chair for DGC-BC, the showrunner panelists include: Susin Nielsen (“Family Law“); Amber Sekowan-Daniels (“Don’t Even”, “Acting Good”); Dennis Heaton (“The Order”, “The Imperfects”); Shane Belcourt (AMPLIFY, STONE CHILD); and Carla Kettner (“Alert – Missing Persons Unit”).
Tax Credit Triad – Key Insights From CRA, CAVCO and Creative BC
Creative BC and CAVCO join the Canada Revenue Agency to explain how federal and provincial film and media tax credits support Canada’s creative industry. Find out who can apply for the credits, how to apply, how to avoid common mistakes, and more. Don’t miss this special opportunity to have your questions answered in person. Register for this presentation and the answers to these questions will be revealed.
Writing Workshop: Creating Memorable Characters for Series with Ruth Atkinson
Presented by story editor and WFF Screenwriters Lab facilitator Ruth Atkinson, this workshop will elevate participants’ process and come away with tangible tools to create authentic, unique and memorable characters. Sponsored and subsidized by the Canada Media Fund, the workshop is open to the public (not included in the industry pass) and requires a separate ticket.
Ruth Atkinson
Roundtable Session – Creative BC
Discover Creative BC and its many funding programs, travel support, delegation funding, presence at international markets for motion picture professionals in this session. Mathew Parry, Manager, Creative Industry Programs, Creative BC will be there to answer your questions.
Learn about the full lineup and secure your spots on whistlerfilmfestival.com.
