Nova Scotia Going to L.A.

Local filmmakers from Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador are heading to Hollywood to pitch projects, develop and strengthen relationships, and learn from some of the best in the business.

Film and Creative Industries Nova Scotia is partnering with the Newfoundland and Labrador Film Development Corp. and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency on the business development mission from June 7 – 13.

They will attend the annual Producer's Guild of America Produced By Conference to participate in panels, roundtables and networking events with top-level Hollywood professionals. Presenters include J.J. Abrams (Star Trek), Mark Burnett (Survivor) and Jerry Bruckheimer (Pirates of the Caribbean).

Participants will also attend workshops and meetings with producers, production companies, studios and networks to gain a better understanding of the Los Angeles market and what is required to successfully pitch projects.

"Providing emerging producers with exposure to the Los Angeles market is important for building a strong and sustainable industry in the province," said Graham Steele, Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism. "Attracting new investment is essential for creating jobs and increasing the impact of this sector on our economy."

"This is the fourth year this agency has led a business development mission to the Produced By Conference," said Lisa Bugden, president and CEO of Film and Creative Industries Nova Scotia. "Organizing the business development mission around the conference allows filmmakers to participate in professional development sessions and meet with key industry professionals, maximizing our impact in a key market."

Emerging and mid-level filmmakers competed to be selected then worked with a consultant to polish their pitching package and identify meeting targets. A Los Angeles-based matchmaker will help them approach and confirm meetings with targeted companies.

Nova Scotia filmmakers making the 2013 trip are:

• Luke Conrad, Cartoon Conrad Productions Inc.
• Jay Dahl, Black Dog Films Inc.
• Donna Davies, Ruby Tree Films
• Walter Forsyth, Gorgeous Mistake Productions
• Kevin Kincaid, Kingsberg Productions Inc.
• Jason Levangie, Shut Up and Colour Pictures Inc.
• Paul Rigg, Copernicus Studios Inc.
• Marc Tetreault, Shut Up and Colour Pictures Inc.
• Megan Wennberg, writer/filmmaker

Mr. Levangie stresses the importance of making new inroads and connections in the market.

"Los Angeles is the epicenter for film and television," said Mr. Levangie. "A regular presence for our company is critical in building our profile and securing international sales of our intellectual property."

Film and Creative Industries Nova Scotia is the lead development agency for the creative industries in the province. Providing a variety of loan and investment programs and services, the agency works to support the growth and development of Nova Scotia's creative enterprises.