Netflix, CFC unveil Canada plans

US-based streamer Netflix and the Canadian Film Centre (CFC) have unveiled three schemes designed to support Canuck programming as part of the streamer’s controversial five-year production strategy in the country.

Netflix entered into the C$500m (US$400m) deal with the Minister of Canadian Heritage last year, agreeing to work with domestic producers, broadcasters and creators to produce original content.

The Canadian government billed the move as a boon for local producers, but critics have argued it is unfair to traditional operators as Netflix will pay no tax on its local original productions.

The schemes, which form part of the Netflix-CFC Global Project, are designed to “advance Canadian talent and opportunities in the international marketplace,” with three “accelerator” programmes being launched:

• The Calling Card Accelerator, which is aimed at expanding opportunities for new creators by helping them turn a feature film or TV series project into a produced proof of concept.
• The Project Development Accelerator, which offers “mid-level diverse creators… enhanced and tailored access to development support and inspired global perspectives.”
• The Marketplace Accelerator, which will attempt to help prepare creators to make an impact at markets/festivals and assist them with securing international attention and investment.

Slawko Klymkiw, CEO at the CFC, said the partnership “represents an incredible opportunity for the CFC to continue to be at the forefront of advancing and empowering Canadian voices and stories globally.”

He added: “This project will promote opportunities for our Canadian creators, who offer a diversity of perspectives and voices to connect with global audiences.”

Larry Tanz, VP of content acquisition at Netflix, added: “We’ve seen first-hand how well Canadian talent has captivated our members around the world and look forward to working with the CFC to continue to foster Canadian creatives.”

Prior to the five-year agreement, Netflix had already been developing originals in Canada, including the miniseries adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s Alias Grace, which it coproduced with broadcaster CBC and Halfire Entertainment.