Minister Copps Congratulates Filmmakers of Canadian Entries at 2002 Cannes International Film Festival
TORONTO, May 3, 2002 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps today offered her congratulations to Canadian filmmakers whose work will be screened at the Cannes International Film Festival, which runs from May 15 to 26."The Canadian films at Cannes this year are a testimony to the creativity and talent of the entire industry," said Minister Copps. "The filmmakers involved are among the most highly respected people in the business, not just in Canada, but around the world. I wish them luck."
Canadian entries include Spider, a co-production between Canada and the United Kingdom, directed by David Cronenberg, in the feature film category; and also The Stone of Folly, a film directed by Jesse Rosensweet, in the short film competition. The film Ararat, directed by Atom Egoyan, will be screened as a feature film out of competition.
"Last year, Atanarjuat (The Fast Runner) won the 2001 Caméra d'or in Cannes for the best first-time feature film by a director," noted Minister Copps. "It was a tremendous achievement; the first feature film ever produced in Inuktitut."
"All these films demonstrate the value of the programs we have put in place to ensure that Canadians have access to high quality films that tell Canadian stories," added Minister Copps.
The Canadian Television Fund and the newly created Canada Feature Film Fund play vital roles in stimulating the production of high quality Canadian films and television programs that reflect the country's diverse cultural experiences. In Canada last year, the total value of film and television production reached nearly $5 billion. Also, the foreign revenue collected by the Canadian production industry totalled $2.2 billion.
Information:
Kerry Edmonds
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
[ Media Room ]
