BANFF – The Canadian Film and Television Production Association announced today it is now the Canadian Media Production Association (CMPA).
The change was made “to better reflect the multi-screen world and the future of our industry,” according to the press release.
“The global shift towards digital technology and new forms of distribution means we have to change with the times,” said Norm Bolen, president and CEO. “The new name embraces the opportunities for our members to create new partnerships and expand into the international market place.”
The new name also adheres to a tradition within the organization to update itself as technology advances. Founded in 1948, the Association was originally known as the Association of Motion Picture Producers and Laboratories of Canada. In 1974, it changed its name to the Canadian Film and Television Association. And in 1990, it merged with the Association of Canadian Film and Television Producers to form the Canadian Film and Television Production Association.
The board of the CMPA has also appointed Tom Cox as its new chair to lead the rebranding. Cox is managing partner of Seven24 Films, based in Alberta. His career spans 25 years; creating, developing, and producing dramatic features, television series and movies which have earned over 100 awards and nominations.
His recent EP credits include Heartland for CBC, Mayerthorpe for CTV and Burn Up for BBC and Global. His co-producer credits include Brokeback Mountain and The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford.
“Tom not only talks the talk, he walks the walk,” added John Barrack, COO and chief legal officer, CMPA. “Tom knows independent producers must develop new business models to flourish in the creative economy. Seven24 and Toronto-based marblemedia have recently joined forces to create Distribution360 (D360), a forward-thinking distribution company focused on the full monetization of television and interactive content across traditional and emerging global platforms. That’s the kind of innovation we need to bring Canada to the world.”
The CMPA also thanked outgoing Chair, Sandra Cunningham, who served for three years.
“Sandra’s wealth of experience in the feature film industry, her poise and her passion for Canadian stories made her a great leader for the Association,” says Bolen. “We wish her and her company, Strada Films, all the best in the future.”
