Introducing the Canadian Cinema Roundtable: Your Front-Row Seat to Canada’s Film Powerhouses!
Get ready for an unfiltered, all-access pass to the heart of Canadian cinema! Canadian Cinema Roundtable, a dynamic new podcast series from Future of Film Showcase and Startwell Studios, brings together the brightest minds and boldest voices in the industry. Each episode gathers emerging and established filmmakers—from directors and production designers to editors and producers—for candid, one-hour roundtable discussions that dive deep into the art, craft, and challenges of filmmaking.
In every episode, creators share their journeys, insights, and the behind-the-scenes stories you won’t find anywhere else. Inspired by THR’s Hollywood Roundtable and Variety’s Actors on Actors, this series doesn’t just scratch the surface—it digs into the creative process, explores hard-won successes, and embraces the lessons learned along the way.
Whether you’re a cinephile, an industry insider, or just curious about the magic of movies, Canadian Cinema Roundtable offers a fresh, inspiring look at the talent shaping Canadian cinema today. Tune in and discover what drives these artists to create, adapt, and break new ground in storytelling!
Presented by
Behind-the-scenes
Episodes
Episode 1 - Emerging Directors Roundtable
Live November 22, 2024
Get inspired by the voices shaping the future of Canadian cinema! In our debut episode, FOFS alumni directors sit down to discuss the grit and passion behind indie filmmaking. They reveal the raw realities of starting out, from creative roadblocks to the search for motivation, and offer candid advice for emerging filmmakers looking to make their mark. This is an inside look at the hustle, resilience, and vision it takes to bring a story to life on the screen.
Featuring:
Maziyar Khatam
Anya Chirkova
Rebeca Ortiz
Andrea Nirmala Wadjanto
Rebeccah Love
Episode 2 - Cinematographers Roundtable
Live December 6, 2024
Step behind the lens with some of Canada’s most innovative Directors of Photography as they dive into the art and technical mastery of cinematography. Discover how they bring stories to life through visuals, find inspiration in unexpected places, and face the unique challenges of the craft. Whether you’re a budding cinematographer or simply a fan of cinematic beauty, this episode uncovers the secrets to capturing the perfect shot and creating unforgettable moments on film.
Featuring:
Dmitry Lopatin
Christina Ienna
Justin Black
Alice Stephens
Episode 3 - Rising Actors Roundtable Part 1
Being an actor means facing constant highs, lows, and everything in between. Join us for an honest conversation with emerging actors as they discuss handling rejection, the importance of community, and how they stay grounded while pursuing their dreams. This episode is a celebration of resilience and passion—essential listening for anyone interested in the emotional journey of acting.
Featuring:
Rebecca Kwan
Zaarin Bushra
Andrea Pavlovic
Rachel Kramer
Live December 20, 2024
Episode 4 - Programmers Roundtable
Live January 10, 2025
Ever wondered how films make it into festivals? This episode brings you face-to-face with Toronto-based film festival programmers who share the inside scoop on the film selection process. Discover what these experts look for, how trends are shaping programming decisions, and what sparks their excitement as they screen countless films. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this discussion is full of insights you won’t find anywhere else.
Featuring:
Ashleigh Rains (Canadian Film Fest)
Lu Linares (Inside Out)
Kelly Lui (Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival)
Marina Hanna (Reelworld Film Festival)
Zachary Goldkind (Future of Film Showcase)
Episode 5 - Rising Actors Roundtable Part 2
Live January 24, 2025
Meet the next wave of Canadian acting talent as they reveal what it really takes to bring characters to life. From the thrill and pressure of auditions to the defining moments that have shaped their careers, these actors offer a rare, behind-the-scenes look at their journeys. Hear firsthand about the ups, downs, and transformative experiences that make acting a true labor of love.
Featuring:
Ethan Hwang
Nadine Bhaba
Emily Stranges
Robert Bazzocchi
Episode 6 - Producers Roundtable
Live February 7, 2025
Meet the producers—the unsung heroes who keep film projects on track, no matter what! In this episode, producers share the real deal about managing the chaos, celebrating the victories, and navigating the setbacks. From funding hurdles to coordinating massive crews, they reveal the hidden challenges and joys of bringing a vision to life. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to produce a film, this episode sheds light on the determination, grit, and creativity required to make movie magic happen.
Featuring:
Malachi Ellis
Júlia Batista
Claire Desmarais
Brittany Lee-Mitchell
Wayne Burns
Presented by