Whistler Film Festival 2024 Unveils Participants for Screenwriters Lab in Canada
The Whistler Film Festival (WFF) has revealed the names of six Canadian screenwriters selected for its 2024 Screenwriters Lab, a highlight of the festival’s Talent Programs. The initiative, supported by Telefilm Canada, Creative BC, and Netflix, focuses on amplifying the voices of Canadian writers in the film industry.
The lab participants for 2024 include Brianna Russell from Newfoundland with her script "Fairyland"; Brishkay Ahmed of British Columbia, presenting "Sama"; Jade Tremblay also from British Columbia with "Two Types of People"; Kyle D’Odorico, introducing "Strangers in Our Skin"; Kenny Welsh with "A Storm"; and Jason Filiatrault from Alberta, who brings "Now, I Am a Bear" to the lab.
Each writer will participate in a series of individual and group sessions, aimed at refining their scripts and preparing them for the market, under the guidance of experienced mentors and industry advisors. Notable mentors this year include Ruth Atkinson, a script consultant from the USA, Dennis Foon, a celebrated screenwriter and novelist from BC, and Tarique Qayumi, an acclaimed writer and director.
Angela Heck, the Executive Director of the Whistler Film Festival Society, expressed her enthusiasm about the program: “The Screenwriters Lab is one of our core Talent Programs and we are thrilled to welcome this latest cohort of gifted writers. The success of our programs is evident in the productions and careers that have been developed through this program, and we’re tremendously proud of the alumni who have gone on to shine in Canada’s industry.”
The lab aims not only to enhance the technical skills of the participants but also to provide them with the necessary industry connections to propel their projects forward. It has been a critical stepping stone for many past participants, who have gone on to achieve significant success and recognition within the global screen industry.
This year's program underscores WFF’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering the next generation of Canadian storytellers, ensuring they receive the support and opportunities needed to succeed in the competitive landscape of international cinema.