Wednesday, June 16, 2010

CFTPA Evolves Into Canadian Media Production Association

The Canadian Film and Television Production Association (CFTPA), representing the interests of screen-based media companies engaged in the production/distribution of English-language TV programs, feature films and new media content in all regions of Canada, reports it is changing its name to the Canadian Media Production Association (CMPA) "...to better reflect the multi-screen world and the future of our industry..."

"Independent producers create high-quality Canadian content and are at the heart of the feature film, broadcasting and content distribution system," said Norm Bolen, President, Chief Executive Officer, CMPA.

"The global shift towards digital technology and new forms of distribution means we have to change with the times. The new name embraces the opportunities for our members to create new partnerships and expand into the international market place."


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, 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 appointed Tom Cox as its new Chair to lead the rebranding. Cox is managing partner of Alberta-based SEVEN24 Films.

"I’m delighted to be working with such a knowledgeable staff and Board of Directors to ensure that Canadian producers remain at the centre of our national cultural community and form a strong and sustainable part of Canada’s entrepreneurial sector," said Cox.

Cox executive produced CBC's "Heartland", CTV's "Mayerthorpe" and Global/BBC's "Burn Up". His feature co-producer credits include "Brokeback Mountain" and "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford".

"Tom knows independent producers must develop new business models to flourish in the creative economy", said John Barrack, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Legal Officer CMPA.

"Tom knows independent producers must develop. 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."