Talent time

RBC supports TIFF-run film lab to train a new generation of directors

RBC has been supporting up-and-coming filmmakers as part of its Emerging Artists Project, which awards grants via RBC’s partnerships with organizations committed to encouraging exceptional young talent in all art forms.

This year’s RBC Emerging Filmmakers Competition marks the event’s third anniversary. RBC is also a lead supporter of Talent Lab, an intensive four-day program supported by the Toronto International Film Festival, which provides young filmmakers with an opportunity to learn from the world’s best film artists.

The five finalists in the competition have been narrowed down from the 17 Canadian and international filmmakers who attended Talent Lab last year. Each participant was given $500 and free rein to create a five-minute film with the common theme “Time.” Participation from members of the public was obtained via online voting for their favourite films.

The winners will be announced on Sept. 5, 2012, at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. The firstprize winner will receive $15,000, the runner-up $10,000, and the fan favourite $5,000.

The RBC–TIFF collaboration has been vital to the festival, notes Piers Handling, TIFF’s director and CEO: “RBC has an amazing role in supporting the arts in Canada. They have been a huge supporter of emerging Canadian talent and they’re committed to fostering the growth and development of this next generation of talent, which is fantastic.”

RBC is thrilled to help Canadian filmmakers make their way onto the big screen in an ongoing way, says Jennifer Tory, RBC’s regional president of the Greater Toronto Region.

“For many years, we have provided opportunities for up-and-coming artists to develop their skills and showcase their talents to a larger audience,” she says.

For more information on the competition, visit rbc.com/emergingartists or tiff.net/industry/programmes/emergingfilmmakers.