As a Canadian, if you enjoy Netflix’s original programming, then you might be really happy to hear that Minister of Canadian Heritage and Netflix have announced an agreement that will see Netflix investing at least half a billion (Canadian) dollars in original Canadian productions over the next five years and part of that agreement will include creating a new entity.
“Fans around the world are already falling in love with Netflix originals produced in Canada. Today’s announcement affirms there’s more to come as Netflix launches Netflix Canada, our permanent production presence in Canada. We look forward to continuing our work with Canadian talent, producers, broadcasters and other local partners to create Netflix originals in Canada for many years to come,” says Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer, Netflix.
In addition to establishing a permanent multi-purpose film and TV production presence in Canada, something the company has never done outside of the United States, the agreement also includes Netflix ensuring the original Canadian productions will not only be available to Canadian Netflix subscribers but across Netflix’s global platform.
Both Official Languages
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage says, “This agreement – the first of its kind in the world – will ensure the investment of more than $500 million in original production in Canada in both official languages. It signals a meaningful partnership in supporting Canadian creators, producers and Canadian creative work, and in bringing that work to millions of viewers around the world.”
Netflix’s support for French language content, according to the release will be done through a market development strategy for Canada. That investment, to the tune of $25 million CAD, will include activities such as “pitch days” for producers, recruitment events and other promotional and market development activities.
Joly adds, “The Government of Canada is committed to growing our creative industries with new investments that create opportunities for creators and producers across the country to make great content that stands out.”
Netflix’s huge investment in Canada with the creation of the Canadian entity truly shows recognition for not only Canada’s creative talent but also its strong track record in creating films and tv shows.
Kudos to Canadian producers, and the same to Canadian Heritage and Netflix.
With that said, $500M+ is a big chunk of change. The big question in my mind and what will be interesting to see is how the monies will be allocated. Will so much be earmarked for each province? And how easy will it be for some of the smaller indie producers across the country to get access to the funds
Also published at Canoe Tech Blog Sun Media/ Postmedia
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