In a world where Netflix is finding itself getting the cold shoulder from film festivals (particularly the European events), it appears that the streaming service is still able to solidify some long-term partnerships. And the streamer’s newest deal involves one of the most prestigious film events in the world, the Toronto International Film Festival.
According to THR, Netflix and TIFF have agreed to a three-year deal that will see the streaming giant become an investor in TIFF’s year-round film industry program. Exact details aren’t known, but it’s expected that the money invested by Netflix will be funneled into programs such as the festival’s Talent Accelerator initiative, which subsidizes six female filmmakers and allows them to gain access to events and programs, including the TIFF Filmmaker Lab. The streaming service will also help finance three new professional development events for Canadian filmmakers.
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“Netflix’s agreement to support both the festival and TIFF’s year-round work with the Canadian film industry signals a meaningful commitment,” said TIFF co-heads Cameron Bailey and Joana Vicente, in a statement.
Netflix executive Scott Stuber said, “This investment will help TIFF increase representation in the industry, and expand opportunities for these filmmakers that will allow them to deepen their craft and advance their projects.”
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As mentioned, this deal comes at the end of a year that saw Netflix being effectively banned from competition at Cannes (due to the festival bowing to French laws and regulations), as well as folks at Venice being upset that the festival included offerings from the streaming service. So, while the festival news for Netflix has been checkered in 2019, this agreement with TIFF can be seen as a win.
