r/torontofilmindustry

What I'm seeing is three main paths:

1. Going to a technical film school and learning hands-on skills (ex: Vancouver film school)

2. Going into a film studies or English degree and learning the theory and studying films.

3. Doing your own thing, making movies with friends and building a portfolio.

And then after doing one of these paths trying to break into the film industry in Canada, and work on a film. (Their being only 3 paths is a bit of an oversimplification so feel free to mention any other ways to get into the film industry)

I know the film industry in Canada is relatively small compared to the US but I'm interested in hearing from Canadian filmmakers (working on movies, music videos, documentaries, freelance, etc...). Which path you took and or recommend for someone in their 1st year of university looking to switch paths into filmmaking?

Edit: thanks for the responses, they have been helpful!

Hey Everyone, We are working on a NON-UNION Commercial. The shoot date is Thur, May 7th OR Fri, May 8th. Exact shoot date TBD. Talent must be available both days. The location is Toronto. Here are the specs: M/F, 18-55 years old. The rate is $300. Talent will be needed 10 hours, plus a 1 hour lunch, overtime if applicable. Please email info@bcotalent.com if you are available with “Project SG” in the subject line. Please include your full name, headshot, height, weight and phone number in the email. We will contact anyone that is booked. We take 15% commission on all jobs worked. Thank you!

I’m an aspiring composer looking to build my portfolio within the Toronto indie scene. I am offering my services free of charge for short films and student projects in exchange for IMDb credit and the right to use the footage in my demo reel.

My sonic palette ranges from dark, synth heavy atmospheres and cinematic strings to authentic Hard Rock and Metal scoring. My goal is always to serve the narrative, whether that's through a haunting orchestral texture or a driving, heavy riff. If you have a rough cut or a script in progress, I’d love to help bring your vision to life.

Hi guys, looking for advice on how many looks one needs, just wanting to hear from some other actors how many looks you recommend getting. I’ve landed on Hayley Andoff for headshots (really like her work)!

Also do you think in studio make up and hair is worth it, I was planning on selecting that but heard from some people that its not worth it and to do your own.

These are my first headshots and I’m younger with a natural-ish dyed colour so I expect I’ll have to refresh them more often, so I want to be mindful before spending :)

Hi everyone,
I’m looking for new representation in Toronto and All Heart Talent is on my radar. I see they have a strong Vancouver base but are active here too.

Has anyone in Canada signed with them for film/TV principal roles? I'm curious if they have solid relationships with Toronto casting directors and if they work on building long term careers internationally or if they are primarily focused on the BC market. Any info on their communication style or audition frequency, or even how they are as an agency for principals would be great. Thanks!

I know there are quite few talent agencies for background work in Toronto and I came across FC Talent , has anyone worked or heard of them?

Get your free tickets here and join us for a fun evening !

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/may-toronto-film-and-tv-industry-networking-social-tickets-1989181374037

https://preview.redd.it/7gh03oqrcd0h1.jpg?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6d713900aaff66f84b4ab75ef213849037667986

I just moved to Montreal, but it is looking like this wasn't the best decision legally or financially. Someone told me that films look for Ontario residents for tax benefits. Is this true? If so, I might need to move to Toronto if Quebec residency becomes a barrier.