All posts by Greg David

Prior to becoming a television critic and owner of TV, Eh?, Greg David was a critic for TV Guide Canada, the country's most trusted source for TV news. He has interviewed television actors, actresses and behind-the-scenes folks from hundreds of television series from Canada, the U.S. and internationally. He is a podcaster, public speaker, weekly radio guest and educator, and past member of the Television Critics Association.
Reality, Lifestyle & Documentary

Jennifer Podemski’s Future History premieres November 13th on APTN

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From a media release:

Jennifer Podemski, President of Redcloud Studios Inc. is pleased to announce that Future History, a doc series (13 x .30) celebrating Indigenous knowledge reclamation, will premiere November 13th at 7:30 pm ET exclusively on APTN East & HD and 7:30 pm MT on APTN West.

Future History follows two passionate, and polar opposite, Anishinaabe (Ojibway) hosts Sarain Fox and Kris Nahrgang as they venture into their community to gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous Knowledge and the movement of cultural revitalization. For generations across North America, Indigenous People have been reeling from the devastating effects of colonialism that has left children, language, ceremony and culture at risk. But today, a movement of reclamation and revitalization is being led by Indigenous People who are harnessing Indigenous Knowledge as a way to shift the colonial paradigm and build a brighter future for the next generation. From Arts and Science to the Justice System, the resurgence of Indigenous Knowledge is stronger than ever. Future History is a journey of discovery through an Indigenous lens, a journey that will inspire and enlighten all audiences.

Future History is produced by Geoff Ewart and Jennifer Podemski. Executive Producers are Janice Dawe and Kathy Avrich-Johnson of Bizable Media. Directed by Jennifer Podemski. Series made possible by the generous support of Canada Media Fund (CMF), Rogers Documentary Fund and APTN

Jennifer Podemski has been acting since she was a teen. Her career blossomed when she landed the role of Pique in The Diviners and then a starring role in Bruce McDonald’s Dance Me Outside. Of mixed First Nations and Israeli descent, she soon noticed the lack of First Nations people writing, producing and directing screened entertainment. At 25, she opened Big Soul Productions with Laura Milliken, which produced three seasons of the award-winning dramatic television series Mocassin Flats. In 2005, Podemski branched out on her own and founded Redcloud Studios Inc, an independent production company dedicated to pushing forward Indigenous narratives across all platforms. Her work as a producer also includes the paranormal documentary series The Other Side, The Indspire Awards, and the award-winning, critically acclaimed feature film Empire of Dirt for which Jennifer was nominated for a 2015 Canadian Screen Award for both supporting actress and producer. She has maintained a successful career as an actor with roles in Degrassi: TNG, The Rez (Gemini nomination), Republic of Doyle, Take This Waltz, Jimmy P., Blackstone, Sensitive Skin, FireSong, Hard Rock Medical and the upcoming fourth season of Cardinal on CTV and Hulu.

Kris Nahrgang is Mississauga (Ojibway) with Treaty Status held at Curve Lake. A multi-disciplinary artist working in wood, stone and traditional oil mediums, Kris’s work can be found in numerous private and corporate collection including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, singer Anne Murray, comedian Bill Cosby, singer Keech Rainwater (of Lonestar), Nik Antropov (Atlanta Thrashers), Brian Skinner (Phoenix Suns). Kris is an archeologist by training who has advocated on behalf of First Nations across Ontario for over 20 years. An experienced diver, Kris began an undergraduate degree in anthropology at Trent University, and has worked in a close relationship with underwater archaeologists at Parks Canada, mainly along the Trent Severn. Kris has attempted to establish a cultural heritage/archaeological research and curatorial facility that will serve the needs of a large group of the smaller southern Ontario native communities. He served as a member of the advisory committee struck by the Ministry of Culture to contribute to the development of new Stage 1-4 archaeological assessment technical guidelines. Recently Kris was commissioned by the Canadian National Exhibition to produce a 36’ UNITY POLE (Totem). The Pole was unveiled at the CNE in August of 2017, receiving national and international acclaim from both the public and media.

Of Anishinaabe lineage, Sarain Fox is a multi-disciplinary performer and passionate spokesperson for her community and culture. Sarain studied at the Canadian Children’s Dance Theatre, the Quinte Ballet School and the Alvin Ailey Bachelor of Fine Arts Program in New York City. She has performed at The Canada Dance Festival 2008, The Barrie Jazz and Blues Festival VIII, the 2002, 2007 and 2012 Aboriginal Achievement Awards, and two summers with the Ajkun Ballet Theatre Company in New York City. As a member of Kahawaii Dance theatre, Sarain has attended three indigenous dance residencies at The Banff Centre, which allowed her to work with Neil Iremia of Black Grace and Javier Dezule of Dezule dance. Sarain is currently the newest member of Untitled Collective; a NYC based Australian aboriginal modern dance collective. On and off the dance floor, this stellar entity of artistic expulsion is truly always on her toes. Other endeavors for Sarain include the debut of her first play entitled Ashes which appeared at the Weesageechak Festival in Toronto and most recently; Sarain completed The New York Film Academy’s, acting for film program. Sarain is currently the host of RISE on VICE Canada.

Redcloud Studios Inc. is an independent production company owned and operated by award winning actor and producer, Jennifer Podemski. Redcloud Studios is dedicated to strengthening aboriginal visibility in the film and television industry, both behind the scenes and in front of the camera. Jennifer has traveled to over 2,000 Native communities throughout Canada and the US, using her media empowerment module to encourage youth to use the medium to speak out and effect change. Whether it’s mainstream drama, provocative documentary, intensive training or live theatre, Redcloud Studios is committed to breaking down barriers and paving the way for the future generation of media makers.

APTN launched in 1999 as the first national Indigenous broadcaster in the world, creating a window into the remarkably diverse mosaic of Indigenous Peoples. A respected non-profit, charitable broadcaster and the only one of its kind in North America. Sharing our stories of authenticity in English, French and a variety of Indigenous languages, to approximately 11 million Canadian TV subscribers. With over 80% Canadian content, APTN connects with its audience through genuine, inspiring, and engaging entertainment through multiple platforms.

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Featured, Frankie Drake Mysteries

Preview: Frankie Drake Mysteries explores the civil rights movement

Frankie Drake Mysteries‘ Monday night CBC partner, Murdoch Mysteries, explored racism directed at Greek immigrants in the city circa 1906. This week’s newest instalment of Frankie Drake Mysteries did the same by delving into the civil rights movement in this country in the 1920s.

Here’s what the CBC has revealed as an episode synopsis for “Emancipation Day,” written by Andrew Burrows-Trotman and directed by Ruba Nadda:

When donations are taken from a coloured girls’ orphanage, civil rights hero Marcus Garvey (Ryan Allen) hires the team to catch the thief and find the cash.

And, as always, a few more facts I gleaned after watching a screener.

Do some research on Marcus Garvey
Garvey is a fascinating figure and well worth you doing more digging into. And yes, he did really visit Toronto, though a little later in real life than the Frankie Drake timeline. Every August 17 is celebrated in Toronto as Marcus Garvey Day.

Trudy sings
This isn’t the first time Chantel Riley has gotten to show off her singing skills on Frankie Drake and I’m sure it won’t be the last. If you want to hear more of her music, search for Riley on your favourite music platform.

Karen Robinson stops by
Yes, you already guessed it from the above image. Mildred Clarke and her side-eye are in full effect on Monday night and she plays a key part in the main storyline. Also, look for 19-2‘s Richard Chevolleau and Defiance‘s Dewshane Williams in guest roles.

Frankie Drake Mysteries airs Mondays at 9 p.m. on CBC.

Images courtesy of CBC.

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Featured, Reality, Lifestyle & Documentary

Teddy Wilson climbs aboard Season 2 of Mighty Trains

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You can’t fake enthusiasm. And Teddy Wilson oozes it when he’s talking about Season 2 of Mighty Trains.

Returning this Sunday at 7 p.m ET/4 p.m. PT on Discovery, the world traveller and unabashed train fan once again rides the rails spotlighting the machinery, people who keep them running and those who climb aboard to enjoy them around the world. The journey begins on a train I’ve had on my bucket list for years: the Rocky Mountaineer. This luxury line boasts 16-cylinder locomotives that winds the train through spectacular mountains on the way from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper, Alberta.

“Whether you’re a hardcore train fan or even just a travel fan or a Canadian you’re already familiar with the Rocky Mountaineer,” Wilson says. “It is a train that’s famous the world over. There is the incredible scenery, but the train itself is kind of a feat of engineering and design with these incredible double-decker cars that have panoramic windows and state-of-the-art tinting technology. It’s just awe-inspiring.”

The Rocky Mountaineer

I’d be happy if the Mighty Trains folks just pointed their cameras out the windows to show the scenery this and other trains offer, but they go the extra mile, not only pulling back the curtain on the logistics and tech required to keep the trains rolling but the people who ride and work on them too. It adds a personal feel to each one-hour episode. In particular, Wilson explores how the railway track the Rocky Mountaineer rides on was laid in the area over 100 years ago and the way modern technology and science is being used to ensure animals don’t stray onto the tracks when it or freight trains are on them.

Mighty Trains leaves Canada in the coming weeks. Among the locations is Ecuador to experience the Tren Crucero, a train that takes passengers on a four-day excursion using switchback technology to climb from the coast into the Andes mountains; Sweden to spotlight Hector Rail’s lumber train; two trains in New Zealand in the Northern Explorer and the TranzAlpine; and India’s Maharajas’ Express, voted “The World’s Leading Luxury Train” three years in a row, which traces an eight-day route from Delhi to Mumbai. How did it rank on Wilson’s list?

“It wasn’t just a highlight for me in terms of Mighty Trains but, honestly, a life highlight,” Wilson says. “Getting to go to India and ride this luxurious train. They offer all of these off-train excursions that we go on as well. That was incredible.”

And, there are more Mighty Trains on the way. A third season is currently in production.

“We’re three episodes [into production] so far and have covered three very different corners of the world,” he teases. “It’s taking us all over.”

Mighty Trains airs Sundays at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on Discovery.

Images courtesy of Bell Media.

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Featured

Comments and queries for the week of October 12

On Murdoch Mysteries, I reckon that George Crabtree should have gotten married instead of getting dumped all the time. And all the girls he has been dating should wake up themselves because he is the sweetest and the on the show. —Suzanne

A small detail that perhaps most people would not notice: just like in Julia and William’s wedding, the wedding march was all wrong. When the bride goes down the isle it should be “Here comes the Bride” and not Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March” that is played at the end of the ceremony. If there is ever another wedding of importance, it should be corrected. Detail, yes but it is important to get such details right. —Noele

I truly did love all the costumes but the oly thing I have some reservations about is that I find Dr. Ogden’s apparel has rather been on the darker side, especially the one at the wedding. It kind of stunned me actually. It almost looked as though she was planning to attend a funeral instead. What it did was made us think that she was still mourning her miscarriage even though her sense of being is more hopeful and happy. Just an opinion, I guess. —Liz

Got a question or comment about Canadian TV? Email greg.david@tv-eh.com or via Twitter @tv_eh.

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Industry News

Blue Ant Media acquires Toronto-based Saloon Media as part of ongoing production expansion in North America

From a media release:

Blue Ant Media, an international content producer, distributor and channel operator, announced today its acquisition of Saloon Media, a Toronto-based production company specializing in globally relevant factual television. Saloon Media’s Michael Kot (CEO), Steve Gamester (Executive Producer), Paul Kilback (Executive Producer) and Betty Orr (Head of Production) will join the Blue Ant Media’s Global Production unit, which includes NHNZ (New Zealand), Beach House Pictures (Singapore), Antenna Pictures (London), Blue Ant Digital Studios (Los Angeles), Look Mom! Productions (Toronto) and Northern Pictures (Sydney). The purchase is a key step in the expansion of Blue Ant Media’s North American production business, which will see the media company rapidly expanding its original content business in the Canadian and US markets. The news arrives on the heels of yesterday’s senior executive appointments to Blue Ant Media’s Global Production unit in Canada and in the U.S.

Saloon Media, based in Toronto (Canada) and launched in 2013, is a leading factual television and digital content producer. Its recent credits include the CSA-nominated series Mummies Alive for HISTORY (Canada), Smithsonian Channel (U.S.) and Yesterday (UK); the 10-part broadcast and web series Tornado Hunters for CMT; the long-running returning series See No Evil, co-produced with the UK’s Arrow Media for DISCOVERY ID US; the eight-part series, Hunting Nazi Treasure for HISTORY (Canada), American Heroes Channel (U.S.) and More4 (UK); and international service work for several series and specials including The Kennedys, a six-part CNN mini-series in partnership with Raw TV in the UK.

Prior to launching Saloon Media, Michael Kot served as Senior Vice-President Factual for eOne, overseeing and executive-producing original factual programming for the company’s television group and Vice-President Original Factual Content for Canwest channels, including Global Television, HISTORY, Mystery, National Geographic Canada and IFC. Kot was also responsible for leading programming, acquisitions and the general operations of BBC Canada.

Steve Gamester has worked as a broadcaster, development executive and series show runner. His recent productions include Hunting Nazi Treasure, Mummies Alive, Perfect Storms, Miracles Decoded and Museum Secrets, all multi-part series that have broadcast around the world. He is currently producing 9/11 Kids, which examines the hidden impacts of 9/11 on American society. From 2005 to 2009, he was a Production Executive of Original Programming at Canwest and Alliance Atlantis, and oversaw more than 300 hours of programming for HISTORY, National Geographic, Showcase and Global Television. Gamester’s productions have been nominated for over 20 Canadian Screen Awards.

Paul Kilback is a multi-award-winning Series Producer, Director and Editor with over 20 years of experience filming and editing documentaries. He has produced and/or directed scores of television projects including: Wild Things with Dominic Monaghan, Greatest Tank Battles, Museum Secrets and Hunting Nazi Treasure. More recently, he completed the critically acclaimed Tornado Hunters series and is currently putting the finishing touches on a soon-to-be-released, four-part true crime special.

Betty Orr, Head of Production, has over 20 years of television and film production experience, ranging from producing award-winning television series such as Kids in the Hall to her critically acclaimed feature film, CUBE. Prior to joining Saloon when it launched in 2013, Orr worked with Entertainment One, Cineflix, Decode Entertainment (DHX Media), Jim Henson Productions and CBC on various television projects, including young adult scripted comedies, docudrama series, documentaries and Movie of the Weeks.

Sam Sniderman, EVP, Global Production, Blue Ant Media oversees the production, finance and business affairs teams at Blue Ant Media, which include Saloon Media (Toronto), NHNZ (New Zealand), Beach House Pictures (Singapore), Antenna Pictures (London), Blue Ant Digital Studios (Los Angeles), Look Mom! Productions (Toronto) and Northern Pictures (Sydney). Sniderman is formerly the Global Chief Operating Officer and MD, Film and Entertainment at Pulse Films (a Vice Media company). In these roles, he was responsible for the commercial performance of Pulse’s TV, film and branded content output and helped to guide Pulse through rapid growth, including scripted and unscripted commissions from Channel 4, Sky Atlantic and ITV. He also spearheaded the financing and distribution of award-winning theatrical feature films like 20,000 Days on Earth (Nick Cave), Who Is Dayani Cristal (Gael García Bernal) and Shut Up and Play the Hits (LCD Soundsystem).

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