Winnipeg’s film scene has gained recognition on the international stage, thanks to the success of local filmmaker Matthew Rankin at the Cannes Film Festival.
Rankin’s film, “The Twentieth Century,” has been selected to compete in the prestigious Directors’ Fortnight category at the festival, which is known for showcasing innovative and unconventional films.
For Rankin, representing Winnipeg’s anti-mainstream film scene at Cannes is a proud moment. He believes that the city’s unique and diverse artistic community has played a significant role in shaping his creative vision.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to showcase my work alongside some of the most talented and boundary-pushing filmmakers in the world,” Rankin said in an interview with CTV News.
“The Twentieth Century” is a satirical take on the life of former Canadian Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King. The film has already received critical acclaim, winning the Best Canadian First Feature Film award at the Toronto International Film Festival last year.
Rankin’s success at Cannes is a testament to the thriving film industry in Winnipeg, which has been gaining momentum in recent years. The city has become a hub for independent and alternative filmmakers, with its supportive community and affordable production costs.
Winnipeg Film Group’s executive director, Greg Klymkiw, believes that Rankin’s achievement will bring more attention to the city’s film scene and attract more filmmakers to the area.
“Matthew’s success at Cannes is a huge win for Winnipeg’s film community. It shows that we have the talent and resources to compete on a global scale,” Klymkiw said.
Rankin’s film is not the only one representing Winnipeg at Cannes this year. “Night Raiders,” a sci-fi thriller directed by Danis Goulet, will also be screened at the festival.
With two films from Winnipeg being showcased at Cannes, it is clear that the city’s film scene is making a mark in the international film industry. As Rankin’s film competes for the prestigious Camera d’Or award, all eyes will be on Winnipeg, and its growing reputation as a hub for innovative and unconventional filmmaking.
