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A North Bay connection to the Toronto International Film Festival

Actively pressing hot-button issues of sexual politics, vulnerability and power relations on set.
toronto international film festival tiff shutterstock_84784777 2016
TIFF will have a North Bay flavour this year.

Among all the red carpets, star gazing and great movies will be a North Bay connection at the Toronto International film Festival (TIFF).

North Bay native Justin De Bernardi has gone from being the successful owner of VIEW Dance Challenge (a Canada wide dance competition) to a filming executive producer.

With his business associate, Kristen Maurice, De Bernardi has produced his first short film called "TMG_103 (rough cut)."

The world premiere will be at the Scotiabank Theatre on September 12 and 17.

"The five minute short film explores the delicate relationship between director and actress while negotiating the filming of a sex scene. Unfiltered and raw, the film has the illusion of being behind the scenes footage, giving the audience an unblinking look at the scenes that happen...behind the scenes. Actively pressing hot-button issues of sexual politics, vulnerability and power relations on set, the film is equally inspired by the tabloid exploits of Jian Ghomeshi and the philosophy of Laura Mulvey," says De Bernardi.

He grew up in North Bay, going to École Secondaire Catholique Algonquin before going off to university.

TMG_103 (rough cut) is De Bernardi's first film, and TIFF will be an important milestone.

"For us it's very rewarding and we're thankful. TIFF is one of the biggest festivals in the world so for us it's our calling card. It's the best kick start to our future life."

Directed and co-written by former TIFF shortcuts winner Walter Woodman, (rough cut) stars Sidney Leeder, who also serves as the film’s co-writer and producer, Shannon Kook, Shaun Benson and Dean Armstrong.

And producing a film in his hometown isn't out of the picture.

"That would be wonderful to bring business back there. It's a beautiful city and we're actually currently developing a feature film, so considering North Bay could be possible."


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Jeff Turl

About the Author: Jeff Turl

Jeff is a veteran of the news biz. He's spent a lengthy career in TV, radio, print and online, covering both news and sports. He enjoys free time riding motorcycles and spoiling grandchildren.
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