WATERLOO REGION, ON—Aug 22, 2007
Christie Returns as Official Digital Projection Sponsor at Toronto International Film Festival
Christie, a global leader in visual solutions for entertainment, business and industry, is the exclusive digital projection sponsor for the 32nd Toronto International Film Festival(r) (TIFF), the world’s largest public film festival. Staged September 6 – 15 throughout Toronto, TIFF is dedicated to spotlighting Canadian artists, as well as works from filmmakers around the globe. As part of its sponsorship, Christie will provide an array of digital projectors, including the renowned Christie CP2000 DLP Cinema® projector, the most installed and preferred Digital Cinema projector in the world.
“TIFF is a crucial part of the international cinematic landscape. As such, it strives to be a leader in the creative and cultural discovery of cinema, and continues its quest to put Canadian films and talent in the spotlight,” said Natalie Lue, Director of Operations and Theatres, TIFFG. “We are committed to innovation and excellence in our film programming, and the superior performance of Christie digital projectors ensures that the artistic vision comes through for the world-class filmmakers who participate.”
Lue noted that the popularity of the Festival continues to grow, with approximately 350 films being screened this year. “Our priority is to set an international standard that creates a transforming viewing experience for our audiences, and we rely on Christie to help define the standard for digital projection technology,” she said.
“The promise of Digital Cinema is being realized,” said Andrei Gravelle, Technical Manager, TIFFG. “The Festival is pleased to utilize state-of-the art Christie digital projectors to highlight established artists, as well as up-and-coming visionary filmmakers who are outside of the studio system. The accessibility of digital cinema is giving birth to a whole new world of talent and new ideas that will move, challenge and inspire us in exciting and different ways.”
A total of 10 Christie digital projectors will be deployed throughout the Festival for over 100 public, press and industry digital screenings – almost a third of the Festival’s entries. Among these, Christie CP2000 projectors will screen presentations at Varsity 8, Ryerson and Scotiabank Theatres. Additional Christie HD projectors will be used at Roy Thomson Hall for Gala screenings, the Visa Screening Room at the Elgin Theatre and the Cumberland, among other venues – all offering stunning, razor-sharp images for an exceptional viewing experience.
“Christie is a leading supporter of the arts, providing visual solutions for a wide variety of festivals and artists around the world,” remarked Craig Sholder, vice-president of Entertainment Solutions at Christie. “We value our long-term relationship with TIFF, which is committed to recognizing and showcasing cinematic excellence. As the acknowledged global leader in Digital Cinema, Christie is equally committed to delivering technology that allows emerging artists and veterans alike to shine on an international level.”
Politically engaged works and in-depth character studies infuse this year’s TIFF program, which includes works from high-profile directors such as Werner Herzog, Scott Hicks, Kevin Macdonald and Barbet Schroeder. Among this year’s unique offerings is “Real to Reel,” a program that will screen achievements in non-fiction cinema, and feature documentary works from around the globe that enlighten and entertain.