TV loves the comeback story, as does the Banff World Media Festival. For its 43rd edition, it will return to the Canadian Rockies.
There will be a full program of keynotes, masterclasses and prizes (according to rigorously planned measures that include masks and outdoor meeting areas with firearms). CEO Jen Kuzmik spoke THR On how to launch a post-pandemic event with glitz and glam, tearing up trophy speeches and COVID-19 vaccination certifications.
Banff finally returns to personal format after two years online: more work shifts to familiar formats, or less?
There is no more work. Our team was just as busy. There are new and important things to consider this year, compared to previous years, specifically to ensure the event is safe and well-organized given the new demands of the pandemic. But we’re all very excited that we’ve come back to a personal festival and everything is in order.
Will you have masks, vaccination certificate and other care to ensure a safe festival?
All this time, it’s been a challenge to ensure we’re doing the right thing, meeting needs and ready for any occasion. Our emergency planning continues. We have planned a lot to ensure this festival ends without a hitch. However, if there is any problem, we are ready. We request masks in high traffic areas and session rooms. We demand that all delegates be fully vaccinated. This is a commitment we made some time ago and we are keeping to it. We will have packed dishes. For all comfort levels, you can participate in events. If you are very informed and concerned, you can keep your mask on, use outdoor meeting places and other protocols and feel comfortable.
Jenny Kuzmik
Courtesy of Helen Tans
What new features were added this year?
You’ll notice a lot of new things, especially if you haven’t been in banff for many years. Part of what we do is an add-on, but 100% it’s a response to what’s needed for a modern event these days, post-pandemic. We have significant outdoor meeting space. Yes, the mountain weather is a little unpredictable, but we have unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop and outdoor fireplaces with chairs and blankets. Nobody will object. The barbecue is back. You will also see more marks. We had significant interest from international media companies. Talk about the weather.
Is programming a mix of old and new digital platform execs if it leans more towards streaming and other new media?
This is an absolute mix. Even the “old media” companies that are well represented on banff are essentially new media players because they have completely reinvented themselves by launching new platforms. If the company is really old media, it probably isn’t anymore. We have Bella Bajaria, head of Netflix Global Television, who has had an incredible track record in the pandemic. Then there’s David Lind, CEO of Participants, known for considering social issues as a key driver. For Banff, this has always been more than business. It was about the impact of business on society, the planet and public policy. The opening conference will be attended by Dr. Ashish K. Jha and [Lionsgate founder] Frank Giustra talks about the power and responsibility of the media industry in fighting disinformation.
How is representation expanded?
We bring new voices to the festival through our grant programs such as Banff Spark, which target women-owned media companies to increase their scale and influence. This year we started the Indigenous Screen Summit. We did it virtually, but this is the first time in person. And we have 15 indigenous manufacturers for Canadian and international buyers to attract and implement these projects.
Did it help Banff that despite the mess of the pandemic that sent the festival online, he still has a golden age of television, with soaring content costs from Hollywood actors, to return to the 2022 edition for a review and a deal?
When it comes to television and Golden Age content, unscripted and unwritten, Banff plays a role internationally, more than ever before. Everyone knows the impact the pandemic has had on feature films and theatrical performances. But television content has flourished online, and the festival has benefited from the involvement of major global media companies. And it is the center of new content generation where creativity and industry come together. This is a very developing market. This is a place where new projects and new companies, but mostly new projects, are implemented and eventually developed and produced. You will find even more.
The interview is edited for length and clarity.
The story first appeared in the June 8 issue of The Gossipify. Click here to subscribe.
Source: Hollywood Reporter
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
