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Deeper pockets for film festival award

The Whistler Film Festival now hosts the largest cash prize for Canadian film in Western Canada thanks to a new two-year partnership with the Director’s Guild of Canada, the British Columbia District Council.

The Whistler Film Festival now hosts the largest cash prize for Canadian film in Western Canada thanks to a new two-year partnership with the Director’s Guild of Canada, the British Columbia District Council.

As a result, the festival’s top award, the Borsos Award for Best New Canadian Feature Film, will be increased 50 per cent: from $10,000 to $15,000.

“We are extremely gratified that the Director’s Guild of Canada, British Columbia District Council has stepped up to support this worthy award,” said Shauna Hardy, festival director in a written release. “This commitment enables us to increase our support to Canadian filmmakers as well as continue to provide an environment where they can truly flourish.”

The award is named after legendary Canadian filmmaker Phillip Borsos, most famously known for his film The Grey Fox. The award recognizes films, which embody the spirit of independent filmmaking in Canada. Priority is given to filmmakers who screen their Canadian or World premiere at the festival.

There are other awards to be won at the festival, including the People’s Choice for Best Feature, the $5,000 award for Best Documentary, $1,000 for Best Short Film and the Best Mountain Culture Film.

Feature film submissions for this year are due by Aug. 18. Film submission guidelines are available at www.whistlerfilmfestival.com.