March 19, 2004

The northern community of Churchill has much to celebrate as the latest film shot in the area, The Snow Walker, opens in Winnipeg today, said Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson, who planned to attend the screening of the show this evening.

“This film shows the magnificence of the North and the power mother nature holds over life and death, something our northern people understand very well,” said the minister.  “A significant number of talented actors and producers, combined with the draw of Manitoba’s spectacular natural scenery, have seen our film industry continue to grow. This movie will only bring further acclaim to our north country.”

During the 2002-03 fiscal year, made-in-Manitoba films accounted for $86 million in production activity.  For 2003-04, approximately 30 movies were produced with total production activity levels expected to exceed $100 million.

“These productions show the world how much we have to offer in terms of talent and settings,” said Robinson.  “They also show the industry that we have the technical expertise to support their productions.”

The minister further noted that the ripple effect of major productions also provides significant economic benefits to the communities where the movies are produced. Robinson noted the community of Churchill has received recent acclaim as a result of being listed among the Top 20 Great Holiday Destinations by the Washington Post.  Churchill was also recently featured in National Geographic Magazine.

Robinson congratulated Churchill for the community’s involvement in the production of The Snow Walker.  He also extended congratulations to the film’s star, Annabella Piugattuk, who has already been nominated for a Genie Award.  “Miss Piugattuk’s performance reaches beyond the silver screen and into the hearts of Inuit people all across the North,” said Robinson.  “Her natural acting abilities are a tribute to her confidence in her heritage and culture.  We wish her well in whatever path her life takes.”

Robinson plans to visit Churchill March 27 when Manitoba band Doc Walker is scheduled to perform at Aurora Winterfest.

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