Film Crew Excellence Award Announced
A member of the film industry was recognized for her outstanding contribution to the growth of the audiovisual industry in the province.
Film and Creative Industries Nova Scotia presented the Film Crew Excellence Award to Maggie Thomas for her outstanding work in Nova Scotia's audiovisual industry. Her award was announced at the 2014 Atlantic Film Festival industry awards Sunday, Sept. 14.
"I am elated and surprised to be honoured with the Film Crew Excellence Award," said Maggie Thomas. "Not just one person wins this award, it is the recognition of the contribution of the technical crew to a film."
"The professionalism, innovation and ingenuity of the crews in Nova Scotia are major contributors to the province's creative economy," said Michel Samson, Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism. "It is important that we recognize the role that crews play in establishing Nova Scotia as one of Canada's premiere film destinations."
Now in its second year, the award honours an individual or team of the film industry who works behind the camera and has a relentless vision for the pursuit of excellence. The award is an original sculpture created by Pictou County artist and blacksmith Ruben Irons.
Ms. Thomas, a script supervisor, is a veteran of Nova Scotia's audiovisual industry. Throughout her career, she has shared her knowledge and patiently supported new people on set, establishing a legacy of other excellent script supervisors.
A call for nominations was sent to the production community, through Film and Creative Industries Nova Scotia and the local unions and guilds. Nominees were put forward by their peers.
"It is an honour to recognize the exceptional talent we have within the province's film industry," said Lisa Bugden, president and CEO of Film and Creative Industries Nova Scotia. "The caliber of the written nominations we received in support of Ms. Thomas and the other nominees speaks volumes to the skills and capability we have here in Nova Scotia.
"I want to thank Ms. Thomas for all her efforts in helping to establish and grow the province's film industry."
A seven-person jury of industry professionals, chaired by last year's award winner Gary Swim, selected the winner.
Cinematographer Christopher Ball and costume designer Martha Curry were named as the other finalists for the award and received honourable mentions for their contributions.
Film and Creative Industries Nova Scotia is the lead development agency for the creative industries in the province. Providing a variety of loans, investments, programs and services, the agency works to support the growth and development of Nova Scotia's creative enterprises.