Canadian broadcasting student Gergo Koroknay stands on a production set in hopes of one day being a director in Canada. (Ryan Yip, CMRU.ca)
In Canada’s realm of media there is a diverse array of creators who all aim to have their art appreciated. Whether it be filmmakers, singers or any other kind of media creator, the ultimate goal is to be noticed. I personally believe that any regulations for art have the potential to be creatively harmful. Canada’s CanCon regulations limit the freedom artists have when assembling their desired team to create their media. Currently, CanCon regulations use a point based system for TV/film to determine if the content is considered Canadian. This system awards 1-2 points for each creative position on the team that is filled by a Canadian. 6 points out of a possible 10 must be met for the show/film to be considered Canadian. For music on the radio, 2 of 4 criteria must be of Canadian origin.
The Reason
Like any workplace, creatives select their team based on who they feel is most suited for the role. If by chance the connections you have leave you with a production team that does not meet the CanCon regulations, your opportunity to land broadcasting placements in Canada are hindered significantly. For example, 75% of CBC’s broadcast day needs to be Canadian content. This leaves your window to appear on television much smaller. You cannot pick and choose the right people for each position based on your imagination for your idea, without considering their country of heritage. This creates an added difficulty in making your original idea a reality.
Devil’s Advocate
On the other hand, CanCon regulations do help provide jobs and opportunities for Canadian artists. Without these regulations, they may otherwise be washed out or limited in the glare of creatives from the United States who may have more notoriety in their field. There is a chance many Director, Producer, and Screenwriter positions are filled based on portfolio and status, which is much more easily boosted in the United States. Aspiring creatives in the film world would likely face much more difficulty landing their dream positions at home, when the talent is being imported instead.
Looking Ahead
With all that being said, art is subjective. When someone has an idea it is imperative that they are allowed to execute it to the truest display of their vision. CanCon regulations are set to be reviewed in 2024, where we may see a change to prerequisites imposed on creative projects in Canada.
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