The 2016 Len Blum Residency, in partnership with TIFF, has named Andrew Cividino this year's recipient. From the TIFF press release:
"TIFF announced today that screenwriter and filmmaker Andrew Cividino is the 2016 Len Blum Resident. Launched in 2015, the Residency pays homage to one of Canada’s most celebrated screenwriters, Len Blum, by providing one Canadian filmmaker with the opportunity to live, work and be mentored at TIFF Bell Lightbox. The Residency is generously supported by Toronto-based filmmaker and distributor, Ron Mann. Cividino will take up residency at the Festival Tower for three months later this year and receive one-on-one script consultations with Len Blum and mentoring from TIFF’s Industry and Programming teams, as well as support from TIFF partners. A TIFF Talent Lab alumnus, Ontario-born Cividino is an award-winning filmmaker and graduate of Ryerson University. His debut feature, Sleeping Giant, was one of only seven international films selected for the 2015 Cannes Critics’ Week, and went on to win several awards, including Best Canadian First Feature Film at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival®. 'We're delighted this talented filmmaker will be joining us at TIFF Bell Lightbox,' said Kathleen Drumm, Director, Industry at TIFF. 'For decades, TIFF has worked to become a supportive hub for emerging artists in the film industry and the Len Blum Residency enables us to elevate new talent and to share our resources.” “It’s an honour to be selected for the Len Blum Residency and I can’t wait to dive in,' said Cividino. 'It’s an opportunity to write my film in a place that is a constant source of inspiration for me, with access to incredible industry support and the Lightbox’s fantastic programming at my doorstep. I couldn’t be happier.' 'I am delighted to support the Len Blum Residency and thrilled to have Andrew Cividino as the 2016 recipient,' said Ron Mann. 'The script is the foundation of a film and so important to its success. This programme recognizes that, and will help Andrew continue along his path as a successful filmmaker.'