Actors Eric McCormack and Zach Lipovsky will be recognized for their contributions to the film industry at the upcoming Spotlight: British Columbia Directors Conference in Vancouver. The event, organized by the Directors Guild of Canada – B.C. District Council, will take place on January 24-25, 2024, in New Westminster, a suburb of Vancouver. McCormack will receive the prestigious Spotlight Award, while Lipovsky, who directed the sixth installment of the Final Destination horror franchise, will be honored with the Industry Builder Award.
In addition to the awards, Brian Hamilton, an indie producer and founder of the Pacific Screenwriting Program, will receive the Trailblazer Award. This recognition aims to celebrate achievements in screenwriting, directing, producing, and acting within the British Columbia film and television industry.
A Celebration of Talent and Collaboration
As part of the conference, McCormack will engage in a panel discussion about actor-director collaboration alongside fellow actors Kandyse McClure and Tahmoh Penikett. Lipovsky will lead a masterclass and present a screening of his low-budget cult superhero film Freaks. This film marked a significant turning point for Lipovsky and his collaborator Adam Stein, allowing them to transition from their roles as Disney television directors to creating features under a Hollywood studio deal.
Upon learning of his award, Lipovsky expressed gratitude, stating, “The DGC and my fellow directors have been a huge part of my growth as a filmmaker. I hope receiving this award encourages more of us to keep supporting and mentoring fellow directors because that’s how our community grows stronger.”
Local directors and creatives in British Columbia are eager to establish their presence in a production landscape largely dominated by major studios and streaming platforms. Hamilton echoed this sentiment, saying, “B.C.’s film and television industry thrives when we create space for new voices and take responsibility for developing the next wave of creative talent. Receiving this award is deeply meaningful. It reinforces the importance of collaboration and mentorship as we work to empower our B.C. creators to achieve global impact.”
Local Talent Takes Center Stage
The conference will feature contributions from other notable local talents, including Amanda Tapping from Stargate, Sean Piller of Wild Cards and Private Eyes, and Heather Hawthorn Doyle from The Assembly. The awards gala not only celebrates individual achievements but also aims to inspire and encourage collaboration among emerging filmmakers in the region.
This gathering marks an important moment for the British Columbia film community, highlighting the importance of mentorship and support among industry professionals. As the region continues to grow as a hub for film production, events like the Spotlight: British Columbia Directors Conference serve as vital platforms for recognizing the achievements of local talent and fostering new creative collaborations.
