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Ontario orders provincewide police inspection after Toronto corruption allegations

Emily Roy
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Ontario orders provincewide police inspection after Toronto corruption allegations

Ontario has ordered a provincewide inspection of police services and police boards after corruption allegations involving Toronto police officers.

Ryan Teschner, Ontario’s inspector general of policing, announced the move Monday at Queen’s Park. He said the allegations have damaged public confidence and a broad, independent review is needed to rebuild trust.

Teschner said the inspection will look for weaknesses in oversight and standards across the policing system. If issues are found, he said, the goal is to drive meaningful improvements across the province.

Why Ontario launched this provincewide inspection

Teschner said the work will be carried out under Ontario’s Community Safety and Policing Act. The law is the province’s main framework for policing rules and oversight.

He said the inspection will begin with five defined areas. However, it can expand into other areas if new concerns emerge during the review.

Teschner framed the decision as a response to public concern. He said the system must be strong enough to detect vulnerabilities early and prevent misconduct.

Ontario police review will focus on five areas

Teschner said the inspection will concentrate on core points where risks can develop inside police organizations.

The five areas he listed are:

  • Officer supervision and span of control
  • Screening and vetting of officers
  • Access to police databases and information systems
  • Evidence and property management
  • Substance abuse and fitness for duty

Database access is a central issue in the broader case. It refers to how officers can search internal systems that contain sensitive information, and what controls exist to prevent misuse.

Charges in Project South set the context

The provincewide inspection follows major charges announced by York Regional Police on Feb. 5.

York Regional Police said seven active Toronto police officers and one retired Toronto officer were charged as part of Project South. The investigation is focused on organized crime and corruption.

The allegations include bribery, obstruction of justice, drug trafficking, theft of personal property, breach of trust, and unauthorized access and distribution of confidential information.

Toronto police chief asked for an external inspection

After the charges were announced, Toronto police Chief Myron Demkiw said he wrote to Teschner seeking an independent external inspection.

Teschner said he will appoint an external inspector to lead the provincewide review. That person will have the same authority he has to obtain relevant information.

He also said the inspection will be carried out in a way that does not compromise or interfere with Project South.

What happens after the inspector reports back

Teschner said the external inspector will deliver a report to him once the work is completed. He will then review it to determine whether there has been any non-compliance with Ontario’s policing legislation.

If non-compliance is found, Teschner said he will decide whether to issue legally binding directions. He said any directions and the full review will be made public, but he did not provide a timeline.

He added that the Inspectorate of Policing would also be required to monitor how any directions are implemented, and whether they achieve the intended outcomes.

Allegations include leaked information and claimed criminal ties

York Regional Police Deputy Chief Ryan Hogan said on Feb. 5 that the case includes allegations of ties between some charged Toronto officers and criminal networks.

Hogan said those networks were allegedly involved in a conspiracy to murder a man who works at an Ontario correctional institution. He described a 36-hour period in which suspects allegedly went to the man’s home in York Region multiple times.

Hogan said suspects were arrested at the scene. He also alleged that Toronto police Const. Timothy Barnhardt unlawfully accessed confidential information about the victim and leaked it to Brian DaCosta, described by police as a key figure in a criminal network operating in the Greater Toronto Area.

Hogan alleged that the information was then shared further and used to cause harm. He also alleged that Const. Elias Mouawad released confidential information in support of illicit activity.

Investigators also allege Const. John Madeley (Jr.) and his father, retired constable John Madeley (Sr.), accessed and distributed confidential information.

Bribery and theft allegations also part of the case

Hogan said Barnhardt, Sgt. Robert Black, Const. Saurabjit Bedi and Sgt. Carl Grellette are alleged to have accepted bribes. Police allege the bribes were tied to providing protection from a law enforcement investigation linked to illegal cannabis dispensaries.

Hogan also said Const. Derek McCormick was arrested in connection with the alleged theft of personal property from a police facility. Police allege the items included driver’s licences, health cards and passports, and said a substantial amount was recovered.

York Regional Police said 19 additional suspects have been arrested and charged, including two youths whose ages were not provided.

Teschner said Project South shows what can happen when an organization identifies a serious problem and pursues it. He said the province’s role now is to examine the broader system, including vetting and access controls, to ensure safeguards are strong across Ontario policing.

Trump threatens 100% tariffs on all Canadian imports over China trade deal

Emily Roy
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Trump threatens 100% tariffs on all Canadian imports over China trade deal

U.S. President Donald Trump warned on Saturday that he would impose 100% tariffs on all Canadian imports if Ottawa finalises a trade agreement with China, escalating pressure on Canada as it seeks to deepen commercial ties with Beijing.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said Canada would face sweeping trade penalties “immediately” if it moved forward with a deal with China, framing the issue as a national-security and trade-enforcement concern for the United States. He also used the term “governor” to refer to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, language Trump has used previously in remarks about Canada’s leadership.

The warning came one day after the Canadian government said a preliminary trade agreement with China was close to being signed, a step Ottawa has presented as part of efforts to improve market access and reduce certain bilateral trade barriers amid weaker global growth.

Trump Canada tariffs threat targets full range of imports

Trump’s statement suggested the proposed measure would apply across sectors, with no carve-outs. While he did not publish a detailed tariff schedule, he wrote that there would be “no exception,” indicating that the penalty would cover the full spectrum of Canadian goods entering the U.S. market.

The president argued that a Canada-China deal could allow Chinese products to enter the United States indirectly, describing Canada as a potential transshipment point. He accused China of seeking to expand its economic influence and warned of consequences for Canada’s economy and society if it aligned more closely with Beijing.

Ottawa’s China talks collide with U.S. trade pressure

Canada and the United States are major trading partners with tightly integrated supply chains, particularly in automotive manufacturing, energy, agriculture and industrial goods. A blanket 100% tariff would represent a sharp escalation in a relationship anchored by the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

The Canadian government has not publicly detailed all provisions of the proposed preliminary agreement with China, but has said it is focused on lowering certain tariffs and easing trade frictions. The announcement has drawn scrutiny in Washington at a time when the U.S. administration is pressing allies and partners to reduce economic dependence on China and tighten enforcement against what it describes as trade circumvention.

Next steps and market implications

Trump’s threat adds uncertainty for Canadian exporters and manufacturers that rely on stable access to the U.S. market, and it raises the stakes for Ottawa as it balances trade diversification efforts with managing U.S. tariff risks.

Neither the White House nor Canada’s Prime Minister’s Office released further operational details on Saturday about how the proposed tariff would be implemented, or whether Washington would pursue additional measures if Canada proceeds with the China agreement.

Gavin McKenna charged with felony assault after Jan. 31 incident in State College

Emily Roy
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Gavin McKenna charged with felony assault after Jan. 31 incident in State College

Penn State men’s hockey freshman Gavin McKenna, an 18-year-old centre viewed as a leading prospect for this summer’s NHL draft, has been charged with felony aggravated assault following an alleged altercation in State College, Pennsylvania, on Jan. 31, according to court records and police information reported by The Associated Press.

McKenna is accused of striking a 21-year-old man in the face during the incident. The victim suffered multiple facial fractures and required surgery, according to an incident report cited in coverage.

McKenna also faces additional charges of simple assault, harassment and disorderly conduct.

Court appearance, bail and next hearing

McKenna was arraigned and released on $20,000 unsecured bail, according to court documents. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 11.

Penn State has not publicly detailed any team discipline connected to the case. Requests for comment to McKenna’s representatives were not immediately returned, according to the same report.

Incident followed outdoor game at Beaver Stadium

The alleged altercation occurred in the hours after Penn State played Michigan State in an outdoor Big Ten game at Beaver Stadium in University Park on Jan. 31. The game was staged at the Nittany Lions’ football venue as part of a marquee outdoor event.

McKenna’s season and background

McKenna, who is from Whitehorse, Yukon, has been one of Penn State’s top performers this season, with 11 goals and 21 assists through 24 games.

He joined Penn State after an NCAA policy change allowed Canadian Hockey League players to compete at the Division I level, and his decision was also influenced by a name, image and likeness arrangement, according to prior reporting around his recruitment.

McKenna recently played for Canada at the World Junior Championship, recording four goals and six assists as Canada won the bronze medal.

The charges are allegations and have not been proven in court.

Kid Rock to headline TPUSA “All-American Halftime Show” livestream opposite Super Bowl performance

amy z
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Kid Rock to headline TPUSA “All-American Halftime Show” livestream opposite Super Bowl performance

Kid Rock is set to headline Turning Point USA’s “All-American Halftime Show,” an alternative, livestreamed concert that the organisation says will run at the same time as the NFL Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday.

Turning Point USA (TPUSA) said the lineup will also include country artists Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice and Gabby Barrett. The event is being promoted as celebrating “faith, family and freedom” and is expected to be streamed across TPUSA’s social media accounts, according to details reported by Global News.

TPUSA halftime show positioned as alternative to NFL broadcast

TPUSA is positioning its programming as counter-scheduling to the official halftime show, which will be headlined by Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny. In comments included in the announcement, Kid Rock said the group was approaching the alternative event “like David and Goliath,” casting the effort as a challenge to what he described as the scale of the professional football broadcast and the reach of a global pop star.

TPUSA spokesman Andrew Kolvet described the event as an “entertainment option” with “no agenda other than to celebrate faith, family and freedom,” and said the organisation expects large online viewership.

Political reactions amplify online attention

Public figures also weighed in after TPUSA released the lineup. U.S. Vice-President JD Vance praised the scheduled performers in a post on X, while U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also commented on social media, according to the same report.

Kid Rock has previously aligned himself with U.S. President Donald Trump, and the announcement comes amid heightened political attention around the Super Bowl’s halftime act and broader entertainment programming.

Bad Bunny performance draws criticism from some conservatives

Bad Bunny has faced criticism from some conservative commentators since being announced as the official halftime performer. Trump, speaking to Newsmax in October, criticised the selection and said he did not know the artist.

Bad Bunny addressed the controversy in public appearances in recent months, including a segment on Saturday Night Live where he referenced the reaction to his selection and urged viewers to “learn” Spanish ahead of the performance, according to the report.

The NFL has also announced additional game-day performances, including Green Day as part of the opening ceremony and Charlie Puth performing the national anthem, with Brandi Carlile set to sing “America the Beautiful” and Coco Jones scheduled to perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

TPUSA said its livestream will run concurrently with the Super Bowl halftime show, offering viewers an alternative program during the same time slot.

Canada nuclear weapons debate flares as Ottawa rules out pursuing its own arsenal

Kevin Martin
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Canada nuclear weapons debate flares as Ottawa rules out pursuing its own arsenal

Canada has “absolutely no intention” of acquiring nuclear weapons, Defence Minister David McGuinty said this week, pushing back against renewed discussion about nuclear deterrence as global arms control and alliance politics face fresh strain.

Questions about nuclear proliferation have intensified internationally amid tensions inside NATO, sharper rhetoric from U.S. President Donald Trump toward allies, and the expiry on February 5 of New START, the last remaining U.S.-Russia nuclear arms control treaty.

Canada nuclear weapons: minister cites treaty commitments

Speaking to reporters ahead of a cabinet meeting, McGuinty said Canada remains bound by international agreements that prevent it from pursuing nuclear arms and stressed that the country has long been a non-proliferation state.

He said Ottawa’s focus is on strengthening conventional capabilities, including rearming, reinvesting, and rebuilding the Canadian Armed Forces. McGuinty added that an emphasis on Arctic security would support Canada’s ability to operate independently, even without a nuclear deterrent.

Former military chief’s remarks spark debate

The issue resurfaced after retired general Wayne Eyre, Canada’s former chief of the defence staff, raised the idea of not fully ruling out a Canadian nuclear weapons option during a private Ottawa discussion focused on sovereignty and military autonomy.

Reports quoting Eyre said he argued Canada might never have full strategic independence without nuclear weapons, while also indicating it is not something the country should pursue at present.

Experts warn against proliferation and highlight costs

Arms control and security experts cautioned that nuclear proliferation would carry significant political, diplomatic, and strategic costs for Canada, with limited practical benefit.

They argued the central questions are not technical feasibility but purpose, credibility, and consequences, including the likely reaction of allies and the burden of sustaining a nuclear force, delivery systems, command-and-control infrastructure, and long-term stewardship.

New START expiry raises fears of a new arms race

New START, which limited strategic nuclear warheads and launchers and provided transparency measures, expired on February 5 without a replacement agreement in force.

The United Nations secretary-general described the expiry as a grave moment for international peace and security and urged renewed efforts to avoid an unchecked arms race and restore guardrails on the world’s largest nuclear arsenals.

Canada’s defence choices amid alliance uncertainty

Canada, like other non-nuclear NATO members, relies on alliance deterrence, including U.S. nuclear forces, for collective security. Recent debates in Europe about nuclear “burden-sharing” and strategic autonomy have been driven by concerns over Russia’s posture and uncertainty about U.S. commitments.

In Canada, McGuinty’s comments signalled the government’s position that strengthening conventional defence and Arctic readiness, while maintaining treaty commitments and allied cooperation, remains Ottawa’s path as nuclear risks rise globally.

Carney meets Poilievre after leadership review as Conservatives offer cooperation on economy and tariffs

Kevin Martin
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Carney meets Poilievre after leadership review as Conservatives offer cooperation on economy and tariffs

Prime Minister Mark Carney met Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre in Ottawa on Wednesday for talks focused on the state of the Canadian economy, days after Poilievre secured renewed backing as party leader in a leadership review.

The Prime Minister’s Office did not issue a public readout of the meeting. Ahead of the discussion, a government source said Carney planned to raise measures in the budget implementation legislation, including funding tied to dental care and child care, as well as government bills aimed at tightening bail and sentencing and strengthening protections for places of worship from threats and hate-motivated violence.

Carney Poilievre meeting centres on “work with us” message

Speaking to reporters afterward, Poilievre said he urged Carney to work with the Conservatives to “fast-track results” on affordability, public safety and what he called a more “self-reliant” Canada. He said his party had “concrete proposals” and a record of being willing to cooperate.

Poilievre also criticised Carney over the status of Canada’s trade relationship with the United States, saying the prime minister had previously promised to secure a deal by July and arguing Ottawa should move quickly to remove what he described as unjust tariffs.

He said Canada needed to be more self-reliant to negotiate with U.S. President Donald Trump “from a position of strength,” and pointed to the need for faster approvals for major resource and infrastructure projects, including a proposed pipeline from Alberta to the Pacific coast.

Leadership review result strengthens Poilievre’s position

The meeting followed the Conservative Party’s leadership review vote at its annual convention in Calgary, where more than 87% of participating members supported Poilievre remaining leader.

Jivani Washington trip draws scrutiny in Ottawa

The Carney-Poilievre meeting came as Conservative MP Jamil Jivani’s trip to Washington to meet political and business contacts drew skepticism in Ottawa. Carney noted publicly that Jivani is not the minister responsible for international trade and is not the Conservatives’ trade critic, while confirming that Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc briefed Jivani ahead of the visit.

Jivani has described the trip as an effort to help build communication channels between Canada and the United States and is known to be a longtime friend of U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, according to the same report.

Carney’s government has not provided details of what was agreed in Wednesday’s meeting, but both sides publicly framed it as an opportunity to coordinate on economic priorities and Canada’s approach to U.S. trade pressure.

Toronto police arrests confirmed as Project South briefing set for Thursday

Kevin Martin
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Toronto police arrests confirmed as Project South briefing set for Thursday

The Toronto Police Association said several of its members were arrested on Wednesday as part of an investigation that sources described as linked to organized crime and corruption, with York Regional Police scheduled to provide an update on Thursday morning.

In a statement issued Wednesday evening, the union said it was aware of the arrests and would ensure members receive due process and wellness support. It declined to comment further on the investigation or identify those involved, and said the actions of the arrested members should not reflect the broader police service.

Police have not publicly outlined allegations or charges. Sources cited by Global News said at least nine Toronto Police Service officers were arrested in connection with the case.

Project South investigation and pending police update

York Regional Police has described Project South as a lengthy investigation into organized crime and corruption. In a media advisory posted on February 4, York Regional Police said it will announce the results of the investigation at a news conference at its headquarters in Aurora at 10 a.m. Thursday.

York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween and Deputy Chief Ryan Hogan are expected to speak, alongside Toronto Police Service Chief Myron Demkiw, according to the same advisory.

Neither York Regional Police nor the Toronto Police Service released further details ahead of the scheduled briefing, and the number of arrests has not been confirmed by police.

Union response and next steps

The Toronto Police Association said it would not comment on the investigation while it proceeds, beyond confirming arrests of members and stating it would support them through the process.

Further information on the scope of Project South, the identities of those arrested, and any charges is expected to be addressed at Thursday’s news conference.

Canada auto strategy expected as Carney prepares new measures amid U.S. tariffs

Emily Roy
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Canada auto strategy expected as Carney prepares new measures amid U.S. tariffs

The federal government is expected to announce a new strategy for Canada’s automobile manufacturing industry on Thursday, with Prime Minister Mark Carney set to make the announcement in the Greater Toronto Area as the sector faces pressure from U.S. tariffs.

Carney’s office has billed the event as an announcement of “new measures to transform Canada’s auto manufacturing sector for the future,” as Canada’s integrated North American auto supply chain confronts a 25% U.S. tariff on Canadian vehicles and ongoing trade uncertainty.

Canada auto strategy shifts away from EV sales mandate

Government and industry sources said the strategy will scrap the electric vehicle sales mandate and replace it with new vehicle emissions standards, according to The Canadian Press.

The planned shift would mark a change in how Ottawa seeks to lower transportation emissions, moving from a sales target framework toward standards tied to vehicle emissions performance.

Industry under pressure from U.S. tariff threat

Canada’s auto industry has been bracing for sustained trade friction with Washington. The United States has imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian vehicles, and President Donald Trump has threatened further tariffs on “all goods” from Canada, citing a trade deal with China.

Automakers and parts suppliers have warned that additional tariffs could disrupt production planning, investment decisions, and cross-border supply chains that rely on frequent movement of components between Canada and the United States.

Technical briefing scheduled alongside announcement

Senior officials from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, Transport Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada are scheduled to hold a technical briefing on the new auto strategy on Thursday morning in Ottawa, according to a federal media advisory.

The government has not publicly released full details of the strategy ahead of the announcement.

Streaming Wars in Canada: Platforms Raise Prices and Rethink Content Strategies

amy z
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Streaming Wars in Canada: Platforms Raise Prices and Rethink Content Strategies

TORONTO — Canada’s streaming market is entering a new phase as major platforms adjust prices, expand ad-supported options, and tighten content spending in a bid to keep subscribers while improving profitability. The changes are reshaping how Canadians pay for TV and film, and how companies decide what to make, buy and promote.

After years of rapid growth, streamers now compete in a more crowded and cost-sensitive market. Many households juggle multiple subscriptions. They also cancel faster when bills rise or a show ends.

Price Changes Push Viewers to Cheaper Tiers and Bundles

Several large streaming services have raised monthly fees in recent years. Many now steer customers toward lower-priced plans that include advertising. Others rely on annual plans or limited-time promotions to reduce churn.

Telecom bundling also plays a bigger role in Canada than in some markets. Companies often pair streaming with wireless, internet, or TV packages. Those bundles can soften price increases. They can also lock customers into longer commitments.

Ad-Supported Streaming Becomes Core Strategy

Ad tiers have moved from an experiment to a central product. Platforms pitch them as a way to keep prices lower while generating new revenue. Advertisers see a chance to reach audiences that no longer watch traditional TV.

This shift changes the viewer experience. It also changes commissioning decisions. Streamers often back series that can run longer, attract broad audiences, and deliver consistent viewing. They rely less on expensive niche projects.

Password Sharing Limits Redefine “Household” Accounts

Platforms have also tightened rules around password sharing. Many now define account use around a single household. They offer paid add-ons for extra users.

These policies aim to convert free riders into paying customers. They also create frustration for families and students who split time between homes. Some platforms have adjusted their policies in response to complaints. Others have pushed ahead.

Content Strategies Shift Toward Franchises, Sports and Local Hits

Content spending remains high, but priorities have shifted. Platforms and broadcasters now favour proven franchises, recognizable brands, and sports rights that can drive live viewing. They also lean on reality formats and unscripted series that cost less than premium drama.

In Canada, services also compete on local relevance. They commission Canadian series, acquire Canadian films, and support French-language programming to build loyalty in Quebec and beyond. They use local originals as a marketing hook. They also use them to strengthen relationships with Canadian producers.

Regulation and Canadian Content Expectations Add Pressure

Canada’s policy environment has become part of the streaming equation. Ottawa and regulators have signalled that large online platforms must support the domestic screen sector. That debate influences planning, especially for companies that operate globally and want stable rules across markets.

Industry groups argue that Canadian projects need reliable investment and strong promotion. Platforms counter that they need flexibility to respond to audience demand and rising production costs.

What Viewers Can Expect Next

In the short term, Canadians should expect more price testing, more ad-tier refinement, and more bundling deals. They should also expect sharper competition for attention as platforms release fewer but bigger titles and concentrate marketing on a smaller set of “must-watch” shows.

The streaming wars in Canada no longer revolve around rapid expansion. They now centre on retention, value, and the content that can justify another monthly bill.

Canadian Film and TV Industry Braces for a Busy Spring Release Schedule

Emily Roy
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Canadian Film and TV Industry Braces for a Busy Spring Release Schedule

TORONTO — Canadian film and television executives are preparing for a crowded spring release period as broadcasters, streaming platforms, festivals and industry events stack premieres into a tight window. Programmers expect heavy audience demand. Producers also see a rare chance to break through with Canadian-made stories before the summer slate takes over.

The spring calendar will test marketing budgets and media attention. It will also force tough choices on viewers as multiple Canadian titles compete for the same weeks.

Broadcasters Load Up on New and Returning Canadian Series

Canadian networks have signalled an aggressive spring posture. Industry listings show public and private broadcasters positioning more than 20 original Canadian series across late winter and spring on both linear TV and streaming companions.

Programmers have also built schedules around major sports and tentpole events. That approach aims to protect key premiere nights. It also helps networks keep momentum when live events dominate the conversation.

Streamers Push Premium Titles Into the Spring Window

Canadian streaming services and premium channels plan steady drops through the spring. They want to keep subscribers engaged after winter. They also want to avoid the summer churn that hits many platforms.

This strategy creates more competition for attention. It also rewards titles with clear hooks, strong casts, or built-in fandoms. Projects that can travel internationally will draw extra focus from distributors and sales agents.

Festivals and Industry Showcases Add to the Congestion

Toronto will again anchor the spring industry calendar. Hot Docs has set its 2026 festival dates for April 23 to May 3. The event typically draws global documentary premieres, market activity and major media coverage.

Later in the season, Canadian Screen Week will run May 27 to May 31 in Toronto. The timing puts awards campaigns and industry panels inside the same high-traffic period as late-spring premieres.

Development and Funding Pipelines Point to Continued Output

Behind the scenes, industry groups are building the next wave. The Canadian Film Centre has scheduled its 2026 Comedy Series Lab through early June, with a focus on developing new series projects and writer talent.

Telefilm Canada has also published timelines for upcoming program intakes that shape production planning. Those schedules influence when projects enter financing, packaging and greenlight stages.

What the Busy Spring Means for the Industry

A dense release schedule can lift the whole market. It can also bury smaller titles that lack marketing power. Distributors and publicists will push for strategic dates and clean promotional runs.

For audiences, the packed spring will bring more choice. For the industry, it will provide a clear test of what Canadian films and series can break through when the calendar leaves little room to breathe.

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