TORONTO, June 25, 2015 /CNW/ - White Pine Pictures' president Peter Raymont announced today that he will shortly conclude negotiations regarding the broadcast of his company's much anticipated documentary, featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, cabinet members and senior advisors. A fall airdate is anticipated.
Raymont also expressed his frustration that the Toronto Star published clips from an unauthorized, copyrighted version of the documentary. He pointed out that releasing clips from this film does injustice to the work of the filmmakers and to potential viewers.
Raymont said, "Apart from the fact that this is theft and re-use of stolen property on the part of the Star, it also misrepresents what viewers will see in the documentary itself. As a news organization that has long defended itself against similar theft of its creative product I am disappointed that the Star has behaved so cavalierly toward another professional with a demonstrated commitment to serious journalism."
"The editorial claims made by Star reporter, Robert Benzie are inaccurate", he added. "The Premier's Office is not blocking the airing of the documentary and has arranged for all remaining releases to be signed to facilitate a prompt broadcast."
"TVO decided to abandon the production while editing was still in progress. We dispute TVO's assertions that White Pine Pictures was deficient in fulfilling the delivery requirements of the film, which was in post-production. TVO has twice issued statements that impugn my professional reputation and integrity", says Raymont. "It is not uncommon for creative differences to arise during the production and editing of a documentary, particularly one with political themes. In my experience, such difficulties have always been resolved."
Raymont urged viewers interested in this long-form candid documentary about the Premier and politics in Ontario to wait to see the real thing. "It's a terrific film", says Raymont, "We are very proud of it and look forward to its premiere."
Peter Raymont and White Pine Pictures have produced over 100 documentary films and TV dramas, honoured with 46 Canadian and international awards including an Emmy for Best Documentary. White Pine Pictures recently released its highly-anticipated documentary on Omar Khadr, featuring exclusive access, broadcast to high ratings on the CBC and SRC.
SOURCE White Pine Pictures
Image with caption: "White Pine Pictures (CNW Group/White Pine Pictures)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150625_C9940_PHOTO_EN_43870.jpg
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