White Pine Pictures' statement re their documentary on Premier Wynne and the Government of Ontario

White Pine Pictures' statement re their documentary on Premier Wynne and the Government of Ontario


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

White Pine Pictures

CONTACT: Davida Gragor
Head of Marketing and Communications
White Pine Pictures
416-703-5580 x 245
davida@whitepinepictures.com


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