Ontario Government Invests In Animation Centre
Toronto – The Ontario government is investing nearly CAD$23 million in Starz Animation Toronto to help expand its studio and create or retain over 250 jobs. This investment in Ontario talent and equipment will help Starz Animation Toronto attract more international business. The company is also investing CAD$130 million over the next five years. Many of the new Starz Animation staffers will be local new media 
graduates
One of Canada’s largest 3D animation studios, Starz Animation Toronto creates computer-animated movies, TV series and commercials for clients. Ontario’s investment will help Starz Animation Toronto, a world-class studio, develop and produce its own feature films — allowing it to compete with the best studios in the world.
Current productions at Starz Animation Toronto include the feature film “Gnomeo & Juliet”, based on the Shakespeare play told through the eyes of duelling garden gnome families. The movie is being produced by Sir Elton John and David Furnish for Miramax Films.
Investing in digital media is part of Ontario’s plan to secure the next generation of jobs. Nearly every film nominated for a special effects Oscar in the past five years has used technology developed in Ontario.
“We’re serious about helping companies create high-tech jobs. Investing in our creative talent creates good jobs – right here, right now,” said Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario.
