Just for laughs

[GDS]

When ordinary people think of film festivals, they don't think of Montreal, which happens to be the ONLY competitive film festival in North America recognized by the FIAPF. Roger Ebert once called it the second most important film festival after Cannes. Now most people say that Toronto comes second in that category.

 

Actually, the Toronto film festival is also recognized and accredited by the FIAPF. Just to show that you have no idea what you are talking about. Both are classed "A" festival or the highest ranking but each has their own focus. This was almost mandated by the FIAPF because Canada is the only place to have two "A" level festivals and they are not suposed to be in competition with one another. Toronto tries to compete with Cannes, Montreal tries to compete with Berlin.

[peekay]

Actually, the Toronto film festival is also recognized and accredited by the FIAPF. Just to show that you have no idea what you are talking about. Both are classed "A" festival or the highest ranking but each has their own focus. This was almost mandated by the FIAPF because Canada is the only place to have two "A" level festivals and they are not suposed to be in competition with one another. Toronto tries to compete with Cannes, Montreal tries to compete with Berlin.

 

Thanks for proving my point. If what you say is true, Montreal had the accreditation FIRST, then T.O....

 

Back on topic, I give the Montreal Just For Laughs festival a maximum of ten years before Toronto gets the majority of the performers and glory. The french version will be the only one left here.

[elketeigen]

This is a bit like carrying coal to Newcastle. Chicago and Toronto already have built in comedy scenes with a myriad of venues and clubs year round for this sort of thing. Perhaps they should have franchised in Pittsburgh or Miami or Calgary.

 

It's kind of like exporting the jazz fest to New Orleans. If it was for quick bucks, more power to them. But Just for Laughs won't have staying power in either city.