National Film Board of Canada Launches App for BlackBerry PlayBook

files/pictures/picture-35.jpgPress Release from National Film Board of Canada

Montreal, April 18, 2011 – The highly anticipated BlackBerry PlayBook tablet will come pre-installed with a free app from the National Film Board of Canada (NFB). The app gives users free access to acclaimed NFB films, as well as an exclusive high-definition (HD) channel dedicated to award-winning NFB films. The NFB app lets users search for films by thematic channels and create their own favourite lists.

“Over the last few years the NFB has become Canada’s recognized leader in engaging with audiences in the digital universe,” noted Tom Perlmutter, Government Film Commissioner and NFB Chairperson. “We take particular pride in working with RIM. As global leaders in our respective spheres, we showcase the strength and versatility of Canadian excellence, innovation and creativity. Today is just the start; look out for some unique offerings in the weeks to come,” added the Commissioner.

“We are thrilled to work with the NFB to bring their high-definition films to the BlackBerry PlayBook,” said Tyler Lessard, Vice President, Global Alliances & Developer Relations, Research In Motion. “The HD films are especially rich, high-quality projects that showcase the exceptional multimedia capabilities of the PlayBook platform."

Through the BlackBerry PlayBook, users will have access to 1,500 NFB titles, ranging from new and classic animation to documentaries, alternative dramas, and much more. There is even a special kids’ channel with fun and educational content for children. Selected award-winning NFB titles, including RIP! A Remix Manifesto, Oscar-winning Ryan, Oscar-nominated Madame Tutli-Putli, and Canadian classic The Cat Came Back, will also be available through the exclusive HD channel.

The NFB’s online Screening Room and mobile applications have racked up more than ten million views in just over two years—and put the experience of cinema into the hands of Canadians in every region of the country, on the platforms of their choice.

Stay tuned in the coming months for additional features and a wide range of new productions available through updates of the NFB’s app for the BlackBerry PlayBook.

About the National Film Board of Canada
The National Film Board of Canada creates social-issue documentaries, auteur animation, alternative drama and digital content that provide the world with a unique Canadian perspective. The NFB is expanding the vocabulary of 21st-century cinema and breaking new ground across a range of digital and cross-platform media, and focusing international attention on Canadian leadership and innovation in new media. Since the NFB’s founding in 1939, it has created more than 13,000 productions and won more than 5,000 awards, including 12 Oscars and more than 90 Genies. Its <NFB.ca> Screening Room features almost 2,000 productions online, including high-definition and 3D films, and its acclaimed mobile apps are bringing the experience of quality cinema to Canadians everywhere.