Hamilton Film Board Launches with Inaugural Executive Team and Industry Leaders
Hamilton, ON — The Hamilton Film Board (HFB) is thrilled to announce its official formation and the election of its first Executive team—uniting a powerhouse of local industry leaders dedicated to advancing Hamilton’s screen-based sector. Hamilton has proven itself to be a dynamic and in-demand destination for film and television production, with its rich character, stunning locations, and a community that understands the power of storytelling. But beyond attracting outside productions, The Hamilton Film Board has an even greater opportunity — and responsibility — to invest in our own film ecosystem. By investing in ourselves, encouraging collaboration, and creating opportunities for growth, we can ensure that Hamilton isn't just a place where films are made — it's a place where careers are launched, voices are heard, and stories are born.
HFB agrees by championing local creators and strengthening industry connections, we’re not just supporting film — we’re building an economic and cultural engine for Hamilton. We want producers to bring their stories here, yes — but we also want Hamiltonians to stay, grow, and thrive in this industry. This is about creating meaningful opportunity, job security, and a collaborative, future-forward film community that is proudly and uniquely Hamilton.
The newly elected Executive includes:
- Christopher G. Giroux, President
Giroux is a prolific Hamilton based producer with more than 50 features under his belt. With work spanning from TIFF to international streamers, he brings a strategic vision and deep industry insight to the leadership of HFB. - Ken Woychesko, Treasurer
Co-founder of Hamilton Film Studios, Woychesko brings decades of experience in financial operations, logistics, and creative industry infrastructure. As Treasurer, he will ensure strong fiscal oversight and sustainable planning. - Ann Pirvu, Secretary
An accomplished producer and Canadian Screen Award nominated actress, Pirvu is a multilingual creative force with a passion for community-building and cultural development. She will lead the Board’s governance and internal communications initiatives.
“The Hamilton Film Board was created to champion the city’s growing film and television sector, serving as a vital bridge between industry and community. As Hamilton continues to evolve into a premier destination for production, the Film Board ensures that local voices are heard, resources are maximized, and opportunities are shared — helping build a sustainable creative economy rooted in collaboration, inclusion, and innovation. Hamilton’s always been camera-ready. The Film Board makes sure we’re industry-ready too," explains Christopher Giroux, President and Founding Member of the Hamilton Film Board.
About the Hamilton Film Board
The Hamilton Film Board is a not-for-profit organization established to promote Hamilton as a leading destination for film, television, and digital media production. The organization exists to elevate the local industry’s visibility, support talent development, foster community engagement, and drive economic success.
Its mandate:
To measure and elevate the Hamilton screen industry’s image, visibility, talent development, and economic success—making Hamilton the “it” place to film. HFB aims to foster a self-sufficient, vibrant, and inclusive creative community anchored in top-tier crews, educational partnerships, diverse creators, and world-class production infrastructure.
Founding Members
“What excites me most about launching the Hamilton Film Board is the calibre of the people at the table," Jeff Boulton, Producer and a Founding Member of Hamilton Film Board. "This is not a symbolic group—we are working professionals with deep connections to the industry and a shared passion for elevating Hamilton as a premier destination for screen production. Our founding members represent nearly every corner of the ecosystem, and we’re united in our commitment to making real progress on our mandate: building visibility, opportunity, and long-term sustainability for motion pictures, television, and digital media in this city.”
The HFB was formed by a dedicated group of industry professionals who represent the depth and diversity of Hamilton’s screen sector:
- Christoph Benfey – Director of Photography, CEO at Evil Empire Studios
- Jeff Boulton – Producer, President at Crafthaus Ltd.
- Mike Bruce – Co-Founder at Aeon Studio Group, Partner at Studio550, Location Manager, Owner of Grant Avenue Studio
- Nathan Fleet – Filmmaker; Executive Director of the Hamilton Film Festival and Hamilton School of Media Arts
- Christopher G. Giroux – Producer, Director
- Ali Goldthorpe – Producer, Production Manager
- Danielle Rizzo – Owner-Operator at Millworks Creative Studios Inc.
- Matthew Watts – Gaffer, Lighting Director, and Rental Manager at Picture Perfect Package Lighting and Grip Rentals
- Ken Woychesko – Co-Founder of Hamilton Film Studios
- Zach Zohr – Filmmaker, Co-Founder of Hamilton Film Studios
Industry Collaboration and Shared Vision
While the Hamilton Film Board operates independently, it shares common goals with many civic and cultural stakeholders working to strengthen the city’s creative economy. The City of Hamilton’s Film Office, a key player in supporting local and visiting productions, continues to engage with HFB on matters of mutual interest.
“The City of Hamilton has long played a critical role in Ontario’s film infrastructure—from our unique locations and supportive businesses to the talented workforce that calls Hamilton home. We welcome the industry and its positive impacts on the city. The establishment of the Hamilton Film Board adds another layer of support within the sector, and we look forward to continued collaboration where our mandates align,” says Devon Hogue, Business Development Consultant, Creative Industries, City of Hamilton.
Upcoming Events
This fall, the HFB will present two major public initiatives:
- Supercrawl 2025 (September 12–14): The Board’s debut activation, “Film Lives Here,” will feature live production demos, filmmaker panels, and screenings, offering Supercrawl’s 280,000+ attendees an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at Hamilton’s screen industry.
- Hamilton Film Festival 2025 (November): Building on the momentum from Supercrawl, HFB will mount a second initiative celebrating local productions, industry talent, and training opportunities—further connecting the community with Hamilton’s vibrant filmmaking ecosystem.
For media inquiries, partnerships, or to get involved, please contact:
📧 info@hamiltonfilmboard.ca