The divisive and little-seen Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice took home the top prize for best motion picture at Sunday’s Canadian Screen Awards. It edged out strong contenders, including Matthew Rankin’s Universal Language, which had previously made the Academy Awards shortlist for best international feature.
Despite The Apprentice winning two awards, Rankin’s surreal comedy dominated with six trophies overall, including directing honors. Rankin remarked on the film’s themes of alienation, xenophobia, and culture shock, emphasizing kindness as a radical response to today’s political divides.
In television, CTV’s Children Ruin Everything won best comedy series, surpassing Crave’s Late Bloomer, while Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent took home best drama series. Other notable winners included Wynonna Earp: Vengeance and The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal, which earned multiple honors earlier in the weekend.
Documentary Yintah highlighted Indigenous sovereignty struggles, while Canada’s Drag Race continued its success by winning best reality competition for the fourth time in five years.
The awards night also featured outspoken moments, including Brooke Lynn Hytes’ criticism of Donald Trump’s policies toward transgender people, and The Apprentice producer Daniel Bekerman’s remarks on the film’s controversial subject.
Despite some backstage tensions and industry challenges, the Canadian Screen Awards maintained a celebratory tone, honoring Canadian talent like Manny Jacinto and remembering icons such as Donald Sutherland. Emotional acceptance speeches underscored the evening’s significance for many winners.
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