Sebastian Stan as Donald Trump in 'The Apprentice.'
A night celebrating cinematic excellence took on a politically resonant tone at the Canadian Screen Awards in Toronto. Leading the evening was The Apprentice, a bold and provocative film tracing the formative years of Donald Trump. Directed by Ali Abbasi, the film claimed the top prize for best movie and delivered a powerful statement through its storytelling.
Sebastian Stan won best lead performance for his portrayal of a young Donald Trump, while Jeremy Strong’s intense take on Trump’s real-life mentor, Roy Cohn, also drew critical acclaim. Producer Daniel Bekerman accepted the award with a stirring speech. “Our film exposes how young Donald Trump built his empire by stamping his name on a crumbling structure. Today, he speaks of Canada like it’s a 51st state. As filmmakers, we must rise to tell truths that build trust and unity,” Bekerman declared.
He added, “The resurgence of indigenous and queer cinema inspires hope, but power structures continue to threaten our voices. This is our moment to stand together.”
The Apprentice made its debut at the Cannes Film Festival and has since received nominations from both the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards.
The political climate deepened further when indigenous leader Molly Wickham accepted the best documentary award for Yintah. Her impassioned speech focused on the fight for indigenous land rights and ended with the powerful proclamation, “Land back. Free Palestine.” Her moment was met with widespread applause as the ceremony aired live on CBC and CBC Gem.
Director Andrew Rankin won best director for Universal Language, a comedy inspired by Iranian cinema that previously took home the Directors’ Fortnight audience award at Cannes. In his acceptance speech, Rankin said, “As barriers rise, kindness as a radical act is more important than ever.”
The night also honored Canada’s Drag Race with best reality series. Executive producer Trevor Boris compared the show to “an island of misfit toys,” highlighting how it celebrates uniqueness and community.
In scripted television, Children Ruin Everything was named best comedy. Cate Blanchett took home best comedy lead for her role in Guy Maddin’s political horror-comedy Rumours. Supinder Wraich was awarded best lead actress for Allegiance on CBC, while Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent won best drama series following a field-leading number of nominations.
An emotional tribute to Donald Sutherland was delivered by his son, Kiefer Sutherland. Reflecting on his father’s legacy, Kiefer remarked, “He was just a kid from the Maritimes who had a voice. His legacy is one of range, power, and relevance.” Donald Sutherland’s career spanned from MASH and Ordinary People to The Hunger Games.
Audience favorites included The Way Home, which earned the main audience award, and Warrior Up!, which received the children’s audience honor.
Manny Jacinto, known for roles in The Good Place and Star Wars: The Acolyte, accepted the Radius Award for international achievement. In a humorous turn, he recalled that his acting journey began with Craigslist auditions.
Finally, Marsha Greene accepted the Changemaker Award for her contributions to Canadian storytelling through The Porter and 10 Days in the Valley. In a commanding speech, she urged the industry to push beyond symbolic gestures. “Now more than ever, this must be a movement, not a moment. We need to center authentic voices and make lasting change.”
