Nicole Hilliard-Forde is a renowned casting director and producer, founding Motel Pictures Inc. to amplify fresh voices in film and television.
In the world of independent film production, few names stand out like Nicole Hilliard-Forde. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Nicole has built a legacy as a casting director, producer, and talent accelerator. Known for her sharp eye for talent and her commitment to diversity, she is helping to reshape the landscape of Canadian cinema through Motel Pictures Inc., a company she founded with a clear vision: to provide a platform for emerging filmmakers and actors to thrive.
The Journey Begins: A Vision for Change
Nicole’s journey began with her roots in casting, and it quickly blossomed into a comprehensive career in film and television production. Having served as an industry programmer at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where she played a pivotal role in launching the TIFF Rising Stars program, Nicole has always had an eye for raw, untapped talent. This experience, coupled with her extensive career in casting, set the foundation for her next big step, launching Motel Pictures Inc.
Founded with a mission to produce bold, thought-provoking, and commercially viable features, Motel Pictures Inc. offers a fresh perspective on cinema. Nicole’s work as both a producer and casting director allows her to bring together talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment for storytelling.
From Casting to Production
Through her unique role as both producer and casting director, she has the flexibility to develop, package, and bring films to life with a distinct vision.
The turning point came when Motel’s first feature film, The Other Half, was selected as one of the top ten English-language national feature film projects by Telefilm Canada in 2015. This recognition was a massive achievement, not only for Motel Pictures Inc. but also for Nicole, whose tireless dedication to producing meaningful work was beginning to pay off. The film’s success at the SXSW Film Festival in 2016, where it competed in the Narrative Feature Competition, further established Motel as a powerful player in the Canadian film scene.
Motel Pictures Inc.: A Platform for New Voices
Motel Pictures Inc. is more than just a production company; it is a champion for emerging talent. Nicole’s deep commitment to discovering new voices has led Motel to be recognized as a major advocate for diversity and inclusion in Canadian cinema. She has worked to ensure that marginalized voices are not only heard but celebrated.
The company’s second feature film, We Forgot to Break Up, further reflects this commitment. Set in the indie music scene of the late 90s and early 00s, it explores themes of identity, love, and self-expression. The film features a cast that includes artists bringing attention to stories that are often overlooked in mainstream cinema. This dedication to inclusive storytelling is something that Nicole has been passionate about throughout her career, and Motel Pictures continues to be a platform for such narratives.
It has been nominated for numerous prestigious awards, including the Canadian Screen Awards and the Directors Guild of Canada (DGC) Awards, cementing its place as a powerful piece of cinematic art.
Industry Recognition: A Track Record of Success
Nicole’s work has not gone unnoticed. Throughout her career, she has earned multiple nominations and awards that highlight her expertise in casting and production. Her achievements also extend beyond the Canadian borders, with recognition at the Primetime Emmy Awards in 2007 for Outstanding Casting for a Miniseries, Movie, or Special for The Path to 9/11. Notably, she received recognition at the 2021 Canadian Screen Awards for her achievement in casting for Akilla’s Escape and was nominated for a Canadian Screen Award in 2023 for her work on The Swearing Jar.
In 2024, she was nominated for the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and leadership in the film industry.
But it is not just the accolades that define Nicole’s career. Her ability to raise financing, develop projects from the ground up, and consistently deliver exceptional films sets her apart in a competitive industry.
What Sets Motel Pictures Inc. Apart?
Motel Pictures Inc. stands out not only for its commitment to empowering emerging talent but also for its ability to seamlessly combine the art of casting with the craft of producing. Nicole’s ability to identify talent, coupled with her keen aesthetic sensibility, allows her to deliver films that resonate with both critics and audiences. She is a force multiplier in the field.
What truly distinguishes Motel is its unwavering commitment to inclusion and diversity. In every project, Nicole and her team strive to amplify voices that have traditionally been marginalized in the industry. Whether through the selection of actors, the themes explored, or the stories told, Motel Pictures Inc. is creating a cinematic space where all voices are valued and celebrated in front of and behind the camera.
Continuing to Innovate
Looking to the future, Motel Pictures Inc. continues to push boundaries and explore new opportunities for growth. With a strong foundation of internationally recognized projects, the company is positioned to make a significant impact on both the Canadian and global film industries.
Nicole’s dedication to discovering new talent, combined with Motel’s focus on producing high-quality films, ensures that the company will remain a key player in the years to come. As the industry evolves, Motel Pictures will continue to adapt, embracing new technologies, storytelling techniques, and emerging talent to maintain its position at the forefront of independent cinema.
Why You Should Care About Motel Pictures Inc.
Motel Pictures Inc. is more than just a production company, it is a force for change in the film industry. Under Nicole Hilliard-Forde’s leadership, the company has become a hub for emerging talent and inclusive storytelling. With critically acclaimed films under its belt and numerous industry accolades, Motel Pictures Inc. is poised to continue making waves in the world of cinema.
If you’re looking for fresh, provocative, and commercially viable films that shine a light on underrepresented voices, Motel Pictures Inc. is the company to watch. Stay tuned for the next chapter in the remarkable journey of Motel Pictures Inc.
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