TORONTO, CANADA, September 16, 2006 – It was announced today that Maple Pictures’ upcoming release DEATH OF A PRESIDENT was awarded the Prize of the International Critics (FIPRESCI Prize) at the 2006 Toronto International Film Festival.

The prize is awarded annually by a jury of International critics to a film by an emerging filmmaker, making its world premiere at the Festival.

DEATH OF A PRESIDENT is the directorial effort of Gabriel Range, who co-wrote the script with Simon Finch. It is a groundbreaking thriller that skilfully recreates the fictitious assassination of George W. Bush in the near future. Leading up to its world premiere at TIFF, the film has been the subject of much debate.

“We at Maple Pictures are proud of the recognition bestowed upon Gabriel Range and his bold filmmaking, “ said John Bain, SVP of Distribution for Maple Pictures. “It’s clear that DEATH OF A PRESIDENT is already living up to high expectations.”

Co-Presidents Laurie May and Brad Pelman agree, “The awarding of the FIPRESCI Prize is an honour and we’re thrilled that the International Federation of Film Critics has chosen to recognise this groundbreaking work by Gabriel Range.”