Mr. Speaker, Ararat director Atom Egoyan's film that deals with the question of the recognition of the Armenian genocide and the effects of the continued denial on the ancestors of the victims of the first genocide of the 20th century has taken five of its nine Genie Award nominations, including best picture at the 23rd annual Genies last night.
Arsinee Khanjian was named best actress for her role in
Ararat. Ararat's other Genies were for best supporting actor, Elias Koteas; musical score, Mychael Danna; and costume design, Beth Pasternak.
The success of the film is a tribute to the talents of both Atom and Arsinee and reflects the overwhelming support Ararat has gained from fans of Canadian films around the world.
Last May from Cannes Atom Egoyan sent me a note saying, “You're my hero”. We can all say, “Atom, you're a Canadian hero now”.
I know my fellow members of Parliament join me in extending congratulations to the cast and crew of Ararat for a great Canadian success story.