Madison Thomas, a multidisciplinary artist and storyteller, has garnered recognition for her unique voice and innovative approach to filmmaking. Dubbed a "Manitoba Maverick" and one of "5 Filmmakers to Watch" by Playback Magazine in 2019, Thomas has built a reputation for pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.
Growing up in Winnipeg's North-end neighbourhood, Thomas credits her diverse upbringing, local arts scene, and mixed-race family for shaping her perspective and artistic values. As an Ojibwe/Saulteux woman and off-reserve member of Pine Creek First Nation, Thomas is proud to share her heritage and experiences.
Thomas's journey in filmmaking began at Sisler High School's award-winning film program, where she became the program's first alumni upon graduation in 2009. She went on to study filmmaking at the University of Winnipeg and Prague Film School, honing her skills and developing her own voice as a filmmaker.
Thomas has trained under industry leaders through programs such as the Woman in the Director's Chair Program and the Canadian Academy Program for Female Directors. She has also become a member of the Director's Guild of Canada in 2020.
Thomas's film credits include "Zassaakwe - 'Shout with Joy'" (2018),"Colour of Scar Tissue" (APTN, 2018),"Shoot Your Shot" (2023),"Starbound" (2023),"Canadian National Film Day" "Imaginative Film Festival" "Ruthless Souls" (2019),"Telefilm Talent to Watch", "Berlin Film Festival Canadian Perspectives", "Taken" (2017),and "Finality of Dusk" (2023).
On television, Thomas has worked on "Burden of Truth" (2018-2021, CBC/CW),"Pretty Hard Cases" (CBC/Amazon 2021-2023),"Heartland" (2007-present, CBC),and "Allegiance" (2024-present).
When not working on her own projects, Thomas is a dedicated youth mentor, using film and storytelling as a teaching tool. She has taught workshops across Canada and as far as New Zealand, and is committed to reducing barriers and increasing accessibility in the arts.
As the founder of High Five Freddie Inc, Thomas is set to release self-produced projects and collaborations in 2025, solidifying her position as one of the most compelling and versatile filmmakers working today.
