The depiction of Calgary in films and the success of the Oscar-winning 'Brokeback Mountain', Oscar-nominated 'Inception' and the Emmy-nominated 'Into the West' have raised Calgary's profile.

Film makers around the world are realizing the Calgary advantage and using the city as a back drop for their productions. Many films are shot on location, using real scenery to tell their stories. Calgary has many desirable locations, from distinctive architecture to unique cityscapes that create just the right atmosphere for any scene.

While exciting, these productions can be disruptive for communities. Often traffic and access to parking are affected. To help out, Calgary Economic Development (CED) has initiated Behind the Scenes, Calgary's film friendly initiative. This program connects the film and television industry with our communities to bring stories to life.

The big picture

• An average Calgary-based production spends approximately $90,000 daily
• 85% of Alberta's film industry is based in the Calgary Region.
• 95% of the people employed by a production live in the Calgary Region.
• Over 3,000 Calgarians are employed in the film & television industry
• Jobs include: actors, camera operators, sound and lighting technicians, caterers, plumbers, carpenters, animal trainers, truck drivers, make-up artists, graphic artists, photographers, set designers, painters.
• Production spending impacts a broad range of sectors including accommodations, restaurants, retail, building material suppliers, grocery stores, office supplies, furniture stores, dry cleaning, travel agents and businesses and homes as locations.
• Film is a green business
• Film locations boost tourism and investment
• The Calgary Region has been transformed into Afghanistan, Mexico, Las Vegas, Vietnam and New York City

Behind the Scenes is a collaboration between CED, industry, government and community stakeholders. By working together these groups will help the local film and television industry establish trust and open communication with the communities they are working in.

For more information about this program contact:

Lissa Craig
Film Permit Coordinator
Calgary Economic Development
T 403.221.7829| F 403.221.7828 
lissa@calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com

Behind the Scenes partners