Calgary is best known for the majestic, awe-inspiring scenery central to the imagery and imagination evoked by the frontier of the untamed west. Yet, Calgary's remarkably diverse geography makes it a very popular setting for a vast range of productions. From the deserts of Afghanistan, to the battlefields of feudal Japan, to a trendy restaurant in Beverly Hills, to New York City, Calgary is a chameleon able to play a wide spectrum of roles. Summer, winter, spring or fall.

Latest news and events

In 2011, the focus for Calgary Economic Development when it comes to film, television and creative industries has been around promoting the talent that exists in Calgary and Alberta. CED created a local advertising campaign, which ran in Calgary Transit buses and C-train cars and on Pattison outdoor billboards, highlights just how talented our local crews are. To date, Calgary region crews have amassed more Oscar, Emmy and Golden Globe nominations than any other jurisdiction in Canada. This is a significant statistic when you compare Calgary to larger cities better known for their film industries, such as Toronto or Vancouver.

These award-winning crews, coupled with the scenic and architecturally interesting locations available for filming, have made Calgary the location of choice for some key productions. CBC’s series Heartland continues to film in the Calgary region and is currently shooting its fifth season. In addition, from April to August 2011, the U.S. cable channel AMC selected Calgary as the location to film its highly-anticipated new series, Hell on Wheels. Set in post-Civil War America, the series stars screen veteran Colm Meaney, Anson Mount and rapper/actor Common and is scheduled to premiere in November. Add on top of this other foreign productions, as well as a growing local industry of filmmakers and storytellers.

Calgary Economic Development, through its Behind the Scenes program, is also continuing to support the local film industry through the monthly Shaw TV series Behind the Scenes, as well as sponsorship of various festivals throughout the year, including the Calgary International Film Festival, the Calgary Underground Film Festival and the $100 Film Festival (to name a few).

In July 2011, The City of Calgary announced that it had confirmed $10 million in funding towards the Alberta Creative Hub, a purpose-built sound stage facility and digital media centre. A draft offer to purchase land at Canada Olympic Park was submitted and approved by WinSport Canada’s board, and CED and the Alberta Creative Hub Corporation is currently securing additional funding.

The Alberta Creative Hub has significant industry support, and it is a much needed facility that will continue to increase production levels in the city and province, and continue to grow the return on investment and diversification of Calgary and Alberta’s economy.

Film outreach
Calgary Economic Development continues to actively market Calgary as the location for film, television and creative industries. Through the work of Luke Azevedo, Calgary Commissioner for Film, Television and Creative Industries, CED is ensuring Calgary has a presence at various industry conferences and exhibitions, both nationally and internationally. In addition, the Commissioner and Creative Industries team conducts regular outreach meetings with film and television studios and production companies across Canada and the United States. For more information, contact Luke Azevedo at 403.221.7868.

Resources to help you film in Calgary

• The Calgary Film Commissioner is committed to helping you find the perfect location for your next production.
• Location assistance and scouting for your initial visit
• Knowledge and information for accommodation, transport and logistics
• Relationships with government, councils, companies and individuals to assist you before, during and after production
• Strong partnerships with our First Nation Communities
• Script breakdown, location packages and contact information
• Industry liaison with local unions and guilds
• One-stop permit applications for shooting in the Calgary Region

Film

Fast Facts, 2010

Source: Statistics Canada

City of Calgary Operating Principles

Film Friendly Operating Principles Mar 09.pdf - 52KB