It’s no surprise, Covid-19 dramatically impacted the film and television industry. From temporary studio closures and delays to increased costs and safety protocols, bringing productions to the big or small screen was challenging to say the least. But there is a far larger issue on the horizon, arguably even more damaging to the industry as a whole, and it’s threatening the success of the next generation of talent and digital entertainment as we know it. 

As fan-favourites of the industry, big budget blockbuster films have put Vancouver, BC on the map, enticing aspiring creators across the globe with the opportunity to work in the big leagues. Earning the title, “Hollywood North” in the early 1980’s, the buzzing west coast seaport is home to the third largest film and television production centre in North America, hosting hundreds of movies, tv series, and features annually. However, while major players like Disney, Netflix, and Marvel continue to chase streaming revenue and box office receipts, the implications on production services and crew grow.

Inflation on the Rise

As the cost of living continues to rise, many Vancouver residents are being forced to examine their options. According to the Insights West Poll, 46 per cent of homeowners and 26 per cent of renters are considering moving to more affordable areas in B.C. Ranked as the number one most expensive city in Canada multiple years in a row, and placing at least top third over the last decade, it’s unlikely we will see this pattern change any time soon. In fact, according to a report from the Urban Reform Institute and the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, Vancouver broke a new record in 2021, ranking second-least affordable city globally, following Hong Kong.

Paired with high cost of living, facilities are also becoming increasingly hard to come by. For feature films and independent films alike, booking can be up to three years in advance and comes with a hefty cost. Even renting independent locations can be a challenge. 

While being interviewed as Acting Locations Manager for The Edge of Sleep in the Hollywood True North Documentary, Dan Code shared his experience working as a Director, Producer, and Filmmaker in Vancouver. “I was shooting a documentary for Netflix, and we had eight people who we wanted to put in a restaurant,” Code said, “[the restaurant in question had a] minimum of $15,000 for the day.”

The reality is, there will always be productions that can find what they need if budget is not an issue, but for independent and indie filmmakers with a small or micro-budget, “Hollywood North” may as well be at capacity. This presents some unique threats and challenges to future generations of creative filmmakers and storytellers who need hands-on training and experience. Grass roots productions are what sprout the trailblazers who inspire the next generation in the entertainment industry. 

What’s Next for Independent Filmmakers?

While complex issues cannot be resolved overnight, creativity will always be a driving force of the film industry and thinking outside of the box (or city limits) can offer some amazing solutions. 

Just a mere two-and-a-half-hour drive from Vancouver, is home to BC’s one true desert and a growing population of film industry experts, the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD).

With incredibly diverse landscapes, film-friendly communities, and high-quality facilities, Kamloops and the surrounding areas offer a unique alternative to the hustle, traffic congestion, and competitive nature of big cities.

With various terrain includes vast rolling grasslands, snow-capped mountains, lush forests, quaint neighborhoods, and unique architecture, there is truly no limit for locations the TNRD can represent on screen. 

“You put a little green screen just to block the city and you could be in Egypt, Rome, Afghanistan, the Himalayas” says Kane Mahon (Ramiz) while on set filming for the Canadian War Drama Red Snow, written and directed by acclaimed Metis Director and Producer, Marie Clements.

Offering filmmakers the full experiential package, the Thompson-Nicola Film Commission and Mastermind Studios have rapidly grown the local pool of trained and certified crew from fifty to almost five hundred in just a few years through ongoing training programs.  

Additionally, the TNRD is also rich with agencies ready to help make your production a success, including Askem Talent Agency and Kammywood Casting, TRAXX Coachlines, and Lux Loo. 

For indoor space rentals, Mastermind Studios has it all including a casting and audition stage, multiple green screen spaces, a soundstage, ATEM and post-production, hair and makeup, production offices, and more.

There is still so much left to be discovered here, and for only a few hours away, the TNRD region offers immense value at an affordable price. Ripe with fresh perspective and creativity, independent filmmakers can expect to be welcomed with open arms by communities enthusiastically committed to making their project a success.