With its breathtaking landscapes, state-of-the-art facilities, and welcoming film community, Calgary has become a sought-after destination for filmmakers from around the world. From epic Hollywood blockbusters to critically acclaimed TV shows, the Calgary region has played host to some of the most iconic productions in modern cinema. Let’s explore what makes Calgary such a desirable location for filming and highlight some of the top projects that have been shot in this stunning area.
Why Calgary is a Filmmaking Hub
Calgary’s allure as a film destination goes beyond its majestic natural beauty. The city offers a diverse range of landscapes, including the towering Rocky Mountains, vast prairies, and urban settings, making it incredibly versatile for any type of production. Here’s why filmmakers keep coming back to Calgary:
Spectacular Landscapes: Calgary’s proximity to the Canadian Rockies provides stunning backdrops perfect for everything from sweeping historical dramas to thrilling adventure films.
Film-Friendly Infrastructure: The region boasts experienced local crews, high-quality production facilities, and a supportive film community, making it easy for filmmakers to bring their visions to life.
Incentives and Cost Savings: Alberta’s government offers attractive tax incentives and grants for film and TV productions, making it a cost-effective option compared to other major film hubs.
These advantages have made Calgary a top choice for a wide range of film and television projects.
Top Productions Filmed in Calgary and Surrounding Areas
1. The Last of Us (TV Show by HBO, 2023)
One of the most high-profile productions to film in Calgary is HBO’s The Last of Us, a TV adaptation of the acclaimed video game series. This show has been praised for its authentic portrayal of a post-apocalyptic world, and Calgary’s diverse landscapes provided the perfect setting.
Key Locations: Filming took place across various Alberta locations, including downtown Calgary, which was transformed into a desolate urban wasteland. The production also utilized stunning areas in Canmore and the foothills of the Rockies.
Impact on Local Industry: The show’s large-scale production boosted the local economy, employing numerous local crew members and generating excitement among residents and fans.
The success of The Last of Us has put Calgary on the map as a viable location for large-scale, visually demanding projects.
2. The Revenant (2015)
Alejandro González Iñárritu’s The Revenant, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, is another notable film that showcased Alberta’s wild and unforgiving terrain. The movie, known for its intense realism and stunning visuals, used Calgary’s rugged wilderness to depict the brutal journey of frontiersman Hugh Glass.
Challenges: The cast and crew faced harsh weather conditions and logistical challenges while shooting in remote locations. However, these difficulties paid off, as the breathtaking landscapes and immersive realism contributed to the film’s critical acclaim.
Filming Locations: Kananaskis Country and the Bow Valley were prominently featured, providing a hauntingly beautiful backdrop.
The film went on to win multiple Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Actor for DiCaprio.
3. Interstellar (2014)
Christopher Nolan’s sci-fi epic Interstellar used Calgary’s landscapes to represent alien worlds and Earth’s changing environment. The Alberta scenes added a grounded realism to the film’s exploration of space and time.
Key Scenes: Parts of the film were shot in the Alberta prairies, which doubled as the desolate, blighted farmland of Earth. The vast, open landscapes highlighted the film’s themes of isolation and survival.
Visual Impact: The contrast between Earth’s struggling environment and the boundless mysteries of space was beautifully captured, making the film a visual masterpiece.
Interstellar’s use of Alberta’s terrain showcased how versatile Calgary can be for sci-fi and adventure films.
4. Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Ang Lee’s Brokeback Mountain, a groundbreaking film about the emotional complexities of love, used Calgary and its surrounding areas to portray the American West. The film’s breathtaking landscapes played a significant role in the storytelling.
Iconic Locations: The film was shot in Kananaskis Country and the foothills of the Rockies, capturing the sweeping beauty and solitude that defined the characters’ experiences.
Why Calgary: The natural beauty of Alberta’s mountains and valleys provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s intimate yet expansive narrative.
Brokeback Mountain received critical acclaim and numerous awards, cementing Calgary’s reputation as a prime filming destination.
5. Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)
Ghostbusters: Afterlife used various locations around Calgary to bring a fictional small town to life. The film pays homage to the original Ghostbusters while adding a new twist to the beloved franchise.
Key Filming Spots: Filming took place in and around Calgary, including areas like Fort Macleod and Drumheller. The small-town vibe and wide-open spaces perfectly matched the film’s setting.
Local Impact: The production sparked interest and tourism, with fans visiting Alberta to see where the film was shot.
Ghostbusters: Afterlife showed how Calgary could be used to represent fictional, atmospheric settings with a sense of nostalgia.
6. Fargo (TV Series)
The hit Fargo TV series often used Calgary and nearby towns to replicate the look and feel of the Midwest. The show’s creators took full advantage of Alberta’s unpredictable weather to enhance the series' dark and gritty atmosphere.
Authenticity: Calgary’s snowy, expansive landscapes served as the perfect stand-in for the series’ Minnesota setting.
Weather Challenges: The unpredictable weather added to the realism of the show, but it also required a flexible and resourceful production team.
The show’s critical and commercial success demonstrated Calgary’s suitability for long-running TV productions.
The Growing Appeal of Calgary for Filmmakers
In recent years, Calgary has seen a surge in film and television productions. Investments in infrastructure, such as soundstages and post-production facilities, have made the city even more appealing. The local film industry has also benefited from collaborations with major studios, bringing new opportunities for local talent and businesses.
Rising Popularity: With high-profile projects like The Last of Us and ongoing TV series, Calgary continues to gain recognition in the global film community.
Testimonials: Filmmakers often praise Calgary’s cooperative film community, stunning scenery, and cost-effective resources.
These factors are helping Calgary solidify its place as a premier location for filmmakers.
Unique Filming Locations in Calgary
Calgary offers a wealth of unique spots that make it a dream location for filmmakers:
The Bow River: A serene and picturesque river that adds a touch of natural beauty to any scene.
Kananaskis Country: A favorite for historical and action films, offering rugged terrain and dramatic mountain views.
Calgary’s Urban Skyline: The city’s modern architecture provides a striking contrast to Alberta’s natural beauty, making it ideal for urban stories.
These diverse locations ensure that filmmakers can achieve a variety of looks, from pastoral to metropolitan.
Film Incentives and Support in Alberta
Alberta offers a range of incentives to attract film productions, including tax credits and grants. Programs like the Alberta Media Fund support projects of all sizes, making it financially attractive for studios to shoot in the region.
Government Support: Alberta Film works closely with production companies, providing assistance throughout the filmmaking process.
Local Expertise: The availability of experienced local crews and equipment rentals further enhances Calgary’s appeal.
These incentives make Calgary an affordable yet high-quality choice for filmmakers.
Challenges of Filming in Calgary
While Calgary has much to offer, it isn’t without its challenges:
Unpredictable Weather: Alberta’s weather can change rapidly, requiring productions to be adaptable and well-prepared.
Logistics of Remote Locations: Filming in the Rockies or remote prairies can present logistical hurdles, such as transporting equipment and ensuring crew safety.
Despite these challenges, the rewards of filming in such a stunning location often outweigh the difficulties.
The Future of Filmmaking in Calgary
With a growing number of projects choosing Calgary, the future of filmmaking in the region looks bright. Upcoming productions and expanding infrastructure, like new soundstages, are set to make Calgary an even more desirable location.
Local Film Festivals: Events like the Calgary International Film Festival are helping to promote the city’s creative talent and attract more filmmakers.
Continued Growth: As more directors and studios discover Calgary’s potential, the region is poised to become an even more significant player in the global film industry.
The combination of natural beauty, industry support, and ongoing investment makes Calgary a promising destination for filmmakers.
Conclusion
Calgary’s impact on the film industry is undeniable, offering a rich tapestry of landscapes, a supportive infrastructure, and memorable filming experiences. From the harsh beauty of The Revenant to the eerie, post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us, Calgary continues to captivate filmmakers and audiences alike. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or a filmmaker looking for your next location, Calgary’s cinematic charm is worth exploring.
Kyle Barber
Owner of Cineva
