Filming In Canada

Canada

From the vast, modern cities of Toronto and Vancouver, to unspoilt national parks and charming small towns, there are many potential filming locations across Canada. Landmarks such as the dramatic Niagara Falls and the snow-capped mountains of Banff have been used in many major productions, and the country has a thriving film and TV industry.

Canada is keen to welcome film and TV crews, and offers tax incentives to those filming in the country. That’s why so many American productions are filmed north of the border.

It’s usually pretty easy to get permits for basic shots, but if you want to do something more complex then it’s worth using the services of NEEDaFIXER CANADA to get the right paperwork.

We can also help with the sometimes confusing visa process, ensuring everyone has what they need to start work.

Filming in Canada

If you need local crew such as camera operators, drone pilots, runners, producers, or directors, then we can use our extensive network to find professionals that can work on your production.

If you film in cities like Vancouver or Toronto, then there are large numbers of locals who work in the industry, but if you want to film somewhere more remote then this can be a challenge. NEEDaFIXER can help you find a crew in Canada no matter where production is taking place.

Casting can also be a challenge in Canada, especially in more remote locations, but we can help you find actors for your production. We can e-mail showreels and other information on potential cast during the pre-production process, so you can make decisions before you arrive in Canada.

Many major Hollywood movies have been filmed around Canada. The Incredible Hulk was set in New York City but was actually filmed in Toronto, while in the movie Capote the town of Selkirk, Manitoba was used for filming scenes set in Kansas. Many areas of Canada closely resemble the USA, and NEEDaFIXER CANADA can help you find a location that’ll look right on film.

Fixers in Canada

There are many great filming locations across Canada, from urban to rural, and it’s usually pretty easy to get permission in most areas. The cities of Vancouver and Toronto are colloquially known as Hollywood North due to the large number of productions that take place there, and so they’re used to welcoming international crews.

Toronto is home to Pinewood and Revival 629 studios, while the Vancouver Film Studios is the largest production facility, bar those in Los Angeles, in North America.

Vancouver has been the backdrop for many TV shows including the X-Files, Supernatural, and Smallville, as well as many major movies. In Toronto, shows such as Falling Skies and Suits were produced, and the city is often used as a stand-in for New York. NEEDaFIXER CANADA can help find locations within these cities, or out in more remote areas, and arrange the logistics to make your production a success.

What can our fixers in Canada do for you?

If you’re filming in areas such as Niagara Falls or national parks, then NEEDaFIXER CANADA can help with the practicalities. Many major landmarks are popular with tourists, so you’ll need to sort out crowd control, and ensure the production doesn’t interfere with visitors.

We have experience with filming in tourist hotspots and can ensure all the permits are sorted, and the crew are ready to film from day one. Another challenge can be finding locations that look visually similar to American cities and towns. Our team have knowledge of many Canadian locations, from popular filming spots to more remote, untouched locations, so can offer their expert advice and guidance.

Popular Canadian Filming Locations

Some popular places for international productions to the film include:

Toronto

The city is often a stand-in for New York, and it’s often much easier to film here than in the Big Apple. American Psycho, The Incredible Hulk, and My Big Fat Greek Wedding were all set in New York, but filmed in a disguised Toronto.

Vancouver

Vancouver has been the setting for major productions such as Fifty Shades of Grey, The Cabin in the Woods, and Twilight movies. It has many locations for city shots and is in close proximity to unspoilt rural areas.

Located in the British Columbia region, Vancouver has a Los Angeles feel. With its cosmopolitan lifestyle, stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, filming in this North American gem is a wonderful experience.

Niagara Falls

The iconic Niagara Falls are a great place to film dramatic shots, and have been seen in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End and Blues Brothers 2000.

The Canadian Rockies

The breath-taking scenery of the Rockies created the perfect backdrop for Brokeback Mountain and many nature documentaries. You truly can’t beat the Rockies for scenery, and the mountains are known as a top destination in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions