Canada’s Film and T.V. Industry Anticipates a Comeback as American Production Resumes

In Brief3
• Canadian film and T.V. industry players anticipate the return of American production to their shores, following a deal between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.
• Before the strikes, Vancouver’s Hollywood production was booming; however, revival is complicated by major Hollywood studios facing multiple international locations and tight budgets.
• To restart productions quickly, existing sets and soundstages are essential.
• American projects are expected to establish production offices by the end of the year and begin filming in early 2024.
• Canada looks forward to welcoming Hollywood back, with increased production activity projected for spring 2024.

The end of the actors’ strike has brought a sense of relief to Canadian film and T.V. players, who are now eagerly awaiting the return of American production to their shores. The recent tentative deal between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers has sparked conversations in major production hubs like Toronto and Vancouver about when and how Hollywood will make its comeback.

However, it won’t be as simple as flipping a switch. The major studios still face challenges and financial pressures after the strikes, especially with the rise of streaming platforms. Nonetheless, there is excitement about the future, with Dufferin Gate Studios in Toronto already receiving inquiries from Los Angeles producers for 2024 projects.

Prem Gill, CEO of Creative B.C., acknowledges that reviving the industry on both sides of the U.S.-Canadian border will take time, particularly with the upcoming holiday season. There are many factors to consider, such as talent availability and schedules. But despite the complexities, Canada remains optimistic about its role in the global entertainment landscape.

Before the strikes, Vancouver’s Hollywood production levels were booming. However, the revival of the Canadian industry is further complicated by major Hollywood players dealing with multiple international locations and tight budgets.

Garin Josey, executive VP and COO of William F. White emphasizes the importance of pre-existing sets and soundstages in restarting productions quickly. Meanwhile, other American projects are expected to establish production offices by the end of the year and begin filming in early 2024.

This uncertain period has been challenging for Canadian production players, who rely heavily on California studios. However, they hope the Americans will return in full force, with a projected increase in spring 2024.

Overall, Canada eagerly awaits the revival of its film and T.V. industry, ready to welcome back Hollywood and showcase its production capabilities.