Vancouver sets a record for film and TV productions in 2015

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Vancouver is backing up the stories we’ve been telling you lately about a stronger TV and film industry across the region.

The city says 2015 was a record year, with 40 per cent more productions over 2014. In fact, 26 feature films, 309 TV episodes, and 158 TV commercials were shot here last year.

And the city is confident things will continue trending upwards given film permits last month were up about one-third over what they were during the same time last January.

“We see firsthand the enormous positive impact on film and TV productions on our city every day,” says Mayor Gregor Robertson. “As one of Vancouver’s high-growth industries, film is a big contributor to our nation-leading economic growth. Vancouver is home to world-leading talent in the film industry and the City is committed to supporting all levels and aspects of production.”

All the production earned the city $710,000 in revenue for film and street-use permits alone.

“The Vancouver Film Office plays a key role managing the sustainability of one of our most valuable resources — Vancouver locations. The importance of Vancouver’s support for the industry cannot be underestimated when it comes to managing our reputation with clients from Los Angeles and around the world,” says Peter Leitch, Chair of The Motion Picture Production Industry Association.

One of the most recent flicks to give Vancouver more international attention is Deadpool, which is in theatres right now.

“Having just had the most successful box office weekend of my career as well as that of 20th Century Fox, I would like to say ‘thank you’ to the city that made this all happen — Vancouver. When originally looking for a city to shoot this film, Vancouver had the most attractive elements including an active and supportive film-friendly city staff, amazing locations, and well-experienced local crew,” says Deadpool Executive Producer John J. Kelly.