Vancouver Film and Television Blogging
byEver since the days of 21 Jump Street, I knew that shows were filmed and produced in Vancouver. In my more formative years, the X-Files was represented the pinnacle of Vancouver television production and after I ran into Arnold at TGIFriday’s on Robson and Burrard (that is now Red Robin) I finally understood that the film industry in Vancouver is a big deal.
In all honesty, running into the future Governator at a casual dining restaurant didn’t really cause any sort of epiphany, but it was symbolic at any rate.
The X-Files then went South, our Hard Rock Cafe and Planet Hollywood shutdown, and Vancouver returned to its role as a backdrop city (and New Westminster became the Bronx). Sure, I knew folks that worked in the industry – location scouts, production assistants, actors, etc. but it wasn’t until this year – when I became a guest author on a hyper mega global entertainment blog, that I truly had my eyes opened.
No matter the ups and downs, financial or otherwise, Vancouver has such a strong legacy of film and television and the future is only looking brighter. I’ve been exposed to industry galas, behind the scenes events, meet and greets, personal interviews, and with each experience my appreciation for the hard work of each individual involved just continues to grow.
Last night I went to the reception for the Western nominees for the 2008 Gemini Awards (for you Americans, think the Canadian Emmy’s). As like every other event I’ve attended recently, there was camaraderie, a wonderful sense of humour, and encouragement along with a a deep respect for peers.
I have also become very aware of Canadian independent film and television; the hard-working people behind it, those with a vision, and those that can create brilliant works that make you think, feel, learn, appreciate cultures, and sob uncontrollably – sometimes all on a small budget with which you couldn’t even purchase a brand new vehicle.
I’m certainly an outsider looking in, I fully admit that, but I suppose what I’m saying is that I’ve been grateful for my chance to explore this world a little deeper – all thanks to a blogging gig (and other bloggers), really.
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I had a huge crush on Johnny Depp during the 21 Jumpstreet days – and only during the 21 Jumpstreet days. I was at the Planetarium around that time with my family, and we saw Dustin Nyguen and Peter DeLouise from the show there too. My dad wanted to stake outside the bathroom until they came out so he could tell them how much he enjoyed 21 Jumpstreet. I was mortified.
@Keira-Anne Someday I’ll dig up the episode of 21 Jump Street where I was an extra in a few scenes with Mr. Depp….sadly my longer scenes were cut out so what’s left is pretty fleeting but it was a fun couple of days shooting.
I remember the days of walking by X-Files sets. It’s been a while since I’ve taken note of filming but I’m always aware it’s around – especially when you spot it in the movies (NW is VERY popular – the I, Robot crew left behing some benches along Columbia which the three laws of robotics inscribed in them – very cool).
I’ve always been a big supporter of Canadian film but over the last few years, with the help of other bloggers (you too Rebecca!) and groups like The First Weekend Club, getting the Canadian film fix is getting easier. It’s a group effort and we’re doing a pretty good job!
I’m so glad Tantoo Cardinal got the Women in Film & Television Vancouver Artistic Merit Award at the VIFF! (I got to chat with her on the way to the gala, and I proudly mentioned to her that we actually worked together on “Luna: Spirit of the Whale”!! My part was very small, however, and alas, my name doesn’t appear in the credits!!)
This is great for the Canadian film and Television industry. I work in Montreal for a post production studio and we our getting a lot more work these days as well. I think all of Canada seems to be doing alright in this industry these days. Good for us! We have just launched a high end VFX department to our already award winning sound studio. Please check out our new services and my blog that talks about the industry in general and features some of the projects that we have been working on. Keep up the great work
http://boogiestudio.com/blog/2010/10/18/boogie-studio-launches-a-high-end-vfx-division/
Cheers
Dale