Ontario’s Film Industry Poised for Hollywood’s Return Post-Strikes: A Promising Comeback
Executives at Ontario Creates, Karen Thorne-Stone, and Justin Cutler, are spearheading efforts to revitalize the province’s film industry after the writers’ and actors’ strikes in Los Angeles. They emphasize the establishment of new studios, workforce development, and eco-friendly initiatives as key factors in ensuring cost-effectiveness for returning studios and streamers.
Despite the temporary slowdown in Hollywood production in Ontario and the absence of A-listers at the Toronto Film Festival due to ongoing strikes in Los Angeles, Ontario’s production sector remains resolute in reclaiming its status as a premier hub for film and TV shoots. Ontario Creates, responsible for promoting the province to major studios and streamers, is at the forefront of this resurgence.
“Preparations are well underway to welcome back these productions,” affirms Karen Thorne Stone, President and CEO of Ontario Creates. The province had witnessed a surge in production activity before the strikes, with substantial investments in new studios, an expanded and highly skilled workforce, and eco-sustainability measures geared towards ensuring a seamless return to foreign production after the strikes.
In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Thorne-Stone and Cutler shed light on the strategies to reinvigorate American production post-strikes, focusing on Ontario’s currency savings and film tax credits, crucial incentives for U.S. producers.
While uncertainties surround the budget allocations of significant studios, Ontario’s appeal lies in its seamless business environment. “We possess the talent, crews, competitive tax incentives, and eco-friendly features to present a compelling case for productions to choose Ontario,” asserts Justin Cutler, Ontario’s Film Commissioner.
Furthermore, Ontario has made significant strides in workforce development, collaborating with institutions and industry partners to bridge skill gaps. Initiatives like the production accountants program, developed in partnership with York University and Cinespace Studios, have yielded promising results. The effort extends to regional workforce development, ensuring a steady supply of trained individuals across the province.
Ontario is emphasizing the diverse career opportunities available within the film industry to entice young talent. The stability, year-round employment prospects, and lucrative nature of these jobs are key selling points for long-term careers.
Ontario is also leading in environmental initiatives with its Green Screen program, focused on reducing carbon footprints and promoting a circular economy within the film industry. Project Green, a pilot initiative, has already demonstrated significant material savings and environmental benefits.
The province’s animation and visual effects sector is gaining prominence, attracting global collaborations and ventures. Additionally, Ontario is equipped with virtual production capabilities, offering a range of options for productions of different scales.
Recognizing Ontario’s ascent as one of North America’s top five production hubs, alongside established players like British Columbia and Los Angeles, is crucial for returning American productions. Recent regulatory changes, making online-only shows eligible for tax credits, further reinforce Ontario’s commitment to remain at the forefront of the industry.
In conclusion, Ontario’s film industry is poised for a robust resurgence post-strikes, with strategic investments, a skilled workforce, and eco-conscious initiatives positioning it as an attractive destination for Hollywood productions.
