February 10, 2023 | In The Community

HAMILTON’S BOOMING FILM & TELEVISION INDUSTRY

Written By: Rachel VanDuzer

Over the past couple of years, Hamilton has become an incredibly popular location for the production of film and television in Ontario. There are a number of reasons why film productions choose to film in Hamilton; the city offers diverse architecture and easy access to both industrial and rural landscapes. The downtown core also has a classic cosmopolitan feel, but not one where productions are forced to navigate an incredibly busy city, such as Toronto. In 2022, the City of Hamilton issued 986 film permits which the Hamilton Spectator reported as a 21 percent increase from 2021. Not only has this aided Ontario’s economic recovery but it has also created countless employment opportunities as well, spurring specifically from Aeon Studio Group’s Bayfront Studios and the future expansion of Hamilton’s West Harbour “Studio District”.

When speaking of the film industry in Hamilton, Ontario it’s difficult not to reference productions that have been filmed here in the past — from the Netflix series The Umbrella Academy, to Handmaid’s Tale, as well as several Guillermo del Toro films such as The Shape of Water, Crimson Peak and most recently, Nightmare Alley. Beyond Hamilton’s extensive resume of film and television productions (and the strong possibility of running into a celebrity on James St. N), it is important to mention the opportunity available to homeowners in Ontario — your home could very well be the next filming location in Hamilton!

Before a production can begin filming, a location scout will typically visit the city to find and secure locations that best suit the scenes of the given production. Another incredible resource at their disposal is Ontario Creates, which is a provincial agency striving to be a catalyst for economic development, investment and collaboration in Ontario’s creative industries. Their website offers the Ontario Locations Library which is a database of various filming locations across Ontario. Registering your property as a filming location is easily done by inquiring with the locations library at Ontario Creates and sharing some photos and details about your property. While this is an opportunity for all homeowners in Ontario, I strongly encourage homeowner’s in Hamilton to consider this opportunity due to the city’s record breaking year for film and television volumes in 2022.

Once your property is registered, it is at your sole and absolute discretion as to what projects you wish to take on. Don’t want to have film crews filming inside your house? Consider taking on projects that only require the exterior of your home! This is an incredible opportunity to make a passive income on your own terms. Hamilton most recently welcomed Hollywood stars, including Richard Gere, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Nicolas Cage — who knows, maybe they will be filming at your home next!

Are you thinking of buying or selling in Hamilton? Whether you’re ready to act or just have a few questions, we are here for you! Reach out by emailing hello@theoreillygroup.ca or call 905-512-5323 to connect with us today.