Winnipeg, Canada, has quietly emerged as a burgeoning film production hub, attracting major projects and talent from around the globe. The city’s combination of world-class facilities, competitive tax incentives, lucrative exchange rates (if applicable) and diverse locations has made it a sought-after destination for filmmakers.
A prime example of Winnipeg’s rising star is Big Sky Studios, opened in 2022. This state-of-the-art facility boasts four large soundstages, offering filmmakers unparalleled flexibility and convenience. Its comprehensive range of amenities, including production offices, wardrobe departments, mill shops, paint booths, support space and ample parking, has attracted numerous productions.
Manitoba’s generous tax incentives provide filmmakers with a significant competitive advantage, with two attractive tax credit options to choose from. The first covers up to 65% of eligible labor costs, while the second provides up to 38% as an all-spend tax credit on qualifying expenses, making the city a strong draw for both domestic and international productions. Coupled with a streamlined application process and additional incentives for rural or remote shoots, Winnipeg’s appeal as a production hub has become further enhanced.
Winnipeg’s diverse landscapes, ranging from prairies and tundra to beaches, rolling hills and forests, offer endless possibilities for filmmakers. The city’s proximity to various locations allows for seamless transitions between different settings, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of productions.
Beyond its facilities and incentives, Winnipeg’s welcoming community and supportive ecosystem have contributed to its success as a film production hub. Local talent, crew, and businesses have played a vital role in supporting the industry’s friendly growth.
Just ask David Krumholtz, who spent his summer filming the horror film Altar in Winnipeg while simultaneously falling in love with the city.
“Everyone seems to know everything about filming here, which is exactly what you want when you’re putting crews together,” Krumholtz said.
Known for his roles in Oppenheimer, The Santa Clause franchise, and 10 Things I Hate About You, Krumholtz praised Manitoba for offering one of the highest tax credits in North America, which has enabled the ongoing infiltration of film productions into the area.
“They’ve been filming [movies] here for a while, but now that they’ve ratcheted up the tax credit, I imagine that this town’s going to get really crowded, really quick with a lot of smart people who want the very best for the town,” the veteran actor said.
Krumholtz can’t help but gush over the treatment he’s received since stepping foot in Winnipeg, and said he’s found the city to be a safe and inviting place.
“[Winnipeg] has the most welcoming people I’ve ever met, really,” he said. “I know that’s a bold statement, but it’s true. I just love how cool, calm and collected [everyone is].”
So would Krumholtz be open to returning to Winnipeg for a future project?
“I really like it here,” he said. “If a [studio] were to come to me and say, ‘we’re going to shoot a series in Winnipeg’, I’d jump at the chance.”
As the film industry continues to evolve, Winnipeg’s reputation as a premier destination is only set to grow. With its world-class facilities, competitive tax incentives, and diverse locations, Winnipeg offers filmmakers a thriving environment to bring their visions to life.
