Calgary climbs to fourth best filmmaking city in North America in 2026

Calgary’s rise as a major centre for film and television production continues to gain international recognition after the city was ranked the fourth best place to live and work as a filmmaker in North America by MovieMaker Magazine for 2026.

The latest ranking marks the sixth consecutive year Calgary has appeared on the prestigious list, further cementing the city’s growing reputation as one of the continent’s leading production hubs for both international studios and independent filmmakers.

Industry leaders say the recognition reflects years of investment in local talent, infrastructure and incentives that have transformed Calgary into a destination capable of hosting productions of every scale.

Calgary Film Commissioner Adnaan Wasey said the ranking demonstrates what production companies are already experiencing when they work in the city.

He said Calgary offers filmmakers an unmatched mix of diverse filming locations, experienced production crews and a supportive business environment that allows creative projects to move efficiently from concept to screen.

Wasey added that moving into fourth place shows Calgary is no longer simply competing with other North American production centres but is now firmly established as a premier destination for global film and television projects.

MovieMaker Magazine also highlighted Calgary’s growing popularity among location scouts and producers, noting the city’s ability to offer everything from modern urban skylines to prairies, mountains, badlands and rural landscapes within short travelling distances.

The publication described Calgary as a city that combines affordability with visual diversity, giving filmmakers access to cinematic backdrops that can double for multiple international locations.

The city has increasingly become a preferred filming location for major productions including Netflix’s My Life with the Walter Boys, MGM’s Billy the Kid and the long-running Canadian drama Heartland, which continues to film extensively across Alberta.

At the same time, industry officials say Calgary’s expanding production ecosystem is helping local independent filmmakers remain in the city to build careers rather than relocating to larger centres such as Vancouver, Toronto or Los Angeles.

The province’s competitive tax structure has also become a significant factor behind Alberta’s growing success in the entertainment industry.

Alberta currently offers a refundable Film and Television Tax Credit ranging from 22 to 30 per cent on eligible production expenses. When combined with federal tax credits and the absence of provincial sales tax, officials say productions are able to significantly reduce costs while maintaining high production standards.

The city’s profile received another boost in 2025 with the international success of Die My Love, filmed in and around Calgary and starring Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and later received multiple award nominations, bringing further global attention to Alberta’s production capabilities.

Industry analysts say major productions like these create long-term economic benefits by supporting local businesses, hiring skilled crews and creating opportunities for emerging Canadian talent.

Calgary is currently recognized as Canada’s fourth-largest film and television production centre, supporting thousands of jobs across cinematography, editing, visual effects, set construction, costume design and digital media.

Educational institutions including SAIT and Bow Valley College have also played an important role in strengthening the industry by training graduates in film production, animation and post-production technologies.

Beyond large studio productions, Calgary’s festival scene has helped nurture local storytelling and independent cinema. Events such as the Calgary International Film Festival and Calgary Underground Film Festival continue to attract filmmakers and audiences from around the world while showcasing regional talent.

The recognition from MovieMaker Magazine comes at a time when Alberta’s screen industry is seeing broader momentum across the province.

Edmonton also made the publication’s list for the first time this year, ranking 22nd among North American filmmaking destinations. Observers say the addition reflects Alberta’s growing strength as a province-wide production ecosystem capable of attracting both independent and large-scale international projects.

Officials with Calgary Economic Development say the latest ranking reinforces the city’s identity as a production-ready destination where creative ambition, skilled labour and economic opportunity intersect.

As global demand for streaming content and original productions continues to expand, Calgary’s film industry appears positioned for continued growth, with local leaders hoping the city can soon challenge the continent’s largest entertainment centres for even bigger productions and international investment.

Courtesy: calgaryeconomicdevelopment