Calgary Rises to 4th Best City for Filmmakers in North America in 2026

Calgary continues to shine on the North American film scene, climbing to fourth place on MovieMaker Magazine’s 2026 list of the Best Places to Live and Work as a Filmmaker. This marks the city’s sixth consecutive year being recognized for its thriving film and television industry.

“Calgary offers a perfect mix of versatile locations, skilled crews, and a business-friendly environment,” said Adnaan Wasey, Calgary Film Commissioner. “This ranking shows that Calgary isn’t just competitive — it’s a top destination for filmmakers, whether they’re producing global series or launching their first feature locally.”

Why Calgary is a Top Choice for Filmmakers

Calgary’s rise in the rankings reflects its growing reputation as a hub for both independent creators and large-scale productions. Its diverse locations range from downtown urban streets to the stunning Rockies, prairies, and badlands, making it an ideal backdrop for any film or TV project.

Notable productions filmed in Calgary in 2025 include Netflix’s My Life with the Walter Boys, MGM’s Billy the Kid, and the long-running Canadian series Heartland. Calgary also made headlines with Die My Love, starring Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson, which premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and earned major international nominations.

Strong Film Infrastructure and Incentives

Calgary’s appeal goes beyond scenery. Alberta’s Film and Television Tax Credit offers a 22%–30% refundable credit on eligible production expenses. When combined with federal incentives, productions can secure significant savings. Additionally, Alberta has no provincial sales tax, maximizing production budgets.

The city also benefits from a deep pool of professional crews and a strong post-secondary pipeline, including programs at Bow Valley College and SAIT, specializing in animation, visual effects, and digital media.

Alberta’s Growing Film Ecosystem

Calgary is now Canada’s fourth-largest film and television production centre, anchoring most of Alberta’s screen industry activity. The province’s growing prominence is also reflected in Edmonton, which made its first-ever appearance on MovieMaker’s list at 22nd place, highlighting Alberta as a film-friendly jurisdiction in North America.

Local festivals like the Calgary International Film Festival and the Calgary Underground Film Festival provide additional platforms for indie filmmakers to showcase their work alongside global content, further strengthening the city’s creative ecosystem.

Calgary: A City Built for Film

From high-profile productions to independent projects, Calgary combines affordable, versatile locations, experienced crews, and competitive incentives, making it a top choice for filmmakers at every stage. Its rise to fourth place on MovieMaker’s list reinforces Calgary’s position as a cost-effective, production-ready city, where local talent thrives and international productions choose to shoot.