Calgary on Camera: From Silent Films to Blockbusters and Beyond
Calgary’s landscape has long been a draw for filmmakers, offering a unique blend of urban settings and proximity to stunning natural environments. But what truly defines a “Calgary” film? Film critic Christopher Redmond, exploring Canadian movie history on his Substack Bon Shot Lousy Shot, has been tackling this question, and his research reveals a fascinating story of the city’s cinematic past.
Early Days: Pioneering Films and the Stampede
The story begins remarkably early. One of the first feature films shot in Canada, and the most successful silent film of its time, was Back to God’s Country (1919). Even as much of the filming took place near Lesser Slave Lake, the project was funded through fundraising within Calgary, with a rather scandalous promotional tactic involving the film’s star, Nell Shipman.
The burgeoning Calgary Stampede likewise quickly found its way onto the big screen. The Calgary Stampede (1925), starring rodeo champion Hoot Gibson, proudly showcased the annual event, which had recently become a yearly tradition.
The Challenge of Defining a “Calgary” Film
Redmond’s investigation highlights a common issue: many films *associated* with Calgary were actually shot elsewhere in Alberta. Productions frequently utilized the landscapes around Banff and Canmore while claiming a Calgary connection. Redmond defines a “Calgary” film by focusing on locations within a boundary roughly encompassing the city’s Ring Road.
Notable Films and Calgary’s On-Screen Presence
Several films have distinctly captured Calgary’s essence. Prime Cut (1972), a gritty crime thriller starring Gene Hackman and Lee Marvin, featured scenes filmed on Calgary’s Ninth Avenue and the Centre Street Bridge, even though the film was set in Kansas City. This offered a rare glimpse of Calgary on screen during a period when Canadian films were scarce.
Days of Heaven (1978), lauded for its cinematography, showcased the Alberta prairies, with the film’s ending shot at Calgary’s Heritage Park. The film remains influential among cinematographers for its stunning depiction of prairie landscapes.
Cool Runnings (1993), the popular Disney film inspired by the Jamaican bobsleigh team’s 1988 Winter Olympics debut in Calgary, is a clear example of a film intrinsically linked to the city. The Winter Olympics themselves provided a backdrop for the story.
More recently, Exit Wounds (2001), an action thriller starring Steven Seagal, featured explosive action sequences on the Centre Street Bridge and prominently displayed the Calgary Tower.
The Future of Calgary as a Filming Location
While Calgary has often played a supporting role, providing landscapes for stories set elsewhere, the city’s unique character and infrastructure continue to attract filmmakers. The Calgary Stampede, in particular, remains a recognizable and appealing location. The city’s growing film industry and support for local productions suggest a continued presence on the silver screen.
FAQ
What was the first feature film shot in Canada? Back to God’s Country (1919) is considered one of the first, and was partially filmed in Calgary.
Where was Brokeback Mountain filmed? While the story is set in Wyoming, much of Brokeback Mountain was filmed in the Alberta wilderness, including Kananaskis Country.
What film featured an action sequence on the Centre Street Bridge? The 2001 film Exit Wounds starring Steven Seagal, included a significant action sequence on the Centre Street Bridge.
Is the Calgary Stampede often featured in films? Yes, the Calgary Stampede has been featured in films like The Calgary Stampede (1925) and served as inspiration for Cool Runnings (1993).
Where can I learn more about Calgary’s film history? You can find Christopher Redmond’s deep dive on Calgary’s movie history on his Substack, Bon Shot Bad Shot.
Did you know? The Alberta Boot Company in Calgary has outfitted numerous movie stars with boots for their roles.
Pro Tip: Explore the Cowboy Trail to experience the western lifestyle and visit locations featured in films.
What are your favorite movies filmed in or about Calgary? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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