Casting call issued for Nova Scotia properties
Film corporation ready to add to database of possible movie locations
You may not become a movie star, but your home might.
Film and Creative Industries Nova Scotia is looking for properties it can list as possible filming locations for producers.
Melanie Solomon, a locations officer for the Crown corporation, says the database already contains more than 5,000 unique images.
"That may seem high for some, but it gives us an opportunity to provide images throughout Nova Scotia for producers and directors that are considering Nova Scotia for their next production," she said.
The film corporation is looking for anything and everything that might attract a producer’s attention.
"From warehouses to condos, newly built homes to rustic farm houses, all properties are valuable in attracting production to the province," Solomon said.
Sue Uteck lives in Halifax. The former city councillor helped develop the film policy for shooting in the municipality. Her previous home on Atlantic Street was the set for several productions, from commercials to short films. It was even featured in the Shipping News, a Hollywood movie starring Kevin Spacey.
Uteck says her home had several features that producers seemed to like.
"It had higher ceilings," she said. "The main floor was built for my late husband Larry. It's all wheelchair accessible, so you can shoot this house from three different angles, which is very appealing to a film crew."
Solomon says every property that can be used as a set for a film can generate economic benefits for the province. Nova Scotia is a suitable stand-in for New England, New York and other areas, she notes.
"Last year alone, for example, there was $139 million in production activity that was generated in Nova Scotia, which is a testament to the locations that we have available here," Solomon said.
Uteck has advice for property owners: read the contract with the production company.
"Are they running off a generator or are they running off your power? What is the situation for the film and crew for lunch? Are they using your barbecue to feed the crew or is it an offsite location?" she said.
Property owners interested in listing their properties can apply on the Film and Creative Industries Nova Scotia website.