Make a Scene

CANADA'S MONIKER AS HOLLYWOOD NORTH has always been well-earned, but in recent years, Saskatchewan has quickly become one of the most sought-after filming locations in the country. Known for its vast, rolling prairies, iconic small towns and stunning natural beauty, the province is no longer just a backdrop — it’s an essential character in the films and television shows that have used it as their stage. According to Creative Saskatchewan, the provincial government’s feature film and television production grant has been pivotal in attracting filmmakers to the region. Since April 2023, more than $22 million has been allocated to productions, resulting in an economic output of $93 million and the creation of more than 900 jobs. This influx of productions underscores Saskatchewan’s emerging prominence in the entertainment industry.

STOP ONE:

Just Friends (2004)

To start a Saskatchewan filming tour, you can’t skip Ryan Reynolds. In the 2004 rom-com Just Friends, Reynolds, who would later go on to play Deadpool, brought his comedic charm to Regina. The film, which also stars Amy Smart and Anna Faris, includes several key locations filmed throughout the city. Regina’s timeless architecture and charming streets serve as the perfect backdrop for Reynolds' hilarious and heartwarming tale of high school humiliation and love gone awry. Some of the standout filming spots include the old University of Regina campus and the downtown area.

STOP TWO:

Chained (2012)

In 2012, the small town of Moose Jaw became a chilling setting for Chained, a psychological horror-thriller. Directed by Jennifer Lynch, the film starring Vincent D'Onofrio and Julia Ormond takes place in a remote location, with much of the eerie atmosphere stemming from the desolate beauty of the countryside. Moose Jaw’s rugged exterior and quiet streets amplified the film’s tension, making it an unforgettable stop on the shooting tour.

STOP THREE:

Stranded (2013)

The sci-fi horror film Stranded, starring Christian Slater, took viewers to the far reaches of space and a desolate Mars, but much of the film was shot on location in Regina. In 2013, the production team transformed Regina's industrial buildings and studio spaces into the harsh, otherworldly environments of Stranded. The juxtaposition of Saskatchewan’s calm, open spaces with the high-stakes drama of the film’s plot makes Regina’s contribution to this sci-fi horror both unexpected and memorable.

STOP FOUR:

Die Alone (2024)

Regina became the epicenter of horror once again with the 2024 zombie thriller Die Alone. This chilling film kicks off with an intense opening sequence filmed at the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Regina campus, a modern setting that contrasts against the post-apocalyptic chaos of the film. The cold, clinical campus offers a unique atmosphere for the early part of the story, setting the stage for a fast-paced survival tale.

STOP FIVE:

Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 2 (2024)

Starring Kevin Costner, the historical drama Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 2, explores the story of the American frontier, and Saskatchewan’s landscape is used to recreate some of the most dramatic and scenic moments of the Wild West. The province’s expansive prairies and rugged terrain are a natural fit for this sweeping saga, which showcases the province as the quintessential backdrop for a tale of pioneering spirit and struggle. With world-class locations and a growing talent pool, it’s clear that Hollywood North has a new gem to boast about. CAA