Victoria’s film industry is poised for a big break.
A production company with major Hollywood connections has struck a potential deal that could lead to the construction of Vancouver Island’s only permanent film studio.
Pretty Clever Entertainment, a company that produces unscripted dramas and documentaries, is in talks with the Capital Regional District to convert a former food storage facility in Esquimalt.
“I have been in L.A. and been commuting back and forth from Canada for almost 20 years, and when I came back up here six months ago I couldn’t believe there was no industry still on the island,” said Margaret Judge. “Especially with what’s going on in Vancouver and the surplus of television and film taking place.”
Judge said she’s made an offer on the 60,000-square-foot warehouse in Esquimalt that is currently owned by the CRD.
“Our goal is to have five stages and then we also have to have offices,” she said.
For its part, the CRD is hoping to cash in on a little movie magic.
“Getting a foothold, we understand from the industry, is important in terms of having a place to do the indoor work that needs to be done,” said Esquimalt Mayor Barb Desjardins.
TV and film productions have rented warehouse space locally before, but this location offers a permanent solution – and Victoria’s film commission says it’s sorely needed in a slow year for productions on the island.
“What this will prove is that, yes, we have the crew, we have the infrastructure…to take on the big guys,” said Kathleen Gilbert, South Island Film Commissioner.
The commission says the studio has potential to churn out consistent multi-million dollar shoots – and good jobs.
Building it will mean taking a deal in pre-production and giving it the Hollywood green light, which could come as soon as next month.
