The Thompson-Nicola Film Commission continues to cement the region’s role as a rising powerhouse in British Columbia’s motion picture industry. In a detailed presentation to the TNRD Board of Directors, Film Commissioner Terri Hadwin highlighted the economic impact of the industry, new technological investments, local success stories, and plans to build long-term infrastructure to sustain growth.

“We exist to support the economic growth of the film industry in our region—by enticing productions to come here and by facilitating growth from within,” Hadwin explained.

A Small Team with Big Impact

The Commission—made up of Hadwin, full-time staff member Katie, and part-time filmmaker Vesta Giles—serves as the region’s liaison for productions scouting locations across the Thompson-Nicola.

Their work includes showcasing locations, connecting productions with local crews, and ensuring visiting film teams have the resources they need. “We are the ambassadors,” Hadwin said. “Productions don’t know the region—but we do.”

Economic Contributions Outpacing Traditional Sectors

Provincially, the motion picture industry contributes more than $2 billion annually—outpacing sectors like forestry and trailing only slightly behind tourism. The industry saw a dip in 2023 due to strikes, but both federal and provincial governments have since ramped up their support.

A $450 million federal funding boost and increased provincial **tax incentives—from 28% to 36% plus regional bonuses—**are helping distant regions like the TNRD draw more projects.

Locally, internal calculations show millions in direct economic benefit from commercials, documentaries, and feature films. Commercials, in particular, generate significant revenue in short bursts—a trend the region continues to benefit from.

New Equipment Keeping Productions Local

One of the Commission’s newest advantages is a fleet of three electric generators purchased through a grant. Their “maiden voyage” powered the upcoming Netflix film My Secret Santa, premiering December 3.

“These generators are heavy-duty, whisper-quiet, and reduce emissions,” Hadwin said. “Until now, productions had to haul this equipment from Vancouver. Having them here eliminates that barrier.”

Investing in Talent and Attracting Funders

The Commission’s networking events and seminars are already producing results. Local filmmakers have secured collaborations, built teams, and in at least one case, a resident secured $250,000 in funding after connecting with a funder at a Film Commission event.

“Bringing industry professionals here creates opportunities that simply didn’t exist before,” Hadwin said.

The annual “Learn About Film” seminar and monthly networking sessions continue to attract participants from around the province—including Abbotsford, Williams Lake, and the Cariboo.

Showcasing Success on the Global Stage

Several major productions filmed in the TNRD have earned international recognition:

• Sugarcane — partially filmed in-region, reached the Oscars
• Edge of Sleep — filmed almost entirely in Kamloops
• Tracker — featured TNRD locations in its Super Bowl–adjacent premiere
• Get Fast — filmed 100% locally, with a premiere at the Paramount Theatre
• The Test — a documentary by local filmmaker Vesta Giles on Logan Lake’s FireSmart legacy

Directors praised Hadwin for bringing attention to the rural corners of the region. “I may not be a movie person,” one board member added, “but I sure appreciate what you do as an economic driver—especially for the rural areas that sometimes get forgotten.”

Future Growth Hinges on a Motion Picture Studio

The Commission’s biggest long-term goal is attracting an investor to build a regional motion picture studio.

“Our landscapes are stunning, but weather can be unpredictable,” Hadwin said. “A studio would allow year-round filming, create stable jobs, and ensure productions can base themselves here long-term.”

Without a studio, many productions still bring their cast and crews from elsewhere—good for hotels, but limiting for local job growth.

Cross-Regional Collaboration, Not Competition

When asked about competition from other regions—including the Okanagan and U.S. states—Hadwin stressed collaboration.

“Productions don’t care about imaginary boundaries,” she said. “We work with our neighbors, not against them. If anything, the Okanagan is like a sibling—friendly rivalry, but we all want success for BC.”

She also noted the recent closure of the Columbia Shuswap film office, explaining that the Okanagan Film Commission has now absorbed those responsibilities.

American Market Remains Stable

Responding to questions about potential impacts of U.S. tariff changes under President Trump, Hadwin noted there has been no change so far. “No announcements, no details, no impact at this point,” she confirmed.

Direct Benefits Already Seen from Familiarization Tours

Earlier this year, the Film Commission hosted familiarization tours for location and production managers. The results were immediate: bookings at local resorts and direct use of showcased film locations.

A Growing Reputation

Hadwin also highlighted that the region has been named one of the Top Places to Live and Work as a Filmmaker by MovieMaker Magazine for three consecutive years—an achievement she called “a big deal for a small but mighty team.” Kamloops came in at number 10 on the 2025 list.

Board members concluded the presentation with unanimous praise. “What an improvement since you came on as Commissioner. You’ve made the film office a true revenue generator for the whole region.”