Vancouver, aka “Hollywood North,” has long been a go-to destination for filmmakers. Why wouldn’t it be? We’ve got jaw-dropping landscapes, a highly skilled workforce, and tax incentives that make accountants downright giddy. But let’s be real: while Vancouver’s film and TV industry still shines in the headlines, behind the scenes, it’s a bit like a movie set after a big stunt—things are looking a little messy.
A Unique Perspective on the Industry
I didn’t always live in this world of production schedules, call sheets, and crafty tables. In 2019, I transitioned from theatre management to film and TV, just in time to witness some pretty epic plot twists. I’ve worked in the Vancouver and Vancouver Island job markets, in roles ranging from indie passion projects to big-budget productions, with mentors from both mainstream and indie circles. Translation? I’ve seen it all: the good, the bad, and the “Wait, is this really how we’re doing things now?”
This mix of experiences gives me a perspective that’s part insider knowledge, part audience commentary. What’s clear to me is this: the industry is caught in a tug-of-war between how things used to work, how they’re working now (or not), and a future that feels as uncertain as an improv night.
- The Workload vs. Workforce Disparity
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: there’s not enough work to go around. While productions have picked up since the pandemic and strikes, the workload hasn’t bounced back to match the size or talent of Vancouver’s workforce.
- Fewer Productions, More Worry: After years of endless content creation for every streaming platform imaginable, the bubble has burst. Studios are tightening budgets and greenlighting fewer projects.
- Underemployed Talent: Vancouver’s workforce is full of seasoned pros who are now twiddling their thumbs—or worse, considering other careers.
Imagine having a culinary team of incredible chefs standing by and not enough orders coming in to keep the kitchen running. That’s where we’re at.
- The Exodus of Experienced Crew
A lot of skilled workers have decided they’ve had enough of this unpredictable gig life. And who can blame them?
- Burnout is Real: Long hours and unpredictable schedules are great for plot twists, but not for mental health.
- Goodbye, Mentors: The departure of seasoned crew means new talent isn’t getting the training they need. It’s like being handed a fancy camera with no manual.
- Financial Instability: Vancouver’s cost of living is the cinematic villain no one asked for, forcing many to pack up and leave the industry—or the city—entirely.
- The Struggles of Freelance Life
For those of us sticking it out, the freelance lifestyle has gone from thrilling to nerve-wracking.
- Mind the Gaps: Productions are fewer and farther between, leaving even experienced crew with longer gaps between jobs and taking positions well below their skill and experience level, just to be working!
- Living on the Edge: Forget about stable benefits or retirement plans—those are a pipe dream for most freelancers. Even if they are union members, without sufficient work hours they are ineligible for the benefit plan.
- Rent vs. Passion: Vancouver’s sky-high housing costs make chasing your dreams feel like a luxury only Bruce Wayne could afford.
- The Impact of AI and Virtual Production
Now let’s talk tech—AI and virtual production. They’re like the flashy new characters everyone’s talking about, but their arrival is shaking up the cast dynamics.
- AI Takes the Spotlight: AI is automating everything from scriptwriting to visual effects cleanup. Sure, it’s efficient, but it’s also cutting out roles that used to be entry points for people breaking into the industry.
- Virtual Production Shrinks the Stage: Technologies like LED walls mean fewer on-location shoots—a big selling point for Vancouver. And while the tech-savvy among us are thriving, traditional crew roles like set construction and location management are taking a hit.
- The Training Cliff: The industry needs to help people transition into these tech-heavy roles, but let’s face it, the training hasn’t caught up with the tech.
- The Path Forward
What’s the solution? It’s going to take some rewrites, reshoots, and maybe a little behind-the-scenes magic:
- Upskill or Bust: The industry needs to invest in accessible training programs for emerging tech like AI and virtual production.
- Treat Workers Like Stars: Fair labor practices aren’t just nice; they’re necessary to keep people in the game.
- Support Homegrown Content: More Canadian productions could mean more consistent work for Vancouver crews.
- Government and Industry Teamwork: Tax incentives and funding need to do more than lure productions here—they should help build sustainable careers for locals.
Vancouver’s film and TV industry is in the middle of its own dramatic arc, facing challenges that require more than a quick rewrite. Having witnessed these shifts from multiple perspectives, I know the talent and creativity here can rise to the occasion—but only if we prioritize people over profit, training over trends, and community over competition. The credits aren’t rolling yet, but the next act will be crucial.
Call to Action: Let’s Talk About It
Here’s where you come in: share this post with your colleagues, peers, and industry friends. Let’s get the conversation going about how we can adapt and thrive in this evolving landscape. What solutions do you see for Vancouver’s film and TV industry? Leave a comment, start a discussion, and let’s figure this out together.
