Tourism Mission has produced a short film, marketing the city as a friendly location for movie makers.
The project got its start through the Mission Movie Moment campaign, which shot an array of locations around town. The goal eventually broadened, leading to the creation of the film to “dazzle” film producers and “create a buzz around the tourist sites and businesses.”
Local talent was recruited for the production, adding a comedian, actor, scriptwriter Cliff Prang, actress Marika Siewert, and production company Hadron Films to the team. The project was funded through Destination BC.
“We wanted a piece that would allow us to showcase many settings, but not in the typical tourism marketing style,” said Clare Seeley, manager of Tourism Mission. “Thanks to Cliff for his visionary storytelling, and the hard work of Hadron Films, we captured ten locations.”
The five-minute short creates a comedic Hallmark-esque storyline, with one “adventure buff” and one “tender-hearted” character as they travel around town to various locations, all while being stalked by a scary bear.
The Powerhouse at Stave Falls, the Clarke Theatre, Mission Raceway Park, the Best Western Mission City Plus, Downtown Mission, and Rocko’s Diner were all highlighted as potential shooting locations.
The Mission Movie Moment project has created an itinerary for future filmmakers, and participating businesses have a sticker in their windows.
“Look out (for the sticker) the next time you are in the Downtown or at an attraction.”
Bear plushies have also been created by Tourism Mission, available for purchase at the Visitor Centre.