Alberta has opened its first rural film office and a website to go along with it.

Officials say the film industry is thriving in communities throughout Mountain View County, and the newly formed Mountain View Regional Film Office (MVRFO) is said to be making great strides in its endeavor to attract projects and business to the region—inviting film makers to make it reel big…in Mountain View. The MVRFO is described as a partnership between Mountain View County, the Town of Sundre, and the Town of Didsbury and, together, they have launched a comprehensive website to help connect the international film industry with local communities and service providers.

Mountain View County Reeve, Angela Aalbers, said she is excited about the possibilities.

“Mountain View County is pleased to unveil the development of a filming asset website, in conjunction with our partners at the Town of Didsbury and Town of Sundre,” said Aalbers. “It is our belief that through this ongoing partnership and future collaborative endeavors, our regional presence to the film industry will be heightened, allowing individuals from around the world to enjoy the same beautiful landscapes, sites, and locations that our residents get to experience on a daily basis.”

Officials note, the MVRFO website is dedicated to showcasing the region for its views and setting, and for its abundance of talent. Olds College, SAIT and Red Deer Polytechnic all offer film, video, and sound production as well as other relevant technical programs. These programs aim to develop qualified personnel sought after by the film industry, making the region even more desirable as it offers not only the perfect location, but talented crews and services as well.

Sundre Mayor, Richard Warnock, says he agrees that the creation of the film office and the newly launched website will be of great benefit to the region.

“With supportive staff and scenery that is second to none, there is no easier place to film in rural Alberta than the Mountain View Region,” he commented. “The launch of the new Mountain View Regional Film Office highlights the creative solutions that can be accomplished through regional collaboration. As the first regional film office of its kind in rural Alberta, the MVRFO is expected to help put the partner communities on the map to the screen industry. By highlighting all the region has to offer, and continuing to work with their partners, the Town of Sundre says it looks forward to supporting the growing film and TV industry, and the media technology sector that supports it.”

The MVRFO website includes a directory of local resources ranging from available accommodation and retail businesses to trades, services, set design and sound technicians. Officials say local businesses can easily add their information to the list and become part of the one-stop-shop the website provides for the industry.

Didsbury Mayor, Rhonda Hunter, says she looks forward to welcoming more film crews to town.

“Didsbury’s timeless look and small-town feel have already captured the attention of many in the industry, and, since being “discovered” for the beauty our town offers, the welcoming atmosphere we are so proud of, and our commitment to work with and grow opportunities for the Creative Industries, we are extremely proud to have already hosted the casts and crews of many popular movies and series,” she noted. “Together with the Town of Sundre and Mountain View County, we continue to open doors to promote and showcase all we have in attracting and accommodating the unique requirements of filming that each new venture brings.”