Calgary’s distinctive skyline and the annual Stampede festival have been prominently featured in various films over the years. Blockbusters like “Brokeback Mountain” and “Interstellar” are often associated with Alberta, showcasing its wilderness and prairie landscapes. However, defining what makes a movie a “Calgary” film is a question film critic Christopher Redmond has been exploring through his Substack, Bon Shot Bad Shot.
Redmond recently delved into Calgary’s movie history and highlighted some of the most iconic films set in the city. He noted that while many productions claim to be shot in Calgary, they often film in nearby areas like Banff or Canmore. Setting his boundaries slightly wider than the Ring Road, Redmond compiled a list of the top ‘Calgary’ flicks.
One of the earliest Canadian feature films, “Back to God’s Country” from 1919, was partially shot in Calgary but predominantly near Lesser Slave Lake. The film’s success was attributed to producer Ernest Shipman, who raised funds by showcasing a scandalous nude scene featuring his wife, Nell Shipman.
“The Calgary Stampede” in 1925, starring Hoot Gibson, was filmed on location at the actual Stampede grounds. While most silent-era films were shot outside the city, “Prime Cut” in 1972 featured scenes in Calgary, even though it was set in Kansas City. Similarly, “Days of Heaven” in 1978 captured the beauty of southern Alberta and ended at Calgary’s Heritage Park.
The beloved 1993 film “Cool Runnings” was shot in various Calgary locations, including WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park and the Calgary International Airport. This movie, inspired by the Jamaican bobsleigh team’s debut at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, embodies a quintessential “Calgary” tale.
Despite “Brokeback Mountain” taking the top spot for films shot in Calgary, Redmond highlighted the lesser-known action thriller “Exit Wounds” from 2001. Featuring intense action sequences on the Centre Street Bridge, the film showcases the city’s iconic landmarks in a memorable way.