The Reality Behind TV Shows Filmed in Canada: Debunking Popular Myths

The misconception that most popular TV shows are filmed in Canada instead of the USA persists in many circles. While it's true that a significant number of TV shows are indeed filmed in Canada, the truth is far more complex.

Why Canada for TV Shows?

A key factor driving the trend of TV shows being filmed in Canada is cost efficiency. Additionally, various levels of government in Canada offer significant tax advantages. This results in a financial burden on Canadian taxpayers, yet the rationale for these investments seems to revolve around supporting a talent development fund.

The Role of Tax Treatments

Certainly, tax incentives in Canada are matched by similar incentives in other countries such as Australia and New Zealand. These financial incentives ensure that even when these shows air in the United States, they contribute to the economies of the countries they were filmed in, thereby enriching both artists and national governments. The song royalties that often feature in these TV shows are a prime example of this dynamic.

For instance, if you happen to watch a show and notice a song that feels out of place or unfamiliar, the chances are high that a significant portion of the royalties from such songs ultimately benefit the Canadian government and its developmental funds. This phenomenon is not unique to Canada but extends to the realms of Australian and New Zealand shows airing in the United States.

The Case for Shooting in the USA

It's important to note that not all highly-rated, popular TV series are filmed in Canada. Again, most of the heavy hitters in the industry, especially those dating back to the last 70 years, have been produced in the USA. The allure of cheaper production costs makes Canada an attractive destination. However, the allure extends beyond cost alone.

The Production Hub of Vancouver

Vancouver, in particular, has become a major hub for TV production. This is largely due to its proximity to Hollywood and relatively lower production costs compared to the USA. However, the production and quality can sometimes suffer, leading to a distinctive "wooden home video" feel. This is evident in many shows shot in Canada, which often lack the polish and refinement seen in USA-produced counterparts.

Notable examples include shows like Battlestar Galactica and upcoming Syfy reboots, which are primarily produced in Canada. Despite the aesthetic differences, Vancouver remains a significant destination for production, driven by the tax savings and willingness of local producers to bend to the needs of the production companies.

Tax Incentives and Negotiation Differences

A recent development in the TV industry is the provision of favorable tax treatments in certain US states, most notably Georgia. This has created a situation where production companies may find it more beneficial to film in the USA rather than Canada, even if production costs are slightly higher.

For instance, in Canada, there is a disparity in wage scales. A key grip in California starts at $30/hour, while their Canadian counterpart earns the same amount in Canadian dollars, a substantial difference. This financial benefit, combined with the negotiation leverage that production companies have with local businesses, influences where productions are filmed.

A case in point is the reboot of Lost in Space. When Syfy wanted to reboot this series, they dealt with a situation where the production company in California stood firm, potentially rendering the negotiations fruitless. In Canada, however, the production companies are more willing to accommodate the needs and demands of production companies, ensuring a smoother and more adaptable production environment.

Conclusion

While Canada plays a significant role in the production of TV shows, it is not the only or even the primary production hub. The decision to film in Canada versus the USA depends on a multitude of factors, including production costs, tax treatments, and the negotiation environment.

Understanding these complexities and the factors influencing the choice of filming location can provide an insightful perspective on the film industry today.