P.E.I. Fails to Lure Netflix Series Amid Uncertainty
· design
Province Risks Losing Huge Netflix Series Filming in P.E.I., Opposition Says
The recent announcement that a Netflix series adaptation of Canadian author Carley Fortune’s novel, This Summer Will Be Different, will be filmed in part on Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) has highlighted the need for provinces like P.E.I. to invest in themselves as viable destinations for high-end productions.
At stake is not just the fate of one project but the broader question of whether P.E.I. is prepared to support initiatives that can bring significant economic benefits, estimated by local production company Club Red Productions to be between $20 million and $30 million per season. Liberal MLA Hal Perry has accused the Progressive Conservative government of creating uncertainty on this project, a concern echoed by many who believe the province needs to be more proactive in supporting productions like This Summer Will Be Different.
The lack of clear and consistent support for the film industry in P.E.I. is a long-standing issue that reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the value that productions can bring to a province. While some may see government support as bureaucratic red tape, it’s essential to recognize that productions like this are not just economic engines but also cultural ambassadors. They showcase the unique character and beauty of P.E.I. to a global audience, generating interest in tourism and providing opportunities for local actors, technicians, and artisans.
The fact that Club Red Productions is already scouting locations and promoting the island suggests there’s genuine interest in bringing this production – and its associated economic benefits – to fruition. However, neighboring provinces like Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador would likely jump at the opportunity to host a high-profile production like This Summer Will Be Different, highlighting the need for P.E.I. to differentiate itself.
Governments have a critical role to play in supporting initiatives like the Film Production Fund, which provides financial incentives for productions to film on location. However, they also need to demonstrate a clear understanding of the industry’s needs and priorities. In this context, Premier Rob Lantz’s response to MLA Perry’s question – that his staff are arranging a meeting with production representatives – feels inadequate given that pre-production is already underway.
The stakes are high, not just because of the economic benefits but also because of the potential long-term consequences of losing a production like This Summer Will Be Different. As MLA Perry noted, “Projects like this have a potential to generate enormous tourist interest for P.E.I., but only if the series actually films here on Prince Edward Island as planned.” The question now is whether the government will seize this opportunity or let it slip through its fingers.
Reader Views
- TDTheo D. · type designer
The real concern here is not just about luring a Netflix series to P.E.I., but whether the province has a sustainable plan in place to support ongoing productions and talent development. While government support is crucial, we also need to consider the long-term implications of hosting these projects. What happens when the cameras roll out, and the crew leaves? Will the infrastructure and resources invested remain intact for future shoots? It's high time P.E.I. develops a comprehensive strategy that addresses the full lifecycle of film production, not just the initial attraction.
- NFNoa F. · graphic designer
The elephant in the room is that Prince Edward Island's film industry infrastructure is woefully underdeveloped. While government support for productions like _This Summer Will Be Different_ is crucial, it's equally essential to ensure that the province has a robust network of post-production facilities and specialized services to cater to large-scale productions. Without this foundation, even the most generous incentives will fall flat. The fact that Club Red Productions is already scouting locations suggests they're prepared to mitigate these risks, but what about when the cameras stop rolling?
- TSThe Studio Desk · editorial
It's time for P.E.I. to stop playing catch-up and invest in its own film infrastructure. The fact that production companies are already scouting locations elsewhere is a clear indication of what's at stake here: a lost opportunity for economic growth and cultural promotion. But let's not get bogged down in partisan politics – the real issue is the lack of clear policy guidelines for attracting high-end productions to the island. Until we establish a more robust framework, we'll continue to watch as talent and investment pass us by.