News

$2.5 Million to Strengthen the Local Film and Television Industry

Funding provided through the NOHFC

NORTH BAY – Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing announced that the Ontario government is welcoming over $15 million in investments to support the operation of four film and television projects filmed in and around North Bay, and one studio improvement project. In addition, the province is investing $2.5 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to propel the local film and television industry forward while strengthening the local economy.

“Today’s $2.5 million investment through the NOHFC will increase the industry’s jobs and investments in Northern Ontario, including right here in Nipissing,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “The Ontario government will continue to elevate this region’s world-class film and television industry, drive the local economy, and attract projects.”

Local film and television projects receiving NOHFC funding include:

• $800,000 for Blood Lines Films Inc to produce the film Blood Lines, shot in and around North Bay, a feature film that follows the story of a woman who is both a reporter and grocery store clerk whose world comes crashing down with the homecoming of her estranged mother and the appearance of a mysterious woman in both their lives
• $500,000 for Distinct Features Inc to produce the film Driven, shot in and around North Bay, about a young lawyer is trapped in a high-tech car on an isolated northern highway by a malevolent force
• $500,000 for Embers Film Inc to produce the film The Embers and the Starts, shot in and around North Bay, a feature film that follows the story of an astrophysicist stationed in the north of Canada who discovers that there are two non-human powers positioned to take control of earth and its inhabitants
• $500,000 for HP Productions Inc to produce the film Operation Mistletoe, filmed in and around North Bay, about an expert decorator and her former high school crush, who returns to sell a house that her best friend hires her to decorate
• $200,000 for Mukwa Studios to improve its studio space with a new rigging grid to support lights, backdrops and safety harnesses

“Distinct Features’ production of the movie “Driven” will be one of the most Northern productions ever shot, with 95% of the cast and crew coming from the North and more specifically North Bay. The ongoing support of Distinct Features from the NOHFC has helped us develop a world-class production and acting community.” – Derek Diorio, President of Distinct Features, Producer of Driven.

“The Embers and The Stars was made possible with the participation of the NOHFC. We were able to shoot in the summer of 2024 and bring top-tier cast up to the north to work alongside all of the talent that Northern Ontario has to offer. We are grateful for the NOHFC’s ongoing support and hope to bring many more exciting projects in the future.” – Maddy Falle, Producer, The Embers and The Stars.

“The unwavering support from the NOHFC and Minister Fedeli has been absolutely essential to the success of our film. Their funding not only enables us to bring our creative vision to life but also supports the local economy, talent, and communities that make this region such an inspiring place to create. NOHFC’s commitment to fostering growth in the film industry truly makes them an invaluable partner for our industry.” – David Anselmo, President of Production, Hideaway Pictures, Producer of Operation Mistletoe.

Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $147 million in 865 projects in the Nipissing area, leveraging more than $637 million in investment and creating or sustaining 1,531 jobs.

Quick Facts

• The Ontario government’s improved NOHFC programming supports more projects in rural northern communities and makes it easier for more people and businesses to apply. The programming targets existing and emerging markets, provides more work opportunities for Indigenous people and addresses the skilled labour shortage in the North.
• The NOHFC’s Cultural Supports Program showcases Northern Ontario culture, geography and talent through event partnerships and support for the production of films and TV series.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres are available to support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and assist in accessing government funding programs.