Brokeback Mountain to shine at Oscars

Alberta film crews building mountains of acclaim

January 31, 2006, Edmonton... The made-in-Alberta film, Brokeback Mountain has earned eight Academy Award nominations, more than any other film this year. The Oscars, and the other awards heaped on made-in-Alberta films this year, are expected to launch Alberta’ s film industry into a new realm.

“Brokeback Mountain bears the reflection of the nearly 600 Albertans who worked on this film,” says Economic Development Minister Clint Dunford. “The Alberta Film Commission markets Alberta for its scenic locations, and well-skilled film craftsmen and crew. I commend Alberta’s film industry on their dedication and for the quality of work they have provided over the years.”

Dan Chugg from the Alberta Film Commission is banking on the publicity. “We have sent out more locations packages this year than ever before. There is no doubt that the Oscar publicity generates business for the province. When (Clint Eastwood’s) Unforgiven was nominated for nine Oscars in 1993, Alberta reaped the benefits in tourism and in new shoots.”

Hank Williams First Nation, which was shot in Peace River, and feature film Six Figures, filmed in the Calgary area, also earned Genie award nominations.

The Alberta Film Commission (reporting to Alberta Economic Development) markets Alberta as a filming location, assists filmmakers with location information and scouting, and operates as a liaison with facilities, services, businesses and government.

For information on Alberta’s film industry visit: www.albertafilm.ca

Editor’s Note: Brokeback Mountain has won 63 awards so far, and is nominated for another 24 that have not yet been awarded.

Contact Information

Dan Chugg

Alberta Film Commissioner

Government of Alberta

Contact via E-mail