Canada is called Hollywood North for a reason. Some of the year’s best shows are filmed right in our back yard. Toronto can transform from a medieval town into a sci-fi wasteland in the blink of an eye. Here are five of our favourites.
5. Suits (USA/BRAVO): New York lawyer, Harvey Specter, thinks he’s hired the perfect associate. The catch? His new protégée never went to Havard. In fact, he never finished college at all! Oh, and breakout dramedy, Suits, is actually filmed in Toronto instead of the Big Apple (much to the chagrin of its lead actor). It’s not unusual for Toronto to sub in for other major cities. Last month you could see New York Style subway entrances up and down Adelaide and causing quite a stir.
USA
4. Defiance (SYFY): Season two of Defiance has just hit the small screen. This dystopian Sci-fi epic throws humans and aliens into a world where only the strong survive. The show also has a corresponding MMORPG in case you wanted to delve deeper into the story. Yes, Votans, Irathient, and humans must find a way to coexist in this strange new world…and they usually can, because most of the extras took the TTC to get to work.
SYFY
3. Reign (CW): CW’s Reign tells a fictionalized account of the life of Mary, Queen of Scots. With its breathtaking scenery, epic castles, and historical feel, it’s easy to forget that Reign is filmed in the good ol’ GTA. Through the magic of television, the sets and soundstages of Toronto can be turned into 16th century France. Parks in Pickering and Burlington mimic the tourney fields of the King’s games. Even Anne of Green Gables herself makes an appearance. Megan Follows stars as Catherine de’ Medici.
CW
2. Hannibal (NBC): NBC’s prequel to Thomas Harris’ Red Dragon may be set in Minnesota and Virginia, but these theatrical serial killers have actually been prowling the streets of Toronto. Don’t be surprised if you run into Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen) near his office near Roy Thompson Hall, or are surrounded by FBI at one of many U of T shooting locations. Rumour has it that the production will be taking a short trip to Europe for season three, but we’re certain they’ll be back.
NBC
1. Orphan Black (SPACE): Orphan Black has taken the world by storm. This clone saga drama is like no other. Lead actress, Tatiana Maslany, not only plays Sarah (a con artist who’s seeking custody of her daughter) but an ever-expanding world of clones. Each new clone is distinct, interesting and believable and displays Maslany’s uncanny ability to embody a character. Its successful sophomore season has kept fans on their toes and critics buzzing. Unlike the rest of this list, Orphan Black proudly displays its Canadian roots. You’ll recognize Ontario license plates, driver’s licenses, and Pearson Airport if you look closely. The first episode even opens on the platforms of Union Station. Who needs LA? We have the best right here.
But if you are going to LA, you can count on Ascend In Motion for your LAX Pickup.
SPACE
Which of your favourite shows have been filmed in and around the city?
