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Here are just a few of the exciting movies and television series that have been filmed in Vaughan over the past few years.
We’ve all heard the expression “Hollywood North”, but have you ever heard the expression “Hollywood Vaughan!” That’s right, the glitz and glamour of show business has come to town, transforming Vaughan into a Lights! Camera! Action! destination in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). From futuristic and funny to utopian and dystopian, Vaughan has a wealth of stunning locations that have been transformed on film. Here are just a few of the exciting movies and television series that have been filmed in Vaughan over the past few years. See how many buildings and landmarks you recognize!
Vaughan City Hall
The stunning architecture and futuristic interior design of Vaughan City Hall was a perfect backdrop for both The Handmaid’s Tale and Star Trek: Discovery.
The futuristic vibe of the City’s Council Chamber set the tone for imagining the United Federation of Planets presidential office and a tribunal in a series episode.
Star Trek: Discovery at Vaughan City Hall – photos produced by Vaughan International Film Festival for ‘Vaughan On Screen’ campaign.
The Handmaid’s Tale found a perfect home in Vaughan City Hall for exterior and interior scenes set within its dystopian world. Based on Canadian Author Margaret Atwood’s classic novel, this Emmy and Golden Globe -winning series is popular all over the world and Vaughan has played a part in that success.
The Handmaid's Tale at Vaughan City Hall – photos produced by Vaughan International Film Festival for ‘Vaughan On Screen’ campaign.
Salty Dawg Saloon
Located near Major Mackenzie Drive and Highway 27, the unique vintage Salty Dawg Saloon is a destination for good food, drinks and live music. Fun fact: it was once the destination of choice for Chris Farley and David Spade in the comedy movie, Tommy Boy. Renamed in true Hollywood style as the “Cluck Bucket,” the famous scene involves Chris Farley tormenting a surly waitress until she cooks him some chicken wings.
Kleinburg Film Studios
Kleinburg Film Studios was constructed in 1959 as one of Canada’s first purpose-built studios. Situated in the artistic hub of Kleinburg, it’s the only studio in Canada that is surrounded by greenery, horse paddocks, barns, field lots, wood lots and the Humber River Valley. These facilities and the surrounding locations provide an incredibly unique working environment. With two sound stages and all the supporting infrastructure Hollywood needs, it’s no wonder shows such as Titans, American Gods, and The Boys, as well as the Nicole Kidman film, To Die For, have filmed here.
The Doctor’s House and Islington Avenue
When famed horror maestro George Romero (Night of the Living Dead) needed a location to film his post-apocalyptic zombie horror sequel, Land of the Dead, he chose Vaughan and The Doctor’s House. This venue dates back to 1867, the year of confederation, and today is known as a destination place for weddings, corporate events and great meals. But during production of this snarling zombie flick, the only meal to be found at The Doctor’s House was “Brains!” The film also shot its famous opening scenes on Islington Avenue, disguised as a zombie wasteland.
Land of the Dead at The Doctor’s House – photos produced by Vaughan International Film Festival for ‘Vaughan On Screen’ campaign
…and a few more!
Here are some other filming locations to try and spot in Vaughan! The Monte Carlo Inn is known for affordable luxury and great value. It was also featured in the Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara comedy series, Schitt’s Creek.
Almost every student in Southern Ontario had a school trip to Black Creek Pioneer Village when they were young, and so did Billy Madison, in Adam Sandler’s comedy of the same name.
Billy Madison at Black Creek Pioneer Village – photos produced by Vaughan International Film Festival for ‘Vaughan On Screen’ campaign.
The grounds of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection were used for various scenes for Kiefer Sutherland’s political thriller TV series, Designated Survivor, including the exterior, the front gallery, the Founder’s Lounge and the CABIN restaurant.
And when movies and TV shows need a roller coaster scene, Canada’s Wonderland is the location of choice. The TV series, The Dead Zone, shot some action-packed scenes in the park.
The Dead Zone at Canada’s Wonderland – photos produced by Vaughan International Film Festival for ‘Vaughan On Screen’ campaign.
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