A Vancouver-based film and television producer is looking to make Chatham-Kent the next destination for the film industry.
Garrett VanDusen, who was born and raised in Chatham, has been presented with the opportunity to take his skills in film production and put them to work in Chatham-Kent.
"There's been a change of pace out here in Vancouver," he said. "It has become congested, rates are too high, and we need to find new locations."
With film production being brand new to the area, southwestern Ontario has a look and feel for the perfect backdrop, according to VanDusen.
"I've been presented with a slate of about six to eight movies," he said. "We make the movies, which are then sold and distributed to networks like Hallmark and Lifetime."
The types of movies will range from thrillers to romantic comedies, but Vandusen needs help from the community before production can start.
He is looking to showcase local homes and businesses in the community.
"I'm reaching out to the community to get more people involved and see if they would be willing to put their homes and businesses up," said VanDusen.
The network is looking for Victorian, Modern, or farmhouses as well as lofts and open-space apartments.
VanDusen said the network is also looking for coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants, and shops.
"I want to be able to introduce this industry to the region," said VanDusen. "The landscape of southwestern Ontario is perfect."
Interested residents can learn more about showcasing their home or business by contacting VanDusen by emailing him at stayintouchglobal@gmail.com.