Laura Leppard, Film Cowichan Coordinator
COWICHAN VALLEY – Set amidst Vancouver Island’s awe-inspiring landscapes and steeped in a rich cultural tapestry, the Cowichan region is evolving into a captivating destination for local and global filmmakers. Film Cowichan, an initiative of Economic Development Cowichan (EDC), is at the forefront of this transformation, fostering an environment where cinematic creativity thrives alongside economic development.
We sat down with Laura Leppard, Film Cowichan Coordinator, to learn more about Film Cowichan and how it plays into the region’s economic future. Laura’s insights offer a compelling narrative of how the Cowichan region is carving its place in the global film landscape and bridging its artistic and economic potential.
As Film Coordinator, Laura’s role is part curator, part diplomat, and entirely indispensable to an industry where the bottom line meets breathtaking backdrops. Her journey began in real estate, where her work scouting unique properties gave her an intimate understanding of the region’s potential as a cinematic canvas. “We have everything—rolling hills, historic architecture, untouched beaches—often locations that directors can’t believe haven’t been overused on screen,” she shared during our recent conversation.
Film Cowichan’s mission is to position the region as a premiere filming location while maximizing the economic benefits for local communities. Laura’s work includes promoting regional film locations, preparing online location packages, assisting with scouting and permitting, liaising with municipalities and business organizations and supporting local film initiatives. Recent productions like Sonic the Hedgehog (2020), Resident Alien (2021), and Hallmark’s Holidazed (2024) have not only showcased Cowichan’s picturesque landscapes but have also brought significant economic returns to the region. For example, Resident Alien spent over $700,000 on just a few days of filming. “The ripple effects are immense,” Leppard noted. “From local catering to security services, even small productions can uplift the community economically.”
The region’s natural charm, coupled with Film Cowichan’s streamlined support for productions, has made the region an indispensable part of BC’s cinematic landscape. Situated strategically between the Island’s two major film commissions—the Vancouver Island North Film Commission in Campbell River and the South Island Film Commission in Victoria—Cowichan benefits from a unique geographic advantage. The commissions act as essential resources for productions, offering location scouting, logistical guidance, and industry connections. Laura’s role involves collaborating closely with both commissions. Her efforts help integrate the Cowichan region into the broader provincial ecosystem while maintaining its distinct identity.
While Film Cowichan doesn’t directly connect filmmakers to tax incentives, it plays an instrumental role in showcasing the region’s unmatched offerings. British Columbia’s enhanced tax credits, such as the Film Incentive BC (FIBC) and Production Services Tax Credit (PSTC), make the province a competitive choice for filmmakers. Laura’s work ensures that productions recognize the region’s potential to deliver both creative inspiration and cost-effective solutions. By emphasizing the region’s infrastructure and strategic location, Film Cowichan positions itself as a crucial ally for productions seeking a seamless experience.
Indigenous films are also forging new ways forward in the Cowichan region. Documentaries like The Cowichan Sweater: Our Knitted Legacy (2023), created by Mary Galloway and Tiffany Jospeh, and Tzouhalem (2021), produced by Harold C. Joe and Leslie Bland of Orca Cove Media, highlight the deep connections between land, culture, and film. Other educational films such as Penelakut: Returning to the Healing Circle (2021) are shedding light about communities healing from the trauma of residential schools. These projects not only celebrate the rich history and perspectives of the region but also demonstrate the power of Indigenous voices in shaping authentic and compelling narratives.
The success of the film industry in the Cowichan region is deeply tied to community involvement. Residents can reach out to Laura to help showcase their own homes and properties to help strengthen the area’s film-friendly reputation and increase Cowichan’s likelihood of attracting future productions. Leppard emphasizes, “Even the smallest productions bring economic and cultural opportunities to our region, creating jobs and fostering connections.” By embracing the film industry and reaching out directly to Laura, residents can help strengthen the region’s reputation as a film-friendly destination, ensuring that the benefits of this growing sector are felt across the community.
Looking ahead, in line with EDC strategic priorities, Film Cowichan seeks to promote the development of post-production facilities that can create opportunities for local talent to thrive within the industry. “The [Cowichan] Valley’s untapped potential in post-production could position it as a hub for both film and tech innovation,” Leppard suggests.
The Cowichan region is not merely a setting; it’s a story waiting to be shared. Beyond the data, Leppard’s work is deeply personal. “Film has this magic of not only telling stories but connecting people to place,” she reflected. Whether dealing with film executives or advising residents on how their property could be the next blockbuster backdrop, Laura embodies the economic and artistic alchemy needed to make the Cowichan region a marquee name in BC filmmaking. By nurturing a self-sustaining ecosystem, Film Cowichan, under the leadership of Laura, aims to anchor the region’s status as a leading player in provincial and global film industries.
Source: ecdevcowichan.com
