Almost every conversation in the region seems to include, “Have you seen George yet?”
The reference is to super star George Clooney and his starring role in Tomorrowland, which is being filmed partially in Enderby, Grindrod and Armstrong.
Obviously there is interest in Clooney, and co-star Hugh Laurie too, because while movies have been shot here before, there has been nothing to this magnitude.
“It’s the biggest thing I have ever seen,” said Jon Summerland, Okanagan film commissioner, of the Walt Disney Pictures’ movie, which has a budget of about $250 million.
And the economic ramifications could be significant as there is a crew of about 300 people. They are staying in hotels, eating at restaurants, buying supplies and visiting our shops. It’s also hoped Disney’s confidence in the region will lead other Hollywood productions to pack their bags for the Okanagan Valley.
It’s important to note that landing the Disney project didn’t happen overnight and it’s a result of hard work from Summerland and the Okanagan Film Commission, including chairperson John Trainor of Armstrong.
Let’s relish in the exposure our region is currently garnering and prospective benefits that could ensue.
And if you do happen to see George Clooney, give him a big smile and show him the hospitality the North Okanagan-Shuswap is known for.
