The upcoming summer will mark the commencement of the largest television production ever set to take place in Prince Edward Island. This initiative is made possible through a $5 million investment from the province, in the form of a rebate, to adapt Canadian author Carley Fortune’s acclaimed romance novel, “This Summer Will Be Different,” into a 10-episode series that will be shot in both P.E.I. and Toronto.
During the recent announcement in Victoria, Robin Neinstein, the director of production management for Netflix Canada, emphasized the significance of filming on the Island, stating that P.E.I. is not merely a backdrop in the book but a vibrant character in itself. Neinstein expressed the excitement of filming in this unique location, highlighting the irreplaceable essence of the island.
The production will involve hiring 75 individuals for various roles such as production assistants, painters, and caterers. Rob Riselli, the executive director of Film P.E.I., mentioned that this production will serve as a platform to showcase the beauty of the Island and potentially attract more projects in the future, ultimately benefiting the local economy.
Premier Rob Lantz lauded the announcement as a significant development for Prince Edward Island’s arts and culture sector, emphasizing the economic opportunities and the chance to exhibit the Island’s charm to a global audience. The involvement of key figures like Robin Neinstein, Premier Rob Lantz, and Minister Jenn Redmond reflects the collaborative effort to elevate the province’s presence in the film industry.
Minister Jenn Redmond described the filming of “This Summer Will Be Different” in P.E.I. as an investment in the province’s arts and culture industry, positioning P.E.I. on a broader international platform. The partnership with Netflix was praised as a pivotal moment for the province’s film industry growth.
The government’s commitment to the project was reaffirmed by Premier Lantz, dismissing any uncertainties raised by the Opposition and expressing anticipation for the production to progress smoothly. The venture is anticipated to have a positive impact on P.E.I.’s exposure through the popular streaming platform, although the release date for the series remains undisclosed.