WHY THIS FILM EXISTS

Alberta Has Been a Film Destination for Decades!

But the stories behind it are vanishing.

From early television and independent productions to major Hollywood films, Alberta has quietly played a pivotal role in Canada’s film and television history. Crews, performers, locations, and innovators helped build an industry — often without recognition.

Reel Alberta is a documentary journey to preserve those stories, told by the people who lived them.

Before they’re lost.

WHAT REEL ALBERTA IS

What This Documentary Explores

  • 🎥 The rise of Alberta as a film-friendly province

  • 🎬 Behind-the-scenes stories from filmmakers, crew, and creatives

  • 🏔️ Iconic locations that brought global productions north

  • 🧠 How Alberta’s film culture shaped careers and communities

This is not just a history lesson — it’s a living archive of Alberta’s creative legacy.

WHY NOW (THIS IS CRITICAL)

Why This Story Can’t Wait

Many of the pioneers who helped build Alberta’s film industry are aging. Their experiences—the challenges, the breakthroughs, the unrecorded moments—exist only in memory.

Once those voices are gone, the stories go with them.

Reel Alberta exists to capture them while we still can.

ABOUT THE FILMMAKER

Who’s Behind the Camera

I’m Richard Cleveland — a lifelong storyteller with decades of experience in entertainment, broadcasting, and production across Canada.

This project is deeply personal. I’ve lived inside this industry, worked alongside its creatives, and seen firsthand how much of its history remains undocumented.

Reel Alberta is my way of giving something back — and making sure this chapter of Alberta’s cultural story is finally told.

Learn more

The Journey Has Already Begun

🎙️ Interviews already underway

  • 📍 Filming across Alberta

  • 🤝 Support from industry voices and community members

This film is happening — and every bit of support helps carry it forward.

Help Preserve Alberta’s Film History

This is a community-driven documentary. Your support helps fund:

  • Production & travel

  • Archival research

  • Post-production & editing

  • Sharing this story with the world

Contact Us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!