Parts of Newmarket’s historic Main Street remained illuminated by Christmas lights well into January this year as local film production company Brain Power Studio continues shooting a movie.
A Town of Newmarket spokesperson confirmed that Brain Power Studio had been shooting a Christmas movie on Main Street this month.
Various signs of film production have been located around Main Street this month, including camera equipment, set designs and signs denoting areas in use as film sets.
NewmarketToday did not receive a reply to a request for comment from Brain Power about the content of the project before publication deadline.
The production and distribution company has made movies for Netflix, Lifetime, Amazon and others, most of the romance genre.
Mayor John Taylor commented on the project that residents may have noticed taking place on historic Main Street, speaking to the benefits that an active entertainment scene has on the town, as well as his excitement surrounding the project.
“Newmarket’s award-winning Main Street and downtown continue to set the scene for filming by local Brain Power Studio,” Taylor said.
“Newmarket is proud to be home to Brain Power Studios, a local business thriving on our Main Street that further supports the local economy and helps put Newmarket on the big screen. We always love seeing our town in the backdrop for made-in-Newmarket movies.”
John Comeau, manager of regulatory services for the town, confirmed that Brain Power Studio received film permits for Jan. 15, 16 and 20 as well as a road occupancy permit to allow for filming and equipment on Newmarket sidewalks and parking spaces.
“Filming primarily took place inside the company’s studio on Main Street with some brief scenes filmed on the sidewalk in front of the business and along Main Street. On Monday, Jan. 20, filming primarily took place inside the Newmarket Public Library, making use of the space while it was closed,” Comeau said.
Comeau remains hopeful that Newmarket will continue to benefit from Brain Power Studio and other companies that use the town’s resources for their projects.
“The town continues to work with production companies to provide the backdrop for shows and movies to boost excitement and economic vibrancy while being mindful of the impact to businesses and residents. All filming downtown, within the special film zone, requires a contribution to support the Business Improvement Area (BIA) and downtown economic development,” Comeau said.