King of Killers series readying Saskatchewan, Canada shoot

New series King of Killers, based on an upcoming feature film of the same name, is shooting in Canadian province Saskatchewan this autumn.

The production is backed by the Creative Saskatchewan Feature Film and Television Production Grant Program, and marks the first major project to receive funding since the Government of Saskatchewan increased investment to film and TV incentives in the 2022-23 budget.

The TV series will be filmed at the John Hopkins Regina Soundstage. It tells the story of a group of international assassins who are contracted to take out the most dangerous killer in the world.

The show is a Saskatchewan-Manitoba co-production by the province's own Anand Ramayya and Kelly Balon of Karma Film Inc. and Juliette Hagopian of Manitoba’s Julijette Inc. It is developed and exec produced by Christopher Rush Harrington and Michael Hamilton Wright of Dovetail Media.

“Saskatchewan has the talent and skills that the world needs right now to meet the global demand for content, and this exciting news demonstrates our ability to attract large-scale productions, parks, culture and sport minister Laura Ross said.

“The positive benefits of projects this size are numerous and far-reaching. Industries such as retail, hospitality and the trades will get a boost, and job opportunities for local designers, costumers, performers, and writers will strengthen Saskatchewan’s creative sector,” she added.

The total funds available for the grant increased from $2m to $10m this year, helping to secure more and larger projects to the province. King of Killers is receiving more than $8m which surpasses the current funding threshold of $5m, but will be permitted provided it creates significant impact to the local economy.

CEO of Creative Saskatchewan said: “We're thrilled to be able to support productions like these that cast a wide net in terms of positive economic-ripple effects to our province.“

With an estimated spend of over $20 million on local labour, goods, and services, this boost of activity in our film and television sector puts us on the map and strengthens our industry for future opportunities.

Production will take place over three months, with four months allocated to post-production work in the province, according to Creative Saskatchewan.

Around 18 provincial performers and 100 provincial crew members will be hired for the TV project.