The Kamloops Film Society and the Kamloops Museum and Archives have partnered to present Wide Angle, a new temporary exhibition open for viewing until September 27, 2025.
The landscape of film in Kamloops. The landscape of Kamloops in film.
Wide Angle highlights the rich cinematic history of Kamloops, emphasizing the urban and natural landscapes that have served as a backdrop for countless films. Featuring an array of historical artifacts, photographs, and multimedia elements, this special exhibition marks two significant milestones: the 70th anniversary of the Paramount Theatre and a half century of cinematic storytelling with the Kamloops Film Society.
From dusty western landscapes to neon-lit downtown streets, this city has set the stage for stories that span generations. “This is an exciting collaboration for the Kamloops Museum and Archives,” said Julia Cyr, the City’s Museum Supervisor. “The Kamloops landscape has played such an integral role in so many films, and it has been a joy to see that come to life during this exhibition.”
Step inside the Kamloops Museum and Archives and explore the way Kamloops has shaped film, and the way film has shaped Kamloops. Archival footage, behind-the-scenes stories, and a celebration of the moments that made movie magic right here at home from early silent films with a noisy, hand cranked projector to current techniques and stories. Conversation is encouraged around the exhibition, as the gallery is meant to be lively and participatory. Visitors can engage in activities, creating an immersive and interactive experience that invites the community to celebrate local heritage through the lens of film.
“Cinema has long been a vital part of our community’s cultural fabric, shaping our stories, bringing us together, and inspiring new generations. This exhibit is a wonderful way to celebrate the wider history of film in our region while also recognizing the role that spaces like the Paramount play in shaping our cultural identity,” said Colette Abbott, Kamloops Film Society Executive Director. “As the Kamloops Film Society celebrates the Paramount Theatre’s 70th anniversary, we recognize not just its rich history, but also the potential it holds as a vibrant downtown cultural space for the future. We appreciate the Kamloops Museum and Archives for leading this important initiative and for inviting us to be part of this celebration of cinema’s enduring impact.”
Throughout the exhibition, the museum is hosting a series of activities in connection to Wide Angle, including film screenings, talks by local directors, and a school program specially designed for School District No.73. For more information regarding programming connected to Wide Angle, visit KamloopsMuseum.ca or explore the City of Kamloops Activity Guide.
About the Kamloops Museum Archives
The Kamloops Museum and Archives is host to an extensive collection of photographs, documents, and artifacts, preserving, celebrating and sharing the rich history of Kamloops and the surrounding region. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30am – 4:30pm. Discover what else is open for viewing on their website.
About the Kamloops Film Society
The Kamloops Film Society (KFS) is the umbrella organization that operates the Paramount Theatre as well as running the annual March Kamloops Film Festival (KFF), the Kamloops Independent Short Shorts Festival (KISS), as well as hosting film series and several micro-festivals. Discover everything they do on their website.
Image credit: Beth Taylor, OKGN Co.
