The recently released series *Every Year After*, which premiered on Prime Video on 10 June, has captivated viewers with its blend of romance and nostalgia, drawing inspiration from Carley Fortune’s novel *Every Summer After*. Central to the narrative are lead characters Persephone “Percy” Fraser, played by Sadie Soverall, and her ex-best friend and first love, Sam Florek, portrayed by Matt Cornett.
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Set in the fictional town of Barry’s Bay, Ontario, the story follows Percy as she returns to this quaint lakeside town to reconnect with Sam after years of estrangement. The setting is not merely a backdrop; it plays a significant role in the unfolding of their relationship, highlighted by the charming allure of the lake. The series even introduces a playful twist, with Sam engaging in a brief romance with a character named Lake.
When discussing the filming experience, Cornett noted that the “beautiful locations” were among his favourite aspects of working on the series. Both he and Soverall embraced the challenge of filming in the region, particularly with outdoor swimming scenes. Soverall commented on the frigid waters of Minaty Bay, asserting that while they were cold, the “beautiful” settings made it worthwhile, allowing for immersive moments that resonated with their characters’ journeys.
Despite its strong connection to the Canadian town of Barry’s Bay, where Fortune herself spent a significant portion of her childhood, the series was not filmed in that specific location. Interestingly, Fortune’s upbringing mirrored the experiences of her characters, as her family operated a restaurant near the lake, providing an authentic backdrop for the storytelling.
Bowen Island in British Columbia served as the filming site for *Every Year After*, chosen for its stunning landscapes that closely aligned with the vision Fortune had for her story. The decision to relocate the filming allowed the creators to showcase impressive natural scenery, including majestic mountains and picturesque waters, which enhanced the visual appeal of the series.
This choice was met with understanding from the series’ team. Showrunner Amy B. Harris explained that while they originally considered shooting in Ontario, the breathtaking elements found on Bowen Island were too compelling to ignore. Harris stated, “We didn’t want to lie and say it was Ontario” when the filming locations in British Columbia presented such breathtaking visuals.
Fortune expressed her firm belief in the importance of the setting, advocating for a portrayal that honoured the distinct beauty of British Columbia. She noted, “As a Canadian, we get very used to seeing our cities represent other places, so let’s let British Columbia be British Columbia for once.” Her insistence on authenticity played a crucial role in the overall aesthetic of the series.
The nod to Barry’s Bay continues to be a significant part of the show’s identity. The producers ensured that the essence of Fortune’s original creation remained intact, even with the geographical shift in filming locations. As the series builds upon themes of love, loss, and reconnection, the stunning backdrops serve to deepen the emotional resonance of the characters’ journeys.
As the cast continues to promote *Every Year After*, both Cornett and Soverall have shared their enthusiasm for their roles and the breathtaking locations where they filmed. The outdoor swimming sequences, particularly in Minaty Bay, brought added excitement to the production, despite the cold temperatures that often accompanied them.
With *Every Year After* now widely available, fans can immerse themselves in a romantic tale that beautifully entwines personal growth with the breathtaking landscapes of British Columbia, capturing the heart of Fortune’s storytelling and providing viewers with an enchanting viewing experience.