Saskatchewan-made Christmas film to debut in Maple Creek.

A made-in-Saskatchewan Christmas film is premiering Friday night in Maple Creek.

‘A Cowboy Christmas’ is a holiday-themed romantic comedy that was shot in the community in March thanks in part to a Creative Saskatchewan Feature Film and Television Production Grant. The movie was produced by Regina-based Trilight Entertainment.

Laura Ross, Saskatchewan’s minister for parks, culture and sport said that it’s exciting to support productions such as this.

“The benefits of projects like this are numerous and cast a wide net in terms of the positive economic effects in Saskatchewan,” Ross said in a news release.

According to Creative Saskatchewan, the film tells the tale of “a successful marketing executive who is sent to a guest ranch to woo a new client. She braves an unplugged life, outwits the schemes of an ambitious co-worker, and wins the reluctant heart of a handsome cowboy.”

Creative Saskatchewan invested $172,000 into the production, which is expected to generate $800,000 in economic activity for the province.

Trilight Entertainment producer Jessica Watch said the residents of Maple Creek were very helpful during the film’s production.

“They went above and beyond in every aspect to make this production happen and run as smoothly as it did. Every person we met wanted to help. They welcomed us with open arms, and we could not be more grateful for their help and support,” Watch said in the same release.

Around 200 locals participated in the production, with tasks that included decorating the main street, acting as extras in the film, and recreating their seasonal market so it could be featured as a set.

The film’s debut will also act as a fundraiser for the community. Attendees at the event Friday will be able to meet the film crew, take pictures on the red carpet, and enjoy local food.

The film is set to be released internationally this winter, and the trailer can be viewed on YouTube.