Robert Duvall's Enduring Connection to Alberta's Film Industry
The passing of Robert Duvall at the age of 95 marks the loss of an iconic figure in cinema, but his legacy extends far beyond Hollywood. The Oscar and Emmy-winning actor, known for his powerful performances in westerns, forged a deep and lasting bond with Alberta's film and television industry, leaving an indelible mark through his work and heartfelt appreciation for the province.
A Western Haven in Alberta
Duvall's connection to Alberta was solidified through two major projects: the 2006 AMC miniseries Broken Trail and the 2003 feature film Open Range, co-starring Kevin Costner. Both productions were filmed in Alberta, leveraging its stunning landscapes to enhance their authentic western appeal. Broken Trail, in particular, was a landmark achievement as AMC's first originally scripted miniseries, earning four Emmy Awards, including a best-actor trophy for Duvall. He also served as an executive producer and received a Golden Globe nomination for his role, contributing to the series' three Globe nods overall.
These projects not only showcased Duvall's talent but also bolstered Alberta's reputation as a premier destination for high-profile western films. The actor's involvement helped attract attention to the region's cinematic potential, reinforcing its status as a go-to location for filmmakers seeking rugged, picturesque settings.
Heartfelt Praise for Alberta
Duvall was vocal about his affection for Alberta, often expressing admiration for its people and scenery. In a 2003 interview with the CanWest News Service while promoting Open Range, he stated, "I'll go on record as saying I really liked it up there — the people, the world-class guys on the crew." He even humorously noted the quality of local cowboys, saying, "There are good cowboys in Western Canada. They gave me a good horse," though he admitted one bucked him during training, leaving him "wracked up for a few weeks."
His fondness extended to the province's ambiance, as he told The Late Show with David Letterman that filming in Alberta was "like Texas without the accents." In a 2006 U.S. press conference for Broken Trail, he went further, declaring, "I like Alberta more than the rest of Canada. They're more like us." This sentiment highlighted his personal connection to the area, despite earlier controversial remarks where he questioned Canadian acting talent, which he later retracted by saying, "I made a statement before that there were no good actors up here. I eat my words."
Embracing Alberta's Culture
Beyond the film sets, Duvall immersed himself in Alberta's local culture, further cementing his bond with the province. He was a familiar face at Spruce Meadows, watching equestrian competitions incognito, as noted by Ron Southern, co-chairman in 2005, who described him "just sitting in the stands wearing a T-shirt, jeans and a cowboy hat, watching the show with no one bothering him." Duvall also participated in Calgary's iconic events, being white-hatted during a visit and attending rodeo events at the Stampede.
His passion for tango dancing led him and his wife, Luciana Pedraza, to frequent the Latin Corner Dance Studio in Eau Claire Market while filming Broken Trail. This cultural engagement even sparked a playful exchange with Edmonton actress and broadcast journalist Olivia Cheng, who was cast in the series. She recalled, "He booked a private room for about 20 for dinner on the first night of the two and a half months it took us to make the series," showcasing his camaraderie with local talent.
A Lasting Legacy
Robert Duvall's contributions to Alberta's film industry are a testament to his appreciation for the province's unique charm and professional resources. From praising Emerald Lake as "may be the prettiest place I've been in my life" to fostering relationships with local crews and actors, his impact resonates through the enduring success of projects like Broken Trail and Open Range. As the film community mourns his loss, his legacy in Alberta serves as a reminder of how art and place can intertwine to create unforgettable cinematic experiences.
