Considered one of the first gay Christmas romantic comedies produced by Netflix, Single All the Way (2021) shot some of its scenes in an unexpected location: the vibrant city of Montreal.
It features icons such as Jennifer Coolidge(Legally Blonde, The White Lotus), Kathy Najimy(Hocus Pocus), and Michael Urie(Ugly Betty). Take a behind-the-scenes look at this holiday phenomenon, filmed in chilly Quebec weather and packed with anecdotes!
The New Hampshire village where the story takes place is none other than the meticulously transformed Quebec metropolis. Attentive viewers will recognize some familiar Montreal addresses:
- Lisa ‘s bar is actually McKibbin’s Irish Pub on Bishop Street.
- Peter makes his video call in Le café Maman, located in the Griffintown district .
- The team filmed in neighborhoods such as NDG, Pointe-Claire and Montreal West.
- For the snowiest views, the natural backdrops of the Laurentians (Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts) were used.
One of the most charming anecdotes from the shoot concerns Kathy Najimy’s husband, Dan Finnerty. Due to border restrictions between Canada and the U.S. in 2021 (in the midst of a pandemic), he had to find a creative solution to accompany his wife to Montreal: he got a part! He plays Kevin, the friendly snow-clearer, and even wrote original songs for the film. This story perfectly illustrates the friendly, improvised atmosphere of the Quebec set.
And watch out… Spoiler! Nick ‘s final gift to Peter (the long-awaited plant store) is one of the film’s most touching moments. Screenwriter Chad Hodge revealed that Peter’s passion for plants was a direct tribute to his own fiancé. Hodge began writing Single All the Way just as he was beginning his relationship, imbuing the story with that personal, romantic touch.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCQxxqdowOg&t=12s
If the wintry charm of Single All the Way has left you longing for more, you should know that several intimate Montreal venues will be hosting Candlelight ‘s special Christmas concerts: a great way to spend some quality time with friends and family, and enjoy some holiday classics, while honoring the magic of the film shot right here.