Residents near Oshawa’s Civic Recreation Complex may notice an increased police presence, simulated gunfire, and special effects on Monday, July 13, as a major television production films scenes for the third season of the hit thriller Cross.
The City of Oshawa and production officials have advised the public that the activity is part of a professionally managed film shoot and does not pose any risk to public safety.
Filming is scheduled to take place July 12 through July 14, with production preparations beginning on Sunday and the primary action scenes being filmed on Monday.
Simulated Sniper Scene Planned
One of the key sequences being filmed involves simulated sniper activity using non-firing replica firearms, commonly referred to in the film industry as squibs. The props include replica rifles and pistols designed to create realistic action scenes without firing live ammunition.
Production crews will also use controlled special effects during filming. These include small pyrotechnic devices to simulate vehicle window impacts and shattered glass effects. Officials describe the effects as low-noise devices similar to the sound of a hammer striking glass rather than large explosions.
While residents may hear simulated gunfire during filming, the production team says noise levels will be limited and carefully controlled.
Police On Site for Safety
Paid-duty Durham Regional Police officers will be stationed at the filming location throughout production to manage traffic, ensure public safety, and prevent interruptions while scenes are being recorded.
Nearby residents have received advance notification about the production through information letters outlining the filming schedule and expected activity.
Officials stress that emergency services are aware of the production and that there is no cause for alarm if members of the public notice emergency vehicles or actors carrying prop weapons within the controlled filming area.
Popular Series Returns to Durham Region
The production is filming scenes for Season 3 of Cross, an espionage thriller starring Aldis Hodge, Isaiah Mustafa, and Juanita Jennings.
Operating under the production code name Good Shepherd, the series continues to film at locations across the Greater Toronto Area, including several sites in Durham Region.
The production’s base camp is located near Cherry Beach in Toronto, while Oshawa has become a recurring filming destination because of its diverse architecture, public facilities, and historic landmarks.
Oshawa Continues to Attract Film Productions
Oshawa and Durham Region have become increasingly popular with film and television producers, reinforcing the area’s reputation as part of “Hollywood North.”
One of the region’s best-known filming locations is Parkwood Estate, the historic mansion that has appeared in numerous television series, films, and streaming productions over the years.
Most recently, production wrapped at Parkwood Estate for the film adaptation of The Bell Jar, directed by acclaimed Canadian filmmaker Sarah Polley and marking the feature film debut of global music star Billie Eilish.
Local officials say attracting film and television productions continues to generate economic benefits for Oshawa by supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and showcasing the city to international audiences.
Residents are reminded that the temporary filming activity is professionally supervised and forms part of Oshawa’s growing role as one of Ontario’s leading production destinations.
