Jason James’ Vancouver Favourites
Award-winning producer and director Jason James was born and raised in Vancouver, and continues to call the city home as he travels the globe for a multitude of projects. “I love that Vancouver feels like a big city, but is really just a small town,” says Jason. “You can’t walk down the street without running into an old friend and talking about real estate, or the rain.”
Jason’s thought-provoking – and yes, slightly bizarre – productions are hits among moviegoers and critics alike. That Burning Feeling, which follows the travails of a confirmed bachelor who comes face-to-face with a handful of one-night stands, won an award for “Best First Feature” at the 2015 Vancouver International Film Festival. Entanglement, starring Thomas Middleditch as a suicidal loner who accidentally falls in love with a woman who was nearly his sister, was released in 25 cities across North America. Jason also co-created and produced the CBC comedy series This Space for Rent, which was set in Vancouver.
Here are Jason’s favourite insider experiences in his home city:
I just moved to the Fraserhood district and Crowbar is an incredible find. They have the best cocktails, and they play old-school hip-hop!
I travel a lot for work, and BowsXArrows has the best coffee anytime, anywhere. For reals.
This Chinatown eatery has amazing food and cocktails. Plus, you walk in and it feels like a Wong Kar-Wai film.
Where else can you see a Dario Argento film, Star Wars burlesque or a talent show… all in the same night?!
For a good fade, go see Tony La! (… and while you’re there, check out the oh-so-tranquil Dr. Sun Yet-Sen Classical Chinese Gardens).