
Meet the Creative Geniuses Behind Polar Opposites: How They Brought Antarctica to Life on Screen!
Meet the Cast of Polar Opposites
The Hallmark Channel’s Polar Opposites features a talented ensemble cast, bringing warmth and charm to this heartwarming adventure set against the icy landscapes of Patagonia and Ushuaia, Argentina.
Rhiannon Fish takes the lead as Emma, a determined woman embarking on a daring journey to Antarctica to reconnect with her father. Fish, known for her roles in Neighbours and The 100, delivers a captivating performance as the resourceful and spirited protagonist.
Opposite her is Markian Tarasiuk, who portrays Andy, an engineer with a calm and practical nature. Tarasiuk’s portrayal adds depth to the budding romance and adventure at the heart of the story. His previous work includes roles in Christmas Jars and 50 States of Fright.
Joining the lead duo is Maeve Quinlan, a seasoned actress who plays Peg, a character yet to be fully unveiled but integral to the narrative. Quinlan’s rich acting history includes appearances in Not Easily Broken and A Magic Christmas.
The cast also features Dean McDermott as Ian, bringing his charm and experience from projects like A Christmas Visitor and True Tori to this role.
Supporting roles are filled by rising talents like Raissa Xavier, Lillian Lenore, and Michel Hersch, who together round out the cast with memorable performances that complement the story’s emotional and adventurous arcs.
This talented lineup, under the skilled direction of Colin Theys, creates an engaging and heartfelt film that perfectly balances romance, adventure, and humor.
Breathtaking Filming Locations in Polar Opposites
Polar Opposites takes viewers on a visual journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, with filming taking place in Patagonia and Ushuaia, Argentina. These locations were chosen for their rugged, snow-covered beauty, perfectly doubling as the icy wilderness of Antarctica, where much of the film’s story is set.
Ushuaia, often called the “End of the World,” is a picturesque city at the southern tip of Argentina and serves as a gateway to Antarctica. Known for its dramatic landscapes of jagged peaks and pristine glaciers, it provided the ideal backdrop for Emma’s adventure. The production team embraced this unique setting, showcasing its raw beauty and immersing the audience in the journey.
The choice to film in these remote locations was not just about aesthetics. It added authenticity to the story and offered the cast a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Actor Dean McDermott, who plays Ian, shared his excitement about filming so close to Antarctica, even celebrating his birthday in Ushuaia. Meanwhile, actress Maeve Quinlan described her time in Patagonia as an unforgettable adventure, thanking the production team for such a unique opportunity.
Director Colin Theys and the entire crew embraced the challenges of filming in these extreme conditions, capturing the essence of the story while paying homage to the breathtaking scenery. Their efforts ensure that the setting becomes as much a character in the film as the people themselves, drawing viewers into the cold, magical world of Polar Opposites.

Behind the Scenes of Polar Opposites: A Glimpse into the Cast’s Experience
Filming Polar Opposites wasn’t just a job for the cast and crew—it was a memorable journey filled with camaraderie and awe-inspiring moments. Set against the backdrop of Patagonia and Ushuaia, Argentina, the production offered its team a chance to work in one of the most breathtaking and remote parts of the world.
Actor Dean McDermott, who plays Ian, shared his personal reflections during the shoot. Celebrating his birthday in Ushuaia, just a “stone’s throw” from Antarctica, he expressed deep gratitude for the experience, crediting his recovery journey for making it all possible. His heartfelt posts on social media highlighted not just his professional role but also the personal significance of being part of such a unique project.
Meanwhile, Maeve Quinlan, who plays Peg, called the shoot an “experience of a lifetime.” She took to Instagram to thank the production team, director Colin Theys, and her fellow cast members for making the journey unforgettable. Her posts were filled with enthusiasm, showcasing behind-the-scenes snapshots and heartfelt words about the bonds she formed with the cast and crew.
The team at Hollyware Productions also shared their joy, posting playful updates on social media, including moments with penguins featured in the film. The collaborative spirit and lighthearted fun were evident in their posts, capturing the tight-knit atmosphere of the production.
For the cast and crew, filming Polar Opposites wasn’t just about creating a movie—it was about forging connections, overcoming challenges, and embracing the beauty of their extraordinary surroundings.
The Heartwarming Plot of Polar Opposites
At its core, Polar Opposites is a story of determination, love, and self-discovery set against the icy backdrop of Antarctica. The movie follows Emma, played by Rhiannon Fish, as she embarks on an extraordinary journey to reconnect with her father. However, the adventure is far from straightforward.
Emma’s path takes her to South America, where she faces an unexpected challenge—she doesn’t have a permit to enter Antarctica. Desperate to continue her journey, she sneaks onto a cruise ship, setting the stage for an adventure that will change her life.
Onboard, Emma meets Andy, portrayed by Markian Tarasiuk. Andy, a practical and steady engineer, is the polar opposite of Emma’s spirited and impulsive nature. Despite their differences, the two form an unlikely connection that becomes central to the story. Their growing bond not only helps Emma navigate the physical challenges of her journey but also offers emotional support as she confronts her fears and pushes forward to find her father.
The film beautifully intertwines romance and adventure, balancing the icy, rugged landscapes of Antarctica with the warmth of human connection. The dynamic between Emma and Andy evolves naturally, showcasing how opposites can complement each other in the most unexpected ways.
With its heartfelt narrative and breathtaking scenery, Polar Opposites is a perfect blend of emotional depth and lighthearted moments, making it a must-watch for fans of romance and adventure.
The Creative Minds Behind Polar Opposites
The success of Polar Opposites owes much to the talented team behind the scenes, who brought this heartwarming Hallmark movie to life. From its conception to the stunning visuals on screen, every aspect of the film reflects their dedication and expertise.
Colin Theys, the film’s director, played a pivotal role in shaping its narrative and visual style. Known for his ability to craft engaging and emotionally resonant stories, Theys captured both the grandeur of Patagonia’s landscapes and the intimate moments between characters, creating a seamless blend of adventure and romance.
The screenplay was penned by Barbara Kymlicka, whose thoughtful writing brought depth to the characters and crafted a compelling storyline. Her work ensures that Emma’s journey to Antarctica resonates with themes of love, perseverance, and self-discovery.
The production was spearheaded by David Boyles, whose efforts as the producer ensured the project ran smoothly. Meanwhile, Timothy O. Johnson and Joseph Wilka served as executive producers, contributing their vision and expertise to elevate the film’s quality. Lisa Alford, as co-executive producer, played a crucial role in managing the finer details of the production process.
Together, this team created a cinematic experience that not only entertains but also transports viewers to the icy, picturesque landscapes of the southern hemisphere. Their collaborative effort is evident in every frame of Polar Opposites, showcasing a perfect harmony between storytelling and stunning visuals.