Michigan = The New Hollywood?

"Lights, Camera, Northern Michigan.” That is the buzz right now as the region is being considered for five major film projects with A-list producers, directors and actors. Currently a movie project starring Ray Liotta (Youth in Revolt) is being filmed in Frankfort in Benzie County. The interest in Northern Michigan for major film projects is due in part to the new film incentives package introduced by Governor Granholm and the legislature this past spring.

Another big attraction to Northern Michigan is the “film culture” created here by the Traverse City Film Festival. From the inception of the Festival its organizers, New York Times best selling author Doug Stanton, photographer David Williams and Oscar winning filmmaker Michael Moore envisioned their efforts would showcase the region as perfect for film projects. Moore’s Hollywood connection has helped to attract several producers, directors and stars to the Festival, all who have raved about the region.


Producer Bob Brown of Charity Island Films has been making movies in Michigan for 10 years and believes the state is perfect for film making. He worked for five years to get the incentives passed. Brown will be filming his latest movie “The Bassmaster” in Traverse City this September and October. He will have A-list actors and director Angelo Pizzo of “Hoosiers” and “Rudy” fame.

To help Northern Michigan communities prepare for the film industry, Stampfler is collaborating with Deb Havens of the West Michigan Film Video Alliance to host the Northern Michigan Film Forum, July 21-22. The two day event will include industry experts and a session titled “When Hollywood Comes To Town.”

To learn more about the July 21-22 Northern Michigan Film Forum contact Deb Havens at 616-885-2961. If you are interested in registering your services to be a part of the film industry in Michigan check out www.wmfva.org. To view the agenda and scheduled speakers visit michiganfilmnews.blogspot.com or mpami.org where you can register for the event. (Article by Rick Coates).

SO, what do these film incentives mean for Michigan? How will the economy be affected by the opening of production houses in our own state? Will Hollywood flock to the Mitten State? As a film student, you may be luckier than you think...how will you take advantage of the potential for opportunity right in your own backyard? Post links, discussion and advice for those looking to get involved...