January 14, 2021

Wilmington’s film industry makes a comeback after COVID-19 lockdown (theseahawk.org)

Beginning in the early 1980s, Wilmington became a go–to location for many film productions—ranging from horror to crime to romance. At the beginning, producers filmed in Wilmington to capture a location that offered a small town feel as well as the opportunity to explore city skylines and coastlines. Pretty soon the streets of Wilmington and the surrounding beaches became a film set all on their own. 

With Wilmington’s historical buildings and long narrow streets, combined with the feeling of a coastal town, film was just the beginning of what gave this quiet North Carolina town its nickname: “Hollywood of the East”. The land surrounding Wilmington is non-descript so the story could be set anywhere, and Wilmington would still hold its name as a perfect filming location. Being just far enough south to maintain mild weather year around, climate did not turn people away from this then quiet coastal town.

By: Kiley Woods

Continue Reading at theseahawk.org

Chicago film and television industry embraces COVID-19 reality (dailynorthwestern.com)

After almost a year of staying home and social distancing, the film and television industry has adapted to the consequences of COVID-19. Although the future still remains unclear, professionals are optimistic about a prompt return to filming.

“COVID-19 effectively stopped a majority of productions immediately, which caused a cascading effect, shutting down businesses that depend on the film and TV industry, like caterers, production equipment rental businesses, post production houses,” Chicago freelance television producer Craig J. Harris said.

Harris, who has won local Emmy awards for his previous works, said COVID-19 disrupted his filming process as a producer, as some workers didn’t want to risk their health, making it difficult to hire people.

By: Rayna Song

Continue Reading at dailynorthwestern.com