‘Making movie magic’: Louisville earns national recognition as top city for filmmakers
By Joyce Ogirri
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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WLKY) — Louisville is getting national recognition as a place to shine on the big screen.
For the first time, MovieMaker Magazine has named Louisville one of the Best Places to Live and Work as a Moviemaker, ranking the city 16 out of 25 nationwide.
The list highlights cities offering strong tax incentives, diverse filming locations, a growing crew base, and an overall high quality of life.
“I just want to see us keep working and keep building this. It’s been so nice to watch it come from nothing,” said Andrea Ahl, hairstylist on “Dead Man’s Wire.”
Film professionals say the ranking reflects years of steady, intentional growth.
“We have the majority of our crew and vendors, along with diverse locations, all within 30 to 60 miles of downtown,” said Soozie Eastman, president, Louisville Film Office.
The recognition comes as Kentucky’s film industry continues to expand. Since 2022, hundreds of film and television projects have been approved for tax incentives, bringing millions of dollars in investment to the commonwealth.
One of the most recent productions helping boost Louisville’s profile is “Dead Man’s Wire,” which was released in theaters on Jan. 16.
“It was special, watching the actors every day, seeing the sets, and how hair, makeup, and costumes transformed each character into the 1970s,” said Laura Moser, assistant production coordinator, “Dead Man’s Wire.”
For many filmmakers, Louisville has become more than just a filming location; it’s a place they’ve grown to love.
“I fell in love with the people. I fell in love with the location with Louisville as a city,” said Veronica Radaelli, producer, “Dead Man’s Wire.”
Industry leaders say the national recognition is also helping develop the next generation of film professionals right here at home.
“It came to me. People are realizing you can stay home, be with your family, and still make movie magic,” said John Travisano, set designer, “Dead Man’s Wire.”
Others say being able to work locally makes all the difference.
“It’s nice to go to work and sleep in your own bed instead of having to move away. It’s nice to stay in your hometown and do what you love,” said Trevor Thompson, makeup artist, “Dead Man’s Wire.”
The momentum isn’t slowing down. The deal for “Dead Man’s Wire” was first made at the Sundance Film Festival two years ago.
This year, the president of the Louisville Film Office, Soozie Eastman, is back at Sundance, networking with producers and filmmakers to bring even more productions to Louisville.
As filmmakers across the country take notice, industry leaders say Louisville’s future in film looks brighter than ever.
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