The Largeman Collection - Howard Finster

CineForge Co-op - How Can You Be a Part Of Growing Local Film

By Paul Rowe

As highlighted in the Annual Slate (see January’s edition), local filmmaking is experiencing significant growth. This year, a surge of films are in development in our area, and to transform this into a true cinematic tsunami, we need support, creativity, and ingenuity to bring our productions to life and grow a rich and sustainable industry.

Below, you’ll find insider-info on the key challenges our local filmmakers face — opportunities for you, the community, to help in our cinematic revival.

CHALLENGE #1: FUNDING

Lack of funding has long been a major challenge for local filmmakers, but exciting new opportunities are emerging.

“What we need the most from the local community is support. It makes things a little easier when you know you have someone behind you.”

In 2024, the launch of the Columbus Film Fund Local Filmmakers Grant marked a significant step forward in supporting local talent, and we remain hopeful for its return in 2025. Adding to this momentum, CineForge and contributing local production companies will introduce a screenplay contest in late 2025, giving one or more winners the chance to see their short script produced in a series inspired by Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Black Mirror, and The Twilight Zone, with distribution on a major streaming platform. The Columbus Film Fund incentive, designed to attract productions to Columbus, is helping to grow the city’s filmmaking presence. However, expanding opportunities for local productions remains a significant area of opportunity and is fundamental to attracting and supporting outside productions.

For independent filmmakers, options like self-funding, crowdfunding, and screenplay contests are incredibly difficult and oftentimes require luck in abundance.

CHALLENGE #2: CREW

Due to the current lack of sustainable entertainment jobs in and around Columbus, many filmmakers rely on a dedicated local crew—often a close-knit group they’ve helped build—who frequently collaborate on projects. These passionate individuals balance their filmmaking aspirations with their full-time jobs, and while some are fortunate to work in adjacent industries, most would eagerly commit to full-time film work if the opportunity existed. And those opportunities do exist—elsewhere, if only for now.

“I want filmmakers to feel comfortable reaching out to each other…I’d love for us, as filmmakers, to come together, support each other, and help make those voices heard.” Lucas Hicks

The challenge we face is clear: to retain and grow our talented crew, we need a sustainable film economy that provides consistent, year-round opportunities. By continuing to build momentum, attracting more productions, and expanding local funding and support, Columbus has the potential to become a thriving hub for filmmakers—one where local talent can stay, collaborate, and flourish without having to look elsewhere.

“We need more stories to tell and more creatives interested in putting in the work to tell them.” Zack Collins

CHALLENGE #3: CAST

Columbus has a rich tradition of investing in the theatre arts, with institutions like the Springer Opera House and RiverCenter providing incredible opportunities for stage actors. This strong theatrical foundation offers a valuable resource for filmmakers seeking talented performers while also giving stage actors the chance to expand their experience into film. While transitioning from stage to screen requires some adjustment, it’s a skill which can be honed through training.

“I think Columbus is a hotspot for artistic talent and I’d love to work with all who want to play a role in this film, big or small.” Devin Daisean

“Support! Sharing posts takes seconds. We also love to work with amazing local talent and crew.” Douglas Hampton Right now, there are no dedicated film acting classes that we’re aware of—but that presents an exciting opportunity. As the local film scene grows, the demand for training will only increase, paving the way for workshops, classes, and mentorship programs to help bridge the gap. With the right support, Columbus can become not just a theater hub, but a well-rounded performing arts powerhouse which nurtures talent across both stage and screen.

“The thing I’m relying on the most is local talent, for both cast and crew, there is so much untapped potential here and I’m excited to let everyone’s work shine through.” Erin Walsh

CHALLENGE #4: EQUIPMENT RENTALS

The reality is that access to filmmaking equipment in Columbus is currently limited, with rentals primarily available through institutions like Columbus State University and Georgia Film Academy. While these resources are valuable, filmmakers often need additional gear, which may already be in use for other services, like wedding videography.

However, this challenge also presents an exciting opportunity for growth. As the local film industry expands, so does the potential for new rental services, partnerships, and shared equipment programs to emerge. In the meantime, filmmakers continue to find creative solutions—whether through collaboration, borrowing, or pooling resources—to bring their visions to life. With increasing demand, Columbus is well-positioned to develop its own infrastructure, making high-quality equipment more accessible and further strengthening the local film community.

“When we begin, we’ll need a few capable volunteers for Production Assistants. Other than that, we’ll just need the support of Columbus’s great film community.” Payton King

CHALLENGE #5: LOCATIONS

Securing film-friendly locations in Columbus can be both a challenge and an opportunity. While some property owners may be hesitant, others—especially those excited about the growing industry—are eager to welcome productions and see the creative process firsthand. Compared to Atlanta, where navigating permits and regulations can be complex and costly, Columbus offers a fresh landscape with untapped potential for filmmakers to establish strong community partnerships.

How can you help?

While investing in a production, supporting a crowdfunding campaign or (if you run a restaurant) offering to donate crafty (industry lingo for food) is the best way to help the local independent filmmakers, there are other substantial ways to help, such as offering locations, props, your time or even sharing a connection to someone that can offer the specific help a filmmaker needs can make ALL the difference.

A final note to my fellow filmmakers. The key to building a thriving film industry here is simple: keep making films. As we continue to grow, more businesses, property owners, and investors will recognize the value of supporting local productions.

To borrow from Field of Dreams, “Build it, and they will come.” And in Columbus, we’re already laying the foundation for something incredible.