Tourism Office Takes Over ‘Film Indiana’
The state effort to attract film and video production is under new leadership. Film Indiana is now under the umbrella of the Indiana Office of Tourism Development. The state says Indiana is home to 45 known filmmakers and production companies and over 600 Hoosiers are currently connected to the industry. Amy Howell, a 19-year television production veteran, will serve as Film Indiana director. In an exclusive interview this weekend on Inside INdiana Business Television, Tourism Executive Director Mark Newman said a boost in film production can benefit the state’s economy.
"We’ve got the resources here, we’ve got the people here and the companies that could do the good work for this industry," said Newman. Since 1949, more than 100 films have been made in full or in part here, including well-known titles such as A Nightmare on Elm Street, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Rudy, A League of Their Own and Hoosiers.
Newman says Film Indiana "fits nicely with our broader strategy for marketing Indiana assets and destinations. We have a diverse mix of natural landscapes, rural settings and urban places that appeal to site selectors. Our ambition is to ultimately offer grants and other resources to local communities to bolster their recruitment efforts." Film Indiana’s website will host a database and production services directory to provide technical support to the industry.
Howell calls Indiana a "production-friendly" state and says Film Indiana’s goal is to showcase assets throughout the state, Hoosier Hospitality and boost the economy. It will build relationships with visitor bureaus, chambers of commerce, businesses and historic sites, as well as engage in partnerships with film festivals to bring in more productions. You can connect to more about Film Indiana at its website and Facebook page.