URGENCE ALERT: Myrtle Beach, SC is rapidly positioning itself as a new hub for the film industry, with a major production currently underway along the Grand Strand. Visit Myrtle Beach is spearheading efforts to attract filmmakers by highlighting the area’s diverse landscapes, making the region an ideal filming location.
“When you think about the different types of scenery, from the beaches to the inlands and old plantation buildings, we have a lot of diverse types of scenery here that make it great,” stated Stuart Butler, President of Visit Myrtle Beach. This initiative is crucial not only for increasing film production but also for boosting the local economy.
Currently, a film shoot is taking place over a six-week period, employing over 50 crew members who are staying in local hotels, dining at restaurants, and visiting attractions. Butler emphasized the economic impact, saying, “They’re spending money at retail stores and hiring as much local talent as they can, providing work for those in the production industry.”
The trend of “set jetting”—where fans visit locations featured in films and TV shows—further enhances Myrtle Beach’s appeal. Ralph McCloud, a film producer, noted the potential long-term benefits: “Someone in Chicago or North Dakota watching a movie about Myrtle Beach might say, ‘Hey, I’ve never been there, let’s look into it.’”
Myrtle Beach boasts a unique advantage for filmmakers, with various locations situated within a short distance of one another. As McCloud pointed out, “You can be at the ocean, the waterway, or on a farm, with all locations just 15 to 20 minutes apart, which makes it practical for film crews.”
In a significant endorsement, the South Carolina Film Commission has begun recommending Myrtle Beach as a prime filming destination, joining the ranks of other iconic South Carolina filming sites like “The Notebook” and “Forrest Gump.”
Visit Myrtle Beach is also set to launch a new website later this year, aimed at providing resources and information for production crews interested in filming along the Grand Strand. This move underscores the area’s commitment to becoming a key player in the film industry.
As this story develops, Myrtle Beach is poised to transform not just its economic landscape but also its cultural identity, making it a destination worth watching. Share this exciting news and stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story!
