Charleston: The Unexpected Hollywood of the South

Charleston, the historic city known for its charming architecture and Southern hospitality, has quietly become a hub for the film industry. With its picturesque landscapes, diverse locations, and growing talent pool, the Holy City has emerged as a prime destination for major productions, challenging the traditional dominance of Hollywood. This article explores the city's rise as a filmmaking powerhouse and the opportunities it presents for aspiring actors, crew members, and the local community.

Lights, Camera, Charleston: The City's Cinematic Transformation

A Thriving Film Industry in the Lowcountry

According to a 2019 estimate from the former South Carolina Film Commissioner, Tom Clark, up to 95% of productions in the state are shot in Charleston. This statistic underscores the city's growing prominence as a filming location, attracting a diverse range of projects, from the hit series "Outer Banks" to the comedy "The Righteous Gemstones." The remote work era has further bolstered Charleston's appeal, as big-name studios seek out new, cost-effective locations with a readily available local workforce.

Embracing the "Mini-Hollywood" Vibe

Charleston's transformation into a filmmaking hub has not gone unnoticed by its residents. James Edward Fite, a Charleston native, has embraced the city's newfound status as a "mini-Hollywood," regularly appearing as a background actor in productions like "Vice Principals" and "The Righteous Gemstones." Fite's enthusiasm for the local film scene reflects a growing sense of pride and excitement among Charleston's residents, who are eager to be a part of the city's cinematic renaissance.

Opportunities for Aspiring Actors and Crew

The influx of major productions has opened up a wealth of opportunities for Charleston's aspiring actors and crew members. Stella Reimer, a 22-year-old Charleston native, has already amassed an impressive resume, appearing in projects like "Gemstones," "OBX," and "Suncoast." Similarly, Julie Doss, a Louisiana native who now calls Charleston home, has explored various roles in the industry, from background acting to directorial and production work.

The Challenges and Rewards of Background Acting

While the film industry in Charleston presents exciting prospects, the life of a background actor, or "BG," is not without its challenges. Isabel Crews, a College of Charleston graduate, has been a BG since the age of 14 and has learned to navigate the "hurry-up-and-wait" nature of the job. Despite the long hours and demanding conditions, Crews and others like Jill Paris, a 63-year-old Charleston resident, have found immense fulfillment in their BG work, with Paris even starting a successful tour business centered around the local film industry.

Charleston's Unique Advantages for Filmmakers

Charleston's status as a right-to-work state and its diverse array of picturesque locations have made it a prime destination for filmmakers. Linda Eisen, the owner of Coastal Talent Agency in Charleston, notes that the city's "fluid regional market" and the lack of union requirements for extras and stand-ins have created a relatively easy process for locals to become background actors.

The Future of Charleston's Film Industry

As Charleston continues to cement its reputation as a filmmaking hub, the opportunities for aspiring actors, crew members, and the local community are only expected to grow. Michael Smallwood, a professor at the College of Charleston, emphasizes that the city's film industry is no longer limited to the "80s" model, where one had to move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the industry. With the rise of remote work and the city's diverse talent pool, Charleston's status as a thriving film destination is poised to continue its upward trajectory, offering a unique and rewarding path for those seeking to break into the world of cinema.