URGENT UPDATE: Myrtle Beach is positioning itself as a potential new hub for the film industry, with a major production currently underway along the Grand Strand. Visit Myrtle Beach is actively promoting the coastal area as an attractive filming destination, capitalizing on its diverse landscapes.
Stuart Butler, President of Visit Myrtle Beach, highlighted the area’s unique scenery, stating, “When you think about the different types, from the beaches, inlands, and the old plantation buildings, we really have a lot of diverse types of scenery here that make it great.”
As production crews flock to Myrtle Beach, Butler confirmed that the organization provides essential support, assisting with everything from permits to local resources including hotels and catering. “Often, we can help them navigate everything… So, really a resource they can lean on to help them navigate the community,” he added.
The impact of these film productions on the local economy is substantial, particularly during the off-season. Currently, a six-week shoot is employing over 50 crew members who are staying in local hotels, dining at restaurants, and contributing to retail businesses. “They’re hiring as much local talent as they can, so it’s giving work to these folks that are in the production industry that live here locally as well,” Butler explained.
The trend of “set jetting” is also on the rise, where audiences travel to locations featured in their favorite shows and movies. “Film production not only has a direct economic impact, but there’s also a big trend right now called ‘set jetting,’” Butler said.
Movie producer Ralph McCloud emphasized that films shot in Myrtle Beach could attract future tourists from around the country. “Then down the line, someone’s in Chicago or someone’s in North Dakota watching a movie about Myrtle Beach, ‘hey, I’ve never been there, let’s look into it,’” McCloud noted.
The proximity of various filming locations within a short distance makes Myrtle Beach particularly appealing to film crews. “You can be at the ocean, you can be in the waterway, you can be on a farm or a plantation; they are all 15 to 20 minutes away, and there’s a ton of accommodations,” McCloud stated.
Officials from the South Carolina Film Commission have begun recommending Myrtle Beach as a prime filming location, adding to its growing reputation. The state has previously served as the backdrop for iconic films and series including The Notebook, Forrest Gump, The Righteous Gemstones, and Outer Banks.
Looking ahead, Visit Myrtle Beach plans to launch a new website later this year, offering information for filmmakers interested in shooting along the Grand Strand. The initiative aims to elevate the area’s status in the film industry and stimulate economic growth.
Stay tuned for more updates as Myrtle Beach continues to develop its identity as a film-friendly destination, impacting local businesses and communities.
