If you want to work in the film industry, do you have to be in Hollywood? Yes and no – it completely depends on what exactly you want to do. If you want to work in camera, in an office position, costuming, a location-specific role, then there are markets outside of the Los Angeles area where you can get your start and move up the ladder. However, if you want to work in writing, then Hollywood is definitely the place to be – this is where the writing happens!
Naturally, there are just more career opportunities closer to the big studios. So, while it is harder to piece together a film career outside of LA, it is possible – especially as the film industry expands into other states starting to play prominent roles in the film industry. In the end, it’s all about how hard you work for it, the talent you have to offer, and how well you network.
Check Out These 4 Up & Comings States in the Film Industry!
Georgia
Georgia is now the third largest state in the US for film and television production, bringing in billions of dollars each year and creating a range of career opportunities for those interested in working in the film and television industry. Georgia has a number of major film studios and production companies based in the state, which have contributed to the success of a number of high-profile projects such as “The Walking Dead,” “The Hunger Games,” “Stranger Things,” “Black Panther,” and “Avengers: Infinity War.”
The film industry in Georgia offers a range of career opportunities, including directors, producers, actors, cinematographers, stunt doubles, and screenwriters. With hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, you can build a fulfilling and rewarding career in the Georgia film industry.
Utah
Utah is a state with a thriving film industry, which is supported by the Utah Film Commission and is home to several film production companies. The state has a long history of film and television production, and has been the location for many notable films and TV shows such as “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “127 Hours,” “Yellowstone,” and “Big Love.” The state offers a range of diverse locations for filming, including mountains, forests, desert landscapes, and urban settings. The film industry in Utah has seen significant growth in recent years, creating more opportunities for those looking for film jobs in the state as actors, writers, producers, or crew members.
Utah is also home to the Sundance Film Festival, an annual event that takes place in Park City. The festival was founded in 1978 by Robert Redford and is now one of the most well-known and respected film festivals in the world. It is known for showcasing independent films, both feature-length and short, and has helped launch the careers of many successful filmmakers. The festival also hosts panels and workshops for filmmakers to learn and network with industry professionals. Film festivals like Sundance are an important aspect of the film industry, serving as a platform for filmmakers to present their work and potentially secure distribution agreements.
New York
The film and television industry in New York is always growing, with many major studios and film production companies based in the city. This offers a range of opportunities for those looking to pursue careers in the film industry, including positions in producing, directing, writing, and crew work. New York City is also a popular location for acting, with many TV shows, films, and theater productions being shot in the city. There are opportunities for traditional acting roles as well as voiceover work and commercials.
Many actors start their careers in New York by auditioning for theater productions and then transitioning to TV and film work. The New York film production scene is constantly expanding, with many internships and entry-level positions available to help gain experience and build a resume.
New Mexico
The film industry in New Mexico is a growing and thriving industry that provides many career opportunities for those interested in working in the entertainment industry. Some ways to get involved in the film industry in New Mexico include through local film studios and local organizations.
One important resource for those looking to break into the film industry in New Mexico is the New Mexico Film Office, a state agency that serves as a resource for the film, television, and media industry in the state. It is responsible for promoting the state as a location for film and media production, as well as providing support and assistance to production companies and other industry professionals working in the state.
Want to Work in Hollywood? Learn to Write!
While you could potentially carve out a great entertainment career in any of the above filmmaking states, it’s important to note that if Hollywood is the goal, then that is where you need to be. As they say, you interview today to be hired tomorrow.
This is especially true when it comes to the screenwriting world. If you want to write great films, then you’ll want to learn from someone experienced in the industry. Michael Jamin, former King of the Hill screenwriter, knows the film industry and what it takes to get your work seen. Be sure to check out his online TV writing courses!
