Birmingham Welcomes Movie Production at Local Airport
Birmingham, Ala. has once again found itself in the spotlight as more movie magic unfolds right here in the Magic City. The Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport recently announced that a production company has just wrapped up filming a movie at the airport. Despite the warm September weather, the crew got into the holiday spirit, transforming the airport into a winter wonderland complete with Christmas trees, wreaths, and shimmering lights.
The film, which carries the working title “Layover,” is an independent project and was shot almost entirely at the airport. According to spokesperson Kim Hunt, filming took place in several locations throughout the airport including the baggage claim, terminal gate, and even the parking deck. Notably, some scenes were filmed in areas that aren’t typically accessible to the public, giving the project a unique backdrop.
Economic Impact of Film Production
Movies have a significant impact on local economies, and this production is no exception. Jessica Moody, the Programs & Operations Director for Create Birmingham, spoke about the broader implications of film and television projects in the region. She noted, “Film is a huge economic development driver. About 60% of a film’s budget is spent on location. That means the people that they’re hiring, the hotels that they’re staying in, the restaurants that they’re eating in.”
Moody highlighted the indirect benefits to the local economy, saying, “You may not see a direct influx of that cash, but if the money was purple, you would see it floating all over the place.” This illustrates how the production can benefit various sectors in Birmingham, from hospitality to food services.
Coordination and Logistics
In preparation for the shoot, airport officials worked closely with the film crew to ensure minimal disruption for travelers. According to Hunt, the collaboration spanned several months and aimed to make the filming process as seamless as possible. “Our team really worked hard to make the process easy for cast and crew, but customers come first,” Hunt explained.
To further accommodate passengers, the crew chose to film predominantly during the evening and overnight hours. This considerate planning meant that most travelers continued on their journeys without interruption while the production took place around them.
What’s Next for “Layover”
As for when and where the film will be released, details are still under wraps. The airport and local officials are hopeful that as the project comes to completion, additional information about viewing opportunities will be made available to the public. For now, the airport community celebrates the creative activity taking place within its walls.
As Birmingham continues to grow as a hub for film and television, residents can look forward to more productions making their way to the city. With the collaborative efforts of organizations and local government, support for these endeavors means both an enhanced entertainment scene and a boost to the local economy.
Stay tuned for further updates on how “Layover” develops and the vibrant films that continue to showcase Birmingham as a distinctive backdrop. This charming city remains a canvas for storytelling, and we are eager to see what the future holds.
