Watch out Hollywood!
By: Andrea Trapani
The effects of the recent boom in the Michigan film industry are tangible. Local business owners, like Royal Oak barber Ted Widgren, are even being “discovered” by such notable Hollywood personalities as Clint Eastwood, who asked Mr. Widgren to act as an extra in his film Gran Torino, which is being filmed in suburbs around Detroit.
Identity’s own Meghan Edwards served as film industry expert in the latest issue of the Detroiter. “Cashing In,” an article exploring the steps local businesses can take to optimally reap the benefits of this emerging industry, offers insight to those businesses willing to cater to the newcomers.
Meghan’s advice: “Businesses looking to get involved in the film industry should work with a consultant. Do your research and make sure you’re partnering with the right people.”
S3 Entertainment Group, a film production services company with offices in Ferndale and L.A., is a good example of a company that is taking full advantage of the Michigan film boom, connecting filmmakers to the local services they need to insure smooth production. Businesses from carpenters and craftsmen to hotels, restaurants and advertising companies have big opportunities to “cash in” during this time of economic uncertainty.
