The Avengers

In August, Cleveland became Hollywood...Midwest style.  The Avengers movie began filming downtown.  I put in my resume months ago, but did not get a call to be part of the stylist team for the movie.  I do know a lot of the crew came in from LA, so I was not too upset that I wasn't called.  However, it would have been an amazing experience.  The North Coast will be part of at least 11 films this year alone; all scheduled to be filmed here in Cleveland.  With the Ohio Film Tax Credit, film companies are putting us on top of their destination list for filming.  The Cleveland Film Commission states that their mission is, “to promote the increase of media production in Northeast Ohio using effective strategies for attraction and workforce development including an artistic infrastructure through film.”

Some of my friends were cast as extras.  One played a scientist and was bussed to Toledo for filming.  Another was in a scene running through downtown while things were blowing up around her.  In the midst of running, another woman fell and was nearly trampled.   An ambulance was even called for her.  Most set details have been hush-hush. Making this type of blockbuster hit, production doesn’t want to risk ANYTHING getting out about the plot.

Movie makers say 20% of the film will be shot in Cleveland.  Many people have flocked to E. 9th Street or Public Square to get a glimpse of the set and try to see a cast member.  This is all new to Clevelanders, but I predict very soon it will be another ordinary occurrence.  Those of us working downtown will be complaining about how it is inconvenient to get around the city streets with closures and traffic backups.  Right now everyone seems happy, but more movies mean more traffic messes and setbacks for commuters.  Hopefully those complaints won't convince Hollywood that we don't want them here.  Our economy in the former steel belt capital is struggling so much that ANY business we can sustain will be a great kick start to the future of the NEW Cleveland, which city planners are actively working towards and proud Clevelanders applaud.

Photo credit: MetroMix

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