Filmmakers have found reason to return to the Natural State.
Behind the scenes of the Arkansas film industry, one will find a network of support dedicated to enabling creative freedom.
The state is resource rich, both in its ever-growing talent and expertise. Not to mention a roster of more than 440 on-site filming locations and indoor studio spaces fit to bring any vision to life. From small town charm to bustling urban life, Arkansas’ built in character has made the state a sought-after venue to produce a film time and time again.
“Not only are we in constant production, but we’re in constant production with producers who have created content here before,” says Arkansas Film Commissioner Christopher Crane. “That doesn’t even go into what’s going on with our local content makers.”
Crane notes an out-of-state filmmaker’s return to a smaller market such as Arkansas gives credence to the effectiveness of state film incentives, crew base and infrastructure. The industry’s growth has called attention to every corner of the state, especially as productions look to head outside of popular locations in Central and Northwest Arkansas like Fayetteville, Bentonville, Springdale, Rogers and Little Rock.
Over 3,000 residents are employed directly by the state’s film industry and more than 5,700 are employed indirectly, according to the Motion Picture Association. In 2024, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission partnered with non-profit organization Low Key Arts to develop the state’s first film workforce development program. The free training program taught nearly 50 students skills associated with production, camera, art department and grip and electric roles — but not without the opportunity to apply the newfound knowledge.
“We’re helping spice up our crew bases, but not too much that we’re sending them to other markets,” says Crane. “We have a production right now using some of those students, who are enthusiastic and energized to get input into the industry. We’re looking at that as a major positive.”
Action in Arkansas
A thriving film industry depends on a strong crew workforce. Developing this crew base – from cinematographers to best boys and from gaffers to grips – is a key initiative for growing Arkansas’ film industry.
One program has found success in providing technical training for aspiring film production professionals, giving them the tools they need to work on film sets.
The READY FOR ACTION program is an innovative training program for individuals in Arkansas to break into the film industry and build sustainable rewarding careers. Partnering with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission and the Office of Skills Development, Low Key Arts offers cutting-edge apprenticeship program, which provides six weeks of comprehensive technical training in key production areas.
Forty participants recently completed the READY FOR ACTION program, and many of the trainees are currently working on a professional feature film in Little Rock, allowing them to earn a living as they fulfill their dreams. This initiative not only strengthens our local film crew base but also contributes to the growth of Arkansas’ creative economy.
“READY FOR ACTION is more than just a training program; it’s a pathway to employment with the rapidly expanding film industry in Arkansas,” said Jen Gerber, Film Program Director for Low Key Arts in Hot Springs. “We are dedicated to equipping aspiring filmmakers with the skills they need to thrive and this robust apprenticeship program empowers participants to not only pursue their passion for film but also to build a sustainable career that contributes to our local economy. We believe everyone should have the chance to dream big and achieve success in the world of cinema, regardless of their background or location. By nurturing homegrown talent through specialized training and paid apprenticeships, we are celebrating our state’s unique landscape while growing a vibrant film crew base right here in Arkansas.”
With specialized training and apprenticeships, the READY FOR ACTION program is making significant strides to grow Arkansas’ film industry, creating jobs that would otherwise flow to neighboring states and coastal cities. It not only boosts local economies throughout the state but also highlights the stunning natural beauty that Arkansas has to offer.
“A thriving film industry brings diverse revenue streams, attracts tourism, and promotes our state’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty,” Gerber said. “As we empower individuals with the skills needed to succeed in this dynamic field, we are also fostering an environment where creativity and innovation can flourish, ultimately benefiting all Arkansans.”
Create With Us
In comparison to larger film markets around the U.S., Arkansas makes it feasible to get new projects in motion.
Requiring a minimum spend of $50,000 within six months in connection with an in-state postproduction project, or $200,000 within six months for in-state production of a feature project, the state’s incentives help make Arkansas an ideal location to break into or grow within the film industry.
“We’re a great indie market,” says Crane. “I think our tax credit supports that and we will continue to look at ways we can improve it.”
A recent report on the state’s film production industry by the Arkansas Economic Development Institute revealed that for every $1 million spent on the rebate, $4 million returned to the state’s economy. In 2023, the state’s legislature made the move to advance the state’s film incentive.
Currently, the state offers its film incentive in the form of either a rebate or tax credit, up to a 30% total. The incentives mirror each other, providing a 25% base incentive on goods, services and non-resident labor; an additional incentive for below-the-line employees who are full-time Arkansas residents or veterans; or 5% for employing residents for hosting a production located in a Tier 3 or Tier 4 county.
Just as hits such as “True Detective,” “Mud” and “Freedom’s Path” found success in Arkansas, the state is prepared to support the next blockbuster hit.
An aspiring film production professional operates a slate during the READY FOR ACTION program.
Photo courtesy of Low Key Arts
