Wilmington, NC, affectionately nicknamed “Hollywood East,” has long been a vibrant hub for film and television production. With its diverse landscapes, experienced local crews, and established infrastructure, the city continues to attract a wide range of projects. As we move further into 2025, the future of the film industry in Wilmington looks promising, with several exciting developments on the horizon.

Current Productions and Recent Successes

Wilmington has been buzzing with activity. Currently, the third season of the popular streaming series “The Summer I Turned Pretty” is filming in the area, continuing its successful run and bringing significant economic impact to the region. Additionally, the new series “The Waterfront” and “The Runarounds” have recently wrapped filming in Wilmington and are anticipated to debut later this year or early next year, further showcasing the city’s versatility as a filming location. The feature film “Capsized” and “Merv” have also been recent productions in the area, demonstrating the ongoing attraction for both television and film projects.

The recently concluded year, 2024, was a strong one for NC’s film industry, with over $300 million in direct in-state spending. Wilmington played a significant role in this success, solidifying its position as a key player in the state’s film landscape.

Infrastructure Growth and Investment

A significant boost to Wilmington’s film industry is the recent expansion of Dark Horse Stages. The studio unveiled two new 20,000-square-foot sound stages in November 2024, adding to their existing state-of-the-art production space. This $20 million expansion enhances the city’s capacity to accommodate larger and more complex productions, making it an even more attractive destination for filmmakers. The new stages feature advanced technology and design, including impressive height and soundproofing capabilities.

Cinespace Studios, who acquired the Wilmington facilities of EUE/Screen Gems in 2023, also continues to be a cornerstone of the industry, offering extensive sound stages and production support facilities. Their ongoing presence and investment in the region underscore the long-term commitment to filmmaking in Wilmington.

New Projects and Future Potential

Looking ahead, there are several indicators of continued activity. Jonas Pate, the creator of the hit series “Outer Banks,” has launched a new production company focused on young adult content. Their first movie, a comedy titled “Driver’s Ed,” is scheduled to begin filming in Wilmington in early 2025. This venture promises to bring new projects and opportunities to the local film scene.

Film-Induced Tourism

Beyond the direct economic impact of production, Wilmington also benefits from film-induced tourism. The exposure the city receives as a backdrop for popular movies and TV shows attracts visitors who want to see the locations they’ve seen on screen, further boosting the local economy.

The future of the film industry in Wilmington, NC, appears bright. With ongoing productions, infrastructure expansion, new ventures, and the continued efforts of the local film commission, the “Hollywood East” legacy is set to thrive in the years to come, promising more exciting projects and economic benefits for the region.

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