The Growing Film Industry in West Virginia with Dave Lavender
In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Dave Lavender about film and television production in West Virginia. Dave runs the West Virginia Film Office, which operates within the West Virginia Department of Economic Development.
The film office provides services to film and TV productions, maintaining a website with a database of crew members, services, and over 5,000 locations. West Virginia offers a variety of filming locations with diverse scenery. The state has a Mid-Atlantic, southern, and northern feel, making it adaptable for different productions. Iconic locations like the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, Moundsville Prison, and the New River Gorge National Park attract filmmakers.
West Virginia has doubled for many locations in films. Wheeling has been used to represent New York, and the state’s unique architecture adds to its appeal. The film office has been operational for three years and has supported over 100 productions. In two years, the state has hosted three Super Bowl commercials, including spots for Kawasaki Ridge, Google, and Rocket Mortgage.
Dave shares that winter is a busy time for the film office as they prepare for upcoming productions. A major company is scouting locations in the Panhandle, a movie is about to start filming near Martinsburg, and a TV show is scheduled to shoot in Wayne County. Each region of the state has its own identity and skilled workforce, contributing to a growing film industry.
There are many ways for people to get involved in filmmaking. Groups like the West Virginia Filmmakers Guild and Tri-State Film Club offer networking and training opportunities. The state has also introduced a BFA in filmmaking at Marshall University. Events such as the Appalachian Film Festival and programs at the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame provide further chances to connect with the industry.
The film industry requires a variety of skills beyond acting and directing. Carpenters, painters, makeup artists, animators, and even accountants play a role in production. Collaboration is key, and West Virginia’s creative and supportive community makes it an attractive place for filmmakers.
West Virginia’s welcoming environment and strong storytelling culture create a positive experience for productions. Filmmakers appreciate the state’s cooperative approach compared to larger cities. The film office works closely with municipalities and tourism bureaus to facilitate smooth operations for visiting productions.
Dave encourages people to support local film festivals, including the West Virginia International Film Festival, which has an Oscar party and a significant announcement coming soon. He expresses excitement about upcoming projects and the continued growth of the industry in the state.