If you've ever wondered how to build a film career without living in LA or NYC, you're not alone. A lot of people feel stuck when they realize they live in a small town or somewhere far from the major film hubs. But the good news is — you can break into the movie business no matter where you live. You just need the right strategy.
Let’s dive into some real-world ways you can stay connected, build your career, and be seen as a serious player — even if you're far from Hollywood.
Shooting Movies in Small Towns Can Be a Huge Advantage
One of the first things to realize is that making movies in smaller towns can actually work for you, not against you. In major cities like LA or New York, film crews are just part of the background. But in smaller towns, a movie shoot feels like a big event. People get excited. You might even land better deals, more community support, and easier access to locations and resources.
Plus, a lot of states offer tax incentives to filmmakers. So not only could you save money, but you could also create buzz that you wouldn't get in places where filming is an everyday thing.
The Key to Staying Connected: Go to Film Markets
Now, just because you're filming locally doesn’t mean you should stay local in every way. If you want to build a real film career without living in LA or NYC, you need to show up where the industry gathers — and that means film markets.
I'm talking about the big ones like:
- The American Film Market (AFM) in Santa Monica
- The European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin
- The Marché du Film in Cannes
I see it all the time: people who don’t live in LA or New York but are regulars at these markets. And they are 100% part of the business. Being there gives you visibility and legitimacy. People start to recognize you. They see you working, and that matters.
Funny enough, I sometimes see people at markets who live just a few miles away from me, but we only cross paths when we’re both across the world at a film event!
Why Film Festivals Matter Too
Another great move is to attend major film festivals — not just the small local ones. Go to the festivals where it means something to be there. Even if you don't have a movie playing, being in that atmosphere, meeting people, and networking can open doors.
Festivals are packed with filmmakers, producers, investors, and distributors. It’s where real connections happen. Showing up puts you in the game.
Face-to-Face Meetings Still Win
Even in today’s world of Zoom calls and broadband internet, nothing replaces an in-person meeting. If you can, fly out to one of the major cities — LA, New York, Atlanta, Chicago — and take meetings. Face-to-face conversations are powerful. They stick with people.
Nobody cares where you live if the meeting is about something real. It’s about the work and the opportunity, not your zip code.
Of course, if flying out isn't possible, Zoom is a solid backup. You can build strong connections virtually too — but whenever you can meet in person, go for it.
The Bottom Line: Show Up Where It Counts
So if you're serious about building a film career without living in LA or NYC, here’s the formula:
- Shoot great projects where you are.
- Attend major film markets and festivals.
- Take meetings in person when you can.
- Use Zoom to stay connected when you can't travel.
It's about showing up — in the right places, with the right mindset. You don't have to move to a big city to make it. You just have to put yourself in the rooms (or on the calls) where the business is happening.
