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2009 Tupelo Film Fest Click for more info!

ABOUT THE REELY Designed by Tupelo Artist, Richard McGehee, the Reely captures the ideas and creativity that take the journey on film as it spirals and winds itself around the reel to exhibit a story for all to enjoy.

About the Commission

The Tupelo Film Commission which was established in 1989 is experienced with over 14 years in working with filmmakers. The Commission falls under the umbrella of the Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau, is a member of AFCI and works closely with the MS State Film Office. The purpose of the Commission is to attract filmmakers to our City providing locations for films, commercials, documentaries and television productions. The goal of the Tupelo Film Commission is to make sure that projects are carried through in a cost-efficient, timely and professional manner. It is a known fact that the hospitality Tupelo offers makes our City a desirable location to film in. Tupelo hosted films "Tomorrow" in 1968 and "Heart of Dixie" in 1989 and has worked with many documentaries and commercials.

Following are quotes from those who have filmed in Tupelo.

Mal Pope with TV Programmer BBC "Working with Pat was magnificent. Nothing was too much trouble and the hospitality made filming in Tupelo a joy. What a great part of the world".

Eric Shaffer, Enoch Productions, "In preparation of our commercial I came upon one of the most positive, resourceful, "can do" film commissioners I have ever worked with in my 22 year career. Her attitude, understanding of our business and ability to work as a liaison between community and film crew enabled us to have a successful production".

Patrick Fries, Arrowhead Productions, "People who make independent films are dreamers and entrepreneurs. We look for places to film that have the same spirit as we do. When we descended our helicopters and camera crews into Tupelo we were welcomed with open arms, which made our filming experience wonderful".

How to Film in Tupelo

The Tupelo Film Commission is always ready to serve filmmakers and respond to their requests by making available the resources required for their projects. The Commission serves as a liaison working closely with federal, state and local officials as well as corporations, private businesses and individuals, ensuring a successful shoot. It is imperative that the Commission always be time-flexible and knowledgeable of their area in order to provide a memorable and hassle-free experience for the filmmaker. The Tupelo Film Commission is supported by a team of professionals eager to serve and meet production requests.

Scouting
The Tupelo Film Commission will research and provide, upon request, photos and/or diskettes to accommodate specific location requests and clearances.

Equipment
There is some available film equipment in our City, however, if the equipment request of the filmmaker cannot be met locally, a diligent effort will be made to locate and secure the equipment required to support the filmmakers request.

Pre-Production
The Tupelo Film Commission will provide information on production services, talent, caterers, transportation, hotels, equipment, support services and film regulations.

Incentives and Benefits

• A permit is not required to film in Tupelo or the state of Mississippi.
• Free shuttle bus transportation (if not already in use)
• Tupelo goodie bags provided
• Liaison and organizational support
• Small town atmosphere with big city opportunities
• Diverse terrain
• The greatest hospitality you will find

Support Services
The Tupelo Film Commission is fortunate to work with area professionals that understand the film industry and the needs of filmmakers. With the establishment of the film commission, there were many involved and instrumental in seeing the commission become a reality. The Tupelo Film Commission is very eager to support those seeking a location for their next project and looks forward to making Tupelo the most hospitable City they have ever filmed in.

PAT RASBERRY - TUPELO FILM COMMISSIONER - 662-841-6599/800-533-0611 (prasberry@tupelo.net) Pat has served 18 years with the Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau sharing titles of Assistant Director and 6 of those years as Film Commissioner. For 11 years she assisted with film projects as a production assistant and location scout. Contact Pat with your film project requests.

Austin Haley - "Little Bo Productions" - Austin is owner of Little Bo Productions in Tupelo and experienced as a producer, cameraman and director. He also has a background in acting of 10 years.

Jerry Johnson - "Jerry Johnson Productions" Jerry has 12 years experience as a writer, producer and director.

Bob Kenney - Bob has served as a location scout for 8 years and production assistant for 10 years.

Darrell Marecle - Darrell has 25 years shooting experience. He is also experienced in non-linear editing and has 10 years experience in directing documentaries, short films, commercials, and instructional video. In addition he has assisted as a location scout and production assistant and has served as an instructor at the University of MS Filmmakers Workshop.

Chuck McIntosh - Chuck has 25 years experience as a cameraman, 20 years as director, single camera, multi-camera and on-camera experience. He also has experience in story boarding and location scouting.

Jim Palmer - In the early stages of the Tupelo Film Commission Jim served 5 years as the Commissioner. He also has 8 years experience as a location scout and production assistant and 3 years experience as assistant director of documentaries and commercials.

Roy Turner - Roy has 15 years experience in location scouting and logistics and 14 years documentary experience.

Peggy Webb - Peggy has 20 years experience as a professional writer (novels and screenwriting) with a novel that was optioned as a film.

Services:

Upon request, the Tupelo Film Commission will make available a detailed list of services that will assist and support filmmakers with specific needs about our City. Please contact Pat Rasberry at 662-841-6599 or email prasberry@tupelo.net. For information on the state go to www.visitmississippi.org/film

The Tupelo Film Commission prides itself with a variety of interesting and unique locations for filming. When shooting your next location do not miss the opportunity to take advantage of visiting Tupelo. We just might be what you were looking for! Please refer to the images at the top of this page for a glimpse at our wonderful city.