The Red Stick is knocking on Hollywood’s door! On Friday, I walked into Celtic Media Centre on Airline Highway and onto the set of “The Ledge,” starring Liv Tyler, Patrick Wilson and Terrence Howard.  The massive film lights almost blinded me. The set had an intense stop-and-go atmosphere. During filming, everyone was still and quiet. Between scenes, stage crews worked together to position set pieces, scenery and technical equipment. The scenes I watched featured set replicas of old buildings on Third Street in downtown Baton Rouge.

When asked what attracts films to the city, Producer Charles Rapp replied, “It’s easy to film in Baton Rouge.” He added, “You guys are doing the right things.” Rapp emphasized that the city’s officials and the Baton Rouge Film Commission are very willing to work with film crews to ensure security and access to scenery and locations around the city.  He also spoke about the benefits films offer local businesses, hotels and employees. The set materials are purchased from local hardware stores and built by local contractors. Also, movies often use local caterers and makeup artists.

Celtic Media Centre is Louisiana’s first full-service, state-of-the-art studio film facility. The Celtic Media Centre currently boasts four soundstages ranging in size from 4,000 to 28,000 sq. ft. and built to meet the standards of the international motion picture production industry.