Ohio’s Film Industry Shines, and So Do the Leaders Behind It
Cincinnati has long been a city filled with history, culture, and innovation. From its architectural gems to its sports legacy, there’s always something happening in the Queen City. But one area that often flies under the radar is its growing impact in the film industry, along with the incredible local leaders, mentors, and philanthropists making that happen. The latest edition of Ohio Goes to the Movies (OGTTM) highlights just how much Ohio—specifically Cincinnati—is contributing to film, and more importantly, the people behind it.
The Power of Storytelling in Cincinnati
Behind every great film is a team of people who believe in the power of storytelling. The same is true for the Ohio film industry, where organizations like FilmToledo and film festivals across the state help elevate Ohio’s presence in entertainment. But beyond the cameras and scripts, what truly makes this industry thrive are the individuals leading the charge. These are the mentors who guide young creatives, the executives who bring film productions to the region, and the visionaries who recognize that film is more than just entertainment—it’s an economic driver and a cultural force.
Take Brittany Shyne, for example, a Dayton-based filmmaker whose documentary Seeds won the U.S. Grand Jury Prize at Sundance. Her work shines a light on Black generational farmers in the American South, a subject rarely explored in mainstream media. Her impact extends far beyond her own success—it’s about representation, education, and using film as a vehicle for change.
Spotlighting Cincinnati’s Impact
Ohio has been home to many influential figures in entertainment, and their achievements continue to inspire. One such leader is Paul Tazewell, an Akron native and renowned costume designer, who made history as the first Black man to win an Oscar for Best Costume Design. His story, featured in OGTTM, is a testament to perseverance and breaking barriers in an industry that has long lacked diversity behind the scenes. His achievement isn’t just about an award—it’s about inspiring the next generation of creatives in Ohio who might not have previously seen themselves in the world of film and design.
Cincinnati is filled with people who are pushing for more opportunities in the arts, mentoring young filmmakers, and investing in the infrastructure to make the region a film-friendly destination. The influence of industry leaders, festival organizers, and educators is what makes Cincinnati’s creative scene flourish. They are the people behind the scenes ensuring that future generations have access to film education, networking opportunities, and the ability to tell their own stories.
Ohio’s Cinematic Influence: Honoring the Legends
Beyond individual achievements, Ohio Goes to the Movies also highlights how Ohio continues to make a lasting impact on the film industry. The latest edition of the magazine includes:
The 2025 Great Ohioans: Dorothy Dandridge, Clark Gable, and Paul Newman were recognized for their immense contributions to film and culture.
Ohio Film Festivals: A complete guide to upcoming film festivals across the state, from Cleveland to Cincinnati, showcasing the best in independent, horror, documentary, and short films.
Sci-Fi Exhibit at the Medici Museum: A spotlight on John Zabrucky, an Ohio native whose futuristic designs have been featured in Star Trek, Ghostbusters, Blade Runner, and more.
Made in Ohio: FilmToledo: A deep dive into how Toledo is becoming a hub for film production, with major productions like A Man Called Otto and Eenie Meanie choosing Ohio as their backdrop.
For those interested in learning more about Ohio’s ongoing influence in the film industry, the full OGTTM magazine can be viewed online: Ohio Goes to the Movies - Honoring Legends.
The Intersection of Film and Community Impact
The power of film isn’t just about the stories we see on screen—it’s about the impact it has in real life. When movies like A Man Called Otto choose Cincinnati and Toledo as filming locations, it creates jobs, stimulates local businesses, and puts Ohio on the map as a serious player in the film world. But that doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because of people like Michael DeSanto of FilmToledo, who works tirelessly to bring productions to the region, or the leaders behind the Cleveland International Film Festival, who provide platforms for filmmakers to showcase their work.
The individuals shaping Ohio’s film scene aren’t just focused on the present—they’re building the future. By supporting film initiatives, mentoring young creatives, and investing in the industry, they are ensuring that Ohio remains a destination for storytelling, innovation, and artistic excellence.
So, as we celebrate the latest successes in Ohio’s film scene, let’s not forget to celebrate the people who make it possible. They are the real stars, both behind the camera and behind the scenes, shaping the city’s cultural future one story at a time.