Cincinnati’s Cinematic Moment
Cincinnati is no stranger to the spotlight, but September 15–18, 2025, will mark a turning point in how the world sees this city. For the first time in its 50-year history, the Association of Film Commissioners International’s (AFCI) Cineposium will not only be held in Greater Cincinnati–Northern Kentucky, but it will be open to the public, transforming a traditionally exclusive global film conference into a community-wide cultural celebration.
Organized in partnership with Film Cincinnati, meetNKY, and hosted at Hotel Covington and other venues, this year’s Cineposium represents more than a professional gathering—it’s a statement. Cincinnati is staking its claim as a major player in the international film industry, building on years of production growth and creative investment.
A Historic First in a Half-Century Legacy
Cineposium’s decision to go public in its golden anniversary year is no small gesture. Traditionally a networking and professional development event for film commissioners, studios, and government agencies, the 2025 edition invites students, aspiring filmmakers, local entrepreneurs, and film lovers to learn, connect, and dream alongside over 130 global industry leaders. It’s a symbolic opening of doors—literally and figuratively—into the mechanics of movie-making at the highest level.
The Clooney Connection
The conference kicks off September 15 with Film Cincinnati’s Gala at the MegaCorp Pavilion in Newport, KY, featuring “A Conversation with George Clooney.” A Kentucky native with an enduring connection to the region, Clooney brings both star power and authenticity to the event. Expect stories from his decades in the industry, insights into the art of storytelling, and reflections on the importance of regional film hubs.
Why Cincinnati Works for Cineposium
The choice of Cincinnati–Northern Kentucky is both strategic and symbolic. The city’s film-friendly architecture ranges from 19th-century Over-the-Rhine streetscapes to sleek contemporary skylines, giving productions a wide range of backdrops. State and local incentives, combined with a reputation for efficient permitting and local support, make the region attractive for filmmakers on a budget and major studios alike.
Kristen Schlotman, President & CEO of Film Cincinnati, calls the event a “game-changer” for the region’s creative economy. “Hosting the 50th anniversary of Cineposium right here will spotlight everything we’ve built—and everything we’re ready to do next,” she said in earlier remarks.
Culture, Community, and Creative Energy
Cincinnati’s culture is rooted in the arts—from the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Music Hall to a thriving indie music and theater scene. The city’s warmth and Midwestern hospitality make it an ideal setting for a global conference aiming to foster connections. Opening Cineposium to the public embodies the city’s creative style: inclusive, accessible, and forward-looking.
Attendees won’t just talk film—they’ll experience Cincinnati in full. Between sessions, visitors can explore ArtWorks murals, sample local craft beer, indulge in a cone of Graeter’s, or take in a Reds game at Great American Ball Park.
Beyond the Conference: Long-Term Impact
The ripple effects of Cineposium will extend far beyond its four days. For local filmmakers, students, and small businesses, it’s an opportunity to meet decision-makers who can greenlight projects, form collaborations, and invest in the region’s creative infrastructure. For the city’s hospitality and tourism industries, it’s a high-profile showcase to a global audience.
As Cincinnati positions itself as both a cultural destination and a production powerhouse, Cineposium 2025 could be remembered not just as a milestone, but as the moment the Queen City stepped fully onto the global film stage.