Mississippi has once again taken center stage for a Hollywood production, with filmmakers choosing the Magnolia State as the backdrop for the action-filled sequel As Good as Dead 2. The movie, starring Michael Jai White and Tom Berenger, showcases Mississippi’s growing appeal as a filming destination.

Lights, camera, Mississippi

The bustling town of Canton, Mississippi, recently turned into a Hollywood film set as crews captured scenes for the highly anticipated sequel. According to the report, some final scenes of As Good as Dead 2 were shot at the Madison County Circuit Courthouse. The production has been abuzz with activities as the cast and crew eye the finish line on this Samuel Goldwyn Films project.

Michael Jai White reprises his role in the sequel, which is set against the backdrop of suspense and adrenaline-pumping action. Tom Berenger, known for his iconic roles in films like Platoon, plays a significantly larger role in this installment compared to his minor appearance in the first film. Filming wrapped up last Thursday afternoon, with key sequences shot locally, highlighting Mississippi’s picturesque settings.

Local community benefits from Hollywood spotlight

The arrival of a high-profile production such as As Good as Dead 2 has brought excitement and economic opportunity to Mississippi. Producer Brandon Minchin spoke about the various benefits the film has generated for the state. He emphasized that such productions not only take advantage of the state’s favorable tax incentives but also bring direct benefits to local communities.

“We’re using local caterers, local police, and all the resources that have been offered. And it’s great to help pour money back into the local community,” Minchin explained. The financial impact doesn’t just end with the film's crew spending at local businesses; it also helps build local infrastructure, making Mississippi even more attractive for future productions.

Growing demands on Mississippi's film industry

John Reed, the locations manager for Mississippi Films, highlighted the increasing demand for crew members as more productions come to the state. Over the past 14 months, Reed has been involved in seven different film projects across Mississippi. However, challenges persist, particularly in recruiting enough local crew members to meet Hollywood’s growing demands.

“One of the biggest problems we face in Mississippi is the lack of crew to handle all the movies coming here. We often have to bring in crew members from other states, mainly Louisiana and Georgia,” noted Reed. Despite these challenges, the influx of projects highlights the state’s burgeoning reputation as a film-friendly destination.

Mississippi: a rising hub for film production

Mississippi has increasingly become an attractive location for filmmakers thanks to its generous tax credits, diverse scenery, and welcoming communities. The success of As Good as Dead 2 will likely add more fuel to this growing trend.

As more Hollywood productions see Mississippi as fertile ground for their projects, the state faces the challenge of building a strong local film production workforce. Efforts to train and retain skilled film crews will be critical to sustaining and growing this industry in the state.

Conclusion

As Good as Dead 2 has brought Hollywood excitement to Mississippi, shining a spotlight on the state’s economic potential and scenic beauty. Featuring notable stars like Michael Jai White and Tom Berenger, the action-packed sequel underscores the Magnolia State's ability to host projects of this caliber. For the local communities and the film industry, it’s a win-win situation that paves the way for more opportunities in the future.