"And...action!" has been heard frequently lately throughout the Livermore Valley.
Those words are a clear sign that film producers find that Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin and areas around the county are desirable places to work.
Jeanie Haigh, assistant director of the Livermore Valley Film Commission, loves to hear those words, too.
"We're really getting on the map as the place to film your commercial, feature film, catalog shoots — whatever you need to do," says Haigh.
During the last couple of months, the area has played host to feature films, short independent films, commercials and still shoots.
Citi credit card is promoting its "Thank You Points" program with a commercial filmed on a local ranch that I've seen on TV recently.
Remember that Comcast commercial showing real employees talking about customer service? Yep, they filmed it in and around Livermore.
Fruit of the Loom filmed an ad campaign in Livermore at a private home and on city streets. We'll be sure to share the link once it becomes public — it promises to be a funny commercial (but I've been sworn to secrecy)! How could it not be with grapes, an apple and leaves riding horses down the street in Livermore?
Watch the two attached commercials for Purple VRS for Android, and I'll bet you'll recognize one of our downtown restaurants and a nearby street.
These are just a few of the projects that have filmed in the last couple of months. Porsche shot a still photo campaign, Cisco Systems filmed a commercial, and many more have used locations in the valley for their projects.
And who hasn't heard that Nicole Kidman, Clive Owen and Tony Shaloub were filming "Hemingway and Gellhorn," an HBO feature film? See the attached teaser.
Two independent films are set to film in all three cities this month. The filmmakers live in the valley and are excited to bring their cinematic visions to life using locations close to home.
The Livermore Valley Film Commission makes it possible
Why so much action here? Production companies know they can get a fast response to their inquiries from the Livermore Valley Film Commission, part of the . Haigh is hands-on and with the project every step of the way, making sure that not only are the production folks are happy, but location owners have what they need.
Cooperation from government officials in all three cities and the county realize the value of having film production — more money being spent locally. City and county officials are eager to assist with the needs of each production, whether it is a simple permit or on-location assistance with police or fire. Filming provides an economic boost for the entire region and you may even get a little excitement added to your day with a famous sighting.
For more information on the Livermore Valley Film Commission, please contact Jeanie Haigh at the Livermore Valley Chamber of Commerce or call 925-447-1606.
