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A stunt person plays Spider-Man during filming of 'Spider-Man 3' in Cleveland
'Spider-Man 3' filming in Cleveland in 2008

On Jan. 23, 2009, Midwest Movie Maker will turn 15 years old. That's shocking to me.

I was inspired to launch the blog after watching a film crew shoot Spider-Man 3 on the corner of E. 9th and Euclid Ave. in Cleveland in 2008. Apple's introduction of the iPhone was barely a year old, but I was happy to have my corporate-issued BlackBerry with me.

I was enthralled. Watching the second-unit film crew brought back memories of chasing my own filmmaking career in the mid-1990s. Fresh out of college and fresh off an internship with Haft/Nasatir Productions on the 20th Century Fox lot in L. eff'ing A., I scrambled to find enough freelance work as a production assistant in Northeast Ohio to pay the bills. Some people were managing it. But not many. 

I did secure a P.A. role on Double Dragon: The Movie. Working on the set of a moderately budgeted film was an experience unlike any other, and, quite honestly, I wanted to experience that feeling again - and again and again.

Fast forward to that fateful day when Spidey was surfing down Euclid in 2008. I realized then I could leverage my experience as a journalist and content marketer (before content marketing was a thing) to write about movies and the women and men making them in Ohio and around the Midwest. My goal? Get invited to film sets to write stories. Be there. Be in it.

Nearly 15 years later? Still giving it a go

Three people working with film camera equipment on the set of 'Sirens'
Setting up a shot on filmmaker Thomas Sawyer's 'Sirens'

Giving voice to our vibrant and diverse community

Today, however, Midwest Movie Maker is dedicated to giving voice to our vibrant and diverse community of filmmakers. We shine a light on the incredible stories, creativity, and talent from our own backyard.

From household names like Cleveland's Russo Brothers to emerging talents and aspiring moviemakers, I want to introduce them to you - to shine a spotlight on their achievements, journeys, and contributions to the world of cinema.

As I grow the site, I hope to help filmmakers link up with essential vendors, companies, and organizations that can support their projects - and to nurture a sense of community among filmmakers themselves. Collaboration and mutual support are essential ingredients for success in the ever-evolving world of cinema.

So whether you're a seasoned filmmaker with a trail of credits or an aspiring creator with a burning desire to make your mark, Midwest Movie Maker is here for you. Join us in celebrating the Midwest's rich cinematic landscape and in forging connections that can help you turn your visions into reality.

Thank you for being a part of our journey.

Warm regards,

Tom

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