“Even though we may not have all the money Georgia has, we’re still working to have good, solid, additional crew people here and make sure there are people in training.”

Jeral’s goal is to train everyday people how to get their break into the film industry by teaching editing workshops. These workshops have resulted in past attendees getting their first projects, which he then guides them through.

Production company Argentum Entertainment moved from Los Angeles to metro Atlanta this year, and now it is starting a film fund modeled after those used by major Hollywood studios.

Meanwhile, film crews and their stars fill hotel rooms, eat in restaurants and they keep other local businesses humming during their visits.

While filming in Rome, GA, the movie “Meagan Leavey” gave a local family-owned restaurant, the Shrimp Boat, an economic boost.