Lights, camera, Lexington. City officials including Mayor Linda Gorton announced a new initiative called Film Lexington (aka FilmLEX) — an effort launched by VisitLEX to nurture the film + entertainment industries in the city.

The big-screen initiative

FilmLEX aims to be a one-stop-shop for projects to get the resources they need. The hub serves as a database to help companies employ crew workers or vendors and find local filming permits. It even has recommendations for great local filming spots based on genre — whether it's a drama, horror film, or a holiday romance.

A major component of FilmLEX is taking advantage of the Kentucky Entertainment Incentive (KEI) Program, a fund that offers $75 million annually to support filming in the Bluegrass State. Qualifying productions can receive a tax credit up to 35% with additional benefits for hiring local talent. So far in 2024, 17 projects have benefited from KEI in Fayette County.

Actors Steve Zahn and Rick Gomez embrace local culture while filming. | Photo via VisitLEX

The local star

Now that the new effort has been put into production, FilmLEX hopes to bring more projects to the Lexington area, specifically productions valued at $1 million-$10 million. Likely, this would encourage more TV shows and small-budget films (think Hallmark, not Marvel). This has potential to bolster the local economy by supporting local industries in the hospitality, labor, and service sectors.

It's not just about the money, FilmLEX is also about showing the world and entertainment industry what Lexington has to offer, like the new LEX Studios. Mayor Gorton hopes that will encourage people from across the globe to visit the city.