RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia’s success as a location for film production continues with a Showtime series starring Ethan Hawke as abolitionist John Brown. “The Good Lord Bird” will start shooting this summer. 

The state film office director and even the governor say the boom in the motion picture industry doesn’t seem to be showing any sign of slowing in Virginia. Attracting big-name production companies means an economic boost in local communities throughout the Commonwealth. 

“It’s a testament to the fact that Virginia is for film lovers,” the Virginia Film Office Director Andy Edmunds told 8News. 

Locals should be on the lookout this summer for production crews to take over Central Virginia. Members from the Showtime network plan to film an eight-part limited series called “The Good Lord Bird.” The series is based on a book and will feature actor Ethan Hawke. 

“We will touch all parts of the Commonwealth,” Edmunds said, “we’ll be bringing in talent all around the state and resources as well.”

AMC also plans to film in Virginia. Producers of “The Walking Dead” will film the debut season of its spin-off in Virginia. Edmunds told 8News that cities offer astounding views for filmmakers. 

“Most films that come here actually shoot Virginia in some other location because we really are a chameleon state and this is what makes it so attractive to filmmakers,” he said. 

The movie industry invites a boost in economic opportunities. 

“They really do touch all parts of the economy,” Edmunds said, “and employs people at all levels with highly skilled jobs. At the end of the day, it’s like content manufacturing, is what they do.” 

One local who spoke with 8News said they are excited to hear about the news. 

“I feel like this will really shine light on the city,” Pehledee Mulbah, a Richmond resident, said, “and kind of bring that to light because it is a dope small area to be in.” 

8News was told that “The Good Lord Bird” will be filmed in Cumberland, Charles City and Petersburg. 

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