RANTOUL, Ill. — On a vibrant Wednesday, the Governor of Illinois made a noteworthy visit to Rantoul, shining a spotlight on the flourishing film industry in the region.

Governor JB Pritzker, alongside the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and various local dignitaries, gathered at Flyover Film Studios. The occasion was a celebration of the burgeoning film production sector in Central Illinois, highlighting its pivotal role in the local economy.

In 2025, film productions were a significant economic driver, generating $12.3 million in statewide business sales. This influx of capital was attributed to extensive spending across multiple sectors, including hotels, catering, transportation, rental housing, equipment vendors, and post-production services. The result was a notable boost to Illinois’ gross domestic product by nearly $8 million, alongside $1.61 million in wages for Illinois households.