Atlanta Indie Studio Stages ‘The Places We Go’ – A Glimpse into the Future of Local Production

Atlanta, GA – October 26, 2024 – As Atlanta continues to solidify its position as a global filmmaking hub, a new player is emerging from the independent scene, aiming to blend local talent with compelling genre storytelling. Meadowbrooke Media, a relatively new production company, is hosting a public table read of their upcoming pilot, ‘The Places We Go’, on November 15th, offering a unique glimpse into the future of independent production in the city.

While major studios dominate much of the filming activity in Georgia, Meadowbrooke Media’s approach highlights a growing trend: locally-focused, independent projects leveraging the city’s skilled workforce and diverse locations. The company isn’t simply seeking to capitalize on Atlanta's boom, they’re actively cultivating it from within.

A Rising Tide of Independent Production

Atlanta has long been a magnet for large-scale productions thanks to generous tax incentives and sprawling soundstages. But the city's ecosystem is increasingly fostering a robust independent film and television community. This has been particularly evident in recent years, with a surge in locally-produced web series, short films, and now, pilots aiming for wider distribution.

“We’re seeing a real democratization of content creation,” explains a local film industry consultant, speaking on the condition of anonymity. “The barriers to entry are lower than ever, and Atlanta is providing the perfect environment for creatives to thrive.”

Meadowbrooke Media is capitalizing on this momentum, consciously building a team of established Atlanta-based actors, including several veterans of popular shows filmed in the state like The Walking Dead and The Terminal List. The cast for ‘The Places We Go’ features familiar faces like Miles Mussenden, Roger Payano, and Alexis Louder – actors with significant on-screen experience and a loyal following.

Genre-Bending Storytelling & Audience Engagement

‘The Places We Go’ itself promises a blend of adventure, mystery, and supernatural elements, a combination that has proven successful on streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime Video. The story centers around a group of travelers uncovering a series of strange occurrences on a cross-country road trip, hinting at a larger, supernatural conspiracy.

This genre-bending approach aligns with current audience preferences, which increasingly favor shows that defy easy categorization. “Viewers are looking for something fresh and unexpected,” notes an entertainment analyst. “Shows that can seamlessly blend genres and offer a unique narrative experience are more likely to stand out.”

But Meadowbrooke Media isn’t just relying on a compelling storyline to attract attention. The company is employing a unique strategy by hosting a public table read of the pilot episode. This event, taking place at Atlanta’s Plaza Theatre, allows potential audience members to experience the story firsthand and engage directly with the creators.

“It’s a really smart way to build anticipation and create a sense of community,” explains a local film enthusiast who plans to attend the event. “It’s not just about passively consuming content; it’s about being part of the creative process.”

The public table read also provides valuable feedback for the production team. Hearing the dialogue read aloud, and observing audience reactions, allows them to refine the script and ensure that the story resonates with potential viewers.

A New Model for Independent Production?

While hosting a public table read isn't entirely novel, Meadowbrooke Media’s approach represents a departure from traditional pilot development strategies. Instead of relying solely on industry pitches and network meetings, the company is prioritizing direct engagement with its target audience.

“It’s a really interesting experiment,” says a production executive familiar with the independent film landscape. “It’s a way to bypass the gatekeepers and connect directly with viewers. If it’s successful, it could pave the way for a new model of independent production.”

Moreover, the company’s commitment to local talent and resources underscores a growing trend towards sustainable filmmaking. By prioritizing Atlanta-based actors, crew, and locations, Meadowbrooke Media is contributing to the city’s economic vitality and fostering a more inclusive entertainment industry.

“We’re seeing a shift towards more conscious and responsible filmmaking,” says a representative from the Atlanta Film Society. “Companies are realizing that it’s not just about making a profit; it’s about creating a positive impact on the community.”

Looking Ahead

While the future of ‘The Places We Go’ remains uncertain, Meadowbrooke Media’s ambitious project signals a promising shift in the Atlanta film landscape. By prioritizing local talent, embracing innovative storytelling, and engaging directly with its audience, the company is demonstrating that independent production can thrive even in the shadow of Hollywood giants.

The November 15th table read at the Plaza Theatre is more than just a preview of an upcoming pilot; it’s a glimpse into the future of Atlanta’s burgeoning independent film community – a community that is poised to make a significant impact on the global entertainment industry.