Celebrating the Best Locations in Film and Television at the 12th Annual LMGI Awards
The Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) hosted its 12th Annual Awards ceremony, celebrating the art and craft of location management in filmmaking. This esteemed event took place at the Eli and Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica, gathering around 400 industry professionals and guests. The ceremonies highlighted the critical role that location managers play in storytelling through film and television.
Among the notable winners for Motion Picture categories were
"A Complete Unknown," which showcased the stunning landscapes of New Jersey, and
"Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning," featuring breathtaking locales from England to Malta. These films exemplified the creative vision and intricate planning that location managers employ to elevate narratives and enhance visual storytelling. Awards were also given to several television series, with highlights including
"The Studio," "1923," and
"The Penguin," each recognized for their exceptional use of unique filming locations.
The evening included the presentation of special honors to two industry titans.
Kevin Costner, a two-time Academy Award winner, received the
Eva Monley Award for his commitment to incorporating real locations into his storytelling, evidenced by his roles in films such as
"Dances with Wolves" and
"Field of Dreams." Alongside him,
Ilt Jones, a seasoned location manager with over 30 years of experience, was awarded the
Lifetime Achievement Award. Jones's groundbreaking work includes iconic films such as
"Inception" and
"Black Panther: Wakanda Forever." His expertise has enhanced the depiction of fantastical worlds by grounding them in real, relatable settings.
The reception also recognized
Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles with the
LMGI Humanitarian Award, honoring their dedication to making wishes come true for children with critical illnesses. The organization's mission aligns seamlessly with Hollywood's tradition of storytelling and fostering hope, making it a deserving recipient of the accolade.
The awards ceremony featured a lively atmosphere, with actress and producer
Rachael Harris acting as the host. In her welcoming remarks, she touched upon the profound impact that carefully chosen locations have on the storytelling process, linking the emotional and visual elements of a film or series to the environments in which they are set.
Overview of Key Winners
- - Outstanding Locations in a Feature Film: "A Complete Unknown"
- - Outstanding Locations in a Contemporary Feature Film: "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning"
- - Outstanding Locations in a Period Television Series: "1923" (Season 2)
- - Outstanding Locations in a Contemporary Television Series: "The Studio"
- - Outstanding Film Commission: New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission
- - Outstanding Commercial: Orient Express Artisan of Travel (Belmond)
The inclusion of these awards underscores the importance of collaboration between location managers, production teams, and local film commissions, which are vital in bringing stories to life through carefully curated backdrops that resonate with audiences.
In conclusion, this year's LMGI Awards not only celebrated the successes of standout films and series, but also served as a reminder of the power of location in shaping the narratives we cherish. As the LMGI continues to champion the profession, it reflects an ever-growing acknowledgment of the art that crafting the perfect setting entails, ultimately enriching the cinematic experience for audiences around the globe.