Exciting Updates from the Ozarks Film FoundrY
- Tom Baker
- Aug 28
- 2 min read
Hello Filmmaker Friends!
I’m excited to share a quick update on some of the great things happening here at The Ozarks Film Foundry. Over the last few weeks, I’ve stepped in to help with social media and outreach, and in the spirit of transparency, we want to keep you in the loop on how the Foundry is growing and serving filmmakers in southwest Missouri.
The Big News: A Film Office for Southwest Missouri
One of the most important developments is the launch of the Southwest Missouri Film Office, which is now officially recognized by the Southwest Missouri Council of Governments (SMCOG).
Why does this matter? By becoming formally organized and recognized by SMCOG, our region now has the ability to attract more productions to southwest Missouri. This is a huge step forward for the film industry here and for local filmmakers like you.
New Grants, New Gear
Thanks to a couple of grants this year, the Foundry has been investing directly into resources for filmmakers.
We recently purchased fully rigged Blackmagic Pocket 4K cameras, complete with cages, monitors, lenses, and V-mount batteries. These cameras are fantastic tools to elevate the production value of your next project.
To house all this new gear, we also added a dedicated equipment closet, generously built with donated time by Mark Long. The Foundry is currently finalizing rental pricing and insurance, so this equipment will soon be available to the filmmaking community.
Get those scripts ready—it’s almost time to roll camera!
A Facelift for the Foundry
Behind the scenes, we’ve been working hard to make the Foundry an even better creative space. Big thanks to Monty Dobson, who has been leading renovations—painting, building, and reimagining the space to inspire creativity.
Here’s what’s on the horizon:
A pre-production meeting room
A post-production suite
A podcast studio
And a screening/classroom theatre
Upstairs, we’re preparing the massive studio space for even more possibilities. Personally, I’ve filmed several projects there—including a season of SATO48: The TV Show—and it’s one of the most versatile spaces around. We’ll be announcing a volunteer clean-up day soon, and we’d love to have your help transforming it into a hub for future film projects.
Building Community: Social Mixers
Another way the Foundry is growing is through our popular social mixers. The next one is happening soon at the JOB, and we encourage everyone to come out.
Networking is the lifeblood of filmmaking. I’ve personally been cast, crewed up, and connected with collaborators through these mixers. If you’re new, don’t worry—I’ll be there to introduce you around. Remember, in film it’s not only what you know, but who you know.
Stay Connected
This is just the beginning. We’ll continue sharing updates to keep our community informed and inspired.
If you have a project you’d like to highlight—casting calls, crew opportunities, or something you need help getting off the ground—reach out! We’d love to share it with the community.
Thank you for being part of this growing creative community. Now get out there and make something—we can’t wait to see what you create!
— Tom Baker
Marketing & Engagement Manager
Ozarks Film Foundry