Production company plans film shoot in Downtown Newnan featuring Mark Wahlberg

During the Newnan City Council meeting on March 11, 2025, a significant proposal was presented by Any Means Production Company, seeking to film a new project titled "By Any Means" in downtown Newnan. The film, starring Mark Wahlberg, is set in the civil rights era of 1966 Mississippi, and the production team aims to utilize local sites to recreate this historical context.

Kyle Hinshaw, the location manager, and Jenny Ivers, the key assistant manager, outlined their plans for a 28-day shooting schedule, with four days dedicated to filming in Newnan. They emphasized that while the film will depict locations in Mississippi, the production will require specific period-appropriate settings, necessitating alterations to the environment, including vintage vehicles and signage.

The production team has allocated over $100,000 for site fees, community impact, and economic development, highlighting the potential financial benefits for the local economy. They plan to work closely with local law enforcement and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) to manage traffic and ensure safety during filming, particularly during peak hours.

The proposed filming schedule includes various locations in Newnan, with specific scenes requiring road closures and traffic control measures. For instance, filming on Spring Street and East Broad will necessitate intermittent traffic control to maintain safety and avoid modern vehicles appearing in the scenes. The production team assured the council that they would coordinate with local residents and businesses to minimize disruptions, including covering costs for residents who may need to relocate temporarily during filming.

The council members expressed concerns about the impact on local traffic and emergency services, particularly regarding school buses and peak traffic times. The production team responded that they would allow emergency vehicles through and would work to manage traffic flow effectively, even considering pausing filming if congestion became problematic.

In conclusion, the proposal from Any Means Production Company represents a unique opportunity for Newnan to showcase its historical charm while potentially boosting the local economy. The council's discussions highlighted the importance of balancing community needs with the logistical demands of film production, setting the stage for further negotiations and planning as the project moves forward.