Movie filmed in Hamilton generating Oscar buzz

Academy Award winning actress Cate Blanchett filmed a scene in the movie “Carol” in Hamilton in 2014.

Academy Award winning actress Cate Blanchett filmed a scene in the movie “Carol” in Hamilton in 2014.

Last year, the movie “Carol” took downtown Hamilton back in time to the 1950s. Next year, it may take Hamilton to the Oscars.

The movie has screened at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, where it has earned high praise from numerous critics, with some saying the performances by Cate Blanchett and co-star Rooney Mara merit Oscar nominations. Mara filmed scenes with Blanchett in April 2014 at Kostas Restaurant, located at 221 Court St.

Young Kim, the owner of Kostas, said she is “excited” the movie is still generating excitement a year after it was shot at her restaurant.

“What can I say? It’s really impressive. I hope it wins something,” Kim said, referring to the Oscars.

While Hamilton is not specifically mentioned in any reviews, Hollywood Reporter critic Todd McCarthy wrote, “Dressed up Cincinnati locations double reasonably, if not entirely satisfactorily, for New York City.”

“Carol” received $2.9 million in Ohio Film Tax Credits for shooting scenes in Hamilton, Lebanon and Cincinnati. The film is expected to go into limited release Dec. 18.

Hamilton has since attracted another film, "The Long Home," starring James Franco, Courtney Love and Josh Hutcherson. Filming has been taking place in the city and throughout the area this month.

Steve Colwell, a production executive for Film Hamilton who wasn’t involved with “Carol,” said the movie’s positive buzz bodes well for more movies to be shot locally.

“Any press is good press as far as filming goes. If a movie shot here is getting Oscar buzz, it’s good for everybody,” he said.

“The Long Home” has been offered up to $288,355 in Ohio Film Tax Credits, according to Katie Sabatino, spokeswoman for Tourism Ohio. The actual amount received in the final tax credit certificate may vary depending on the audit of their expenses.

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