Today is June 27, 2026, and there’s a buzz in the air here in Micanopy, Florida. Just the other day, Aurora Williams was seen carrying the adorable three-month-old Henry Kickliter to a van, while filmmaker Todd Wiseman Jr. and his crew wrapped up their filming for the upcoming TV series “A Land Remembered.” They were on location in this charming little town on May 20, 2026, capturing the essence of the story based on the novel of the same name. The series dives into the life of the MacIvey family and their struggles on the Florida Cracker frontier, bringing a slice of history to life.
Micanopy’s streets transformed into a cinematic set, thanks to the film crew’s efforts. They brought in red clay and revamped storefronts with historical signage to recreate a town in southern Georgia from the 1860s. It’s fascinating how filmmaking can breathe life into the past, isn’t it? The filming in Micanopy has just concluded, and folks are eagerly awaiting the series, which is set to stream next year. It’s like waiting for the next big thing in a small town where everyone knows each other!
Florida’s Thriving Film Scene
Speaking of big things, Florida’s film industry is quite the heavyweight in the U.S. Did you know that in 2006, it ranked third in film production revenue, just behind California and New York? Though by 2009-2010, it slipped from the top four, the state remains a vibrant hub for film productions. Much of the action is centered in South Florida and Central Florida—think Orlando and Tampa—where iconic projects like Jerry Bruckheimer’s “Bad Boys” series and “2 Fast 2 Furious” were born.
In fact, Central Florida has seen its fair share of cinematic gems, including “The Punisher” and “The Waterboy.” The history of filmmaking here is rich and varied, with classics like “Moon Over Miami” (1941) and “Easy to Love” (1953) paving the way. The early ’90s brought a boom to Orlando, earning it the nickname “Hollywood East.” Remember films like “Parenthood” or the TV show “The Adventures of Superboy”? Yep, all part of that exciting era when Disney-MGM Studios and Universal Studios were thriving.
Filming and Festivals
Interestingly, Florida is home to various film festivals and has several film commissions, including the Sarasota County Film and Entertainment Office and the Metro Orlando Film Office, to name a few. These organizations help promote and support the film industry, making it easier for filmmakers to bring their visions to life. With over 10 state-of-the-art sound stages in Metro Orlando, it’s become a significant production facility center outside of Los Angeles and New York. How cool is that?
As we look forward to the release of “A Land Remembered,” it’s exciting to see how Micanopy has played a role in this larger narrative of Florida’s film history. Every film set, every story told, adds another layer to the rich tapestry of this state’s cinema. Who knows what magical moments await us on screen next year?