WHERE YOUR VISION
COMES TO LIFE

MISSION

WHAT WE DO

Film Tampa Bay operates on behalf of Hillsborough County, City of Tampa, City of Plant City and City of Temple Terrace. We offer invaluable services that only a knowledgeable, passionate, “hands-on” film commission can provide. Along with the proximity and distinctiveness of our available locations, Film Tampa Bay provides local guidance, creative ideas and the experience to anticipate needs unique to the production industry, including help acquiring local crew and equipment, resolution of parking issues, neighborhood canvasing and assistance with local, regional and national talent. It’s why production companies continue to choose Tampa Bay.

WHO IS FILM TAMPA BAY

Tyler Martinolich

film commissioner

Who would direct the movie version of your life?

In my heart, John Ford would direct my life story, but in reality, it would likely be someone like Ed Wood.

What’s the earliest movie memory you have?

I vividly remember being taken to see Nightmare on Elm Street, best guess my parents thought I’d just fall asleep in the theater, I didn’t. Nightmares for months, the 80s were wild.

Go-to movie concession snack?

I have a sick appetite for stale movie theatre nachos. Trivia! In very small font on the side of the nacho cheese cup it says “only cheese when hot.” What is it when its not hot, who knows, movie theaters are magical!

Favorite movie filmed in Tampa?

I remember the excitement around the filming of the Punisher. The film doesn’t have a great reputation, but I think Thomas Jane is easily my favorite portrayal of Marvel’s less-than-heroic vigilante.

What’s the best filmmaking advice you’ve ever received?

Film should be looked at straight on, it is not the art of scholars but of illiterates.

Hilary Webber

Production manager

who would direct the movie version of your life?

If anyone could direct the film version of my life, I’d like to see it through the comedic, tender, and slightly rebellious lens of John Hughes.

What’s the earliest movie memory you have?

Dancing on the living room sofa to Ponchielli’s Dance of the Hours alongside the tutu-wearing hippos from Fantasia.

Go-to movie concession snack?

Cheerwine slushie.

Favorite movie filmed in Tampa?

When it comes to movies filmed in Tampa, it’s hard to beat the real-life intrigue of The Infiltrator.

What’s the best filmmaking advice you’ve ever received?

From documentary filmmaker Matthew Heineman, shared with him by his mentor Albert Maysles: “If you end up with the story you started with, you weren’t listening along the way.”

Sam Allen

marketing MANAGER

who would direct the movie version of your life?

My life story would be directed by David Lynch and produced by Mark Cherry (the creator of Desperate Housewives).

What’s the earliest movie memory you have?

When I was a kid, I was obsessed with Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey. I watched it so many times that one day my VCR ate the tape! Later that same year, it ate my beloved Labyrinth, too.

Go-to movie concession snack?

Bunch-a-Crunch, coke…and the Publix sub hidden in my purse.

Favorite movie filmed in Tampa?

The Infiltrator! It was the first set I worked on.

What’s the best filmmaking advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t talk smack on set. The sound guy hears EVERYTHING.

Birdie Doyle

marketing coordinator

who would direct the movie version of your life?

Wes Anderson, but his OCD would definitely be triggered.

What’s the earliest movie memory you have?

Seeing “Ella Enchanted” was my first time at the movie theater!

Go-to movie concession snack?

Popcorn. Extra butter. Coke Icee.

Favorite movie filmed in Tampa?

The Lady of the Manor premiere was the first big event in the film industry that I was able to attend as a Film Commission intern. I'll always fondly remember the way the Long Brothers' praised Tampa; this event is still one of my favorite memories to date.