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Georgia seems to be taking over the film industry; Atlanta is now being referred to as ATLwood and productions are being filmed throughout the state. During the month of November, more than 35 productions were filmed in Georgia. One of those movies, “The Tiger Rising” is being filmed nearby in Thomasville and Tifton.  The movie is an adaptation of Kate DiCamillo’s 2001 New York Times Bestselling children’s book, “The Tiger Rising.” It will feature well-known celebrities including Queen Latifah.

Along with a star-studded cast, the movie production team features Bainbridge natives as well. Tonya Powell, Monica Johnson, Natalie Howard, and Stacey Ross, who are all Bainbridge High School graduates, have the opportunity to be crewmembers on this production. There responsibilities include educating and ensuring the safety of the minors who are apart of this production. 

Ross is working as one of the child labor coordinators. He said he makes sure the director and set are following the rules and regulations as outlined in the entertainment industry for children.

“I’m a direct representative for the actor,” Ross said. “I’m kind of like the security who protects the welfare of the children.”

Ross had never worked on the set of a movie production before, but said it is definitely something he would like to do again. Prior to his job on set, Ross worked in the Marines.

“I’ve spent 21 years traveling in the Marines and seen a lot of amazing things, but seeing the intricacies and details going into a scene is truly an awesome experience,” he said.

Ross has also enjoyed meeting some of the smaller celebrities on set, saying they have been nothing but nice to him and the other BHS graduates. He said when they return to set next week, they will travel to Tifton, where he hopes to meet the main actors, Queen Latifah and Dennis Quaid.

Ross said he is so thankful for this opportunity and hopes he has the chance to work a set again, but if not he is just excited for viewers to see the hard work that was put into the production and show off the area near where he grew up.