Fostering Film Talent: Elevating Colorado Filmmaking on the Global Stage

Colorado Film Production ‘The Bench’ Amplifies Voices of the unhoused, Boosts Local Economy

October 7, 2025

Grand Junction, Colorado, is quickly becoming a sought-after location for film production, as demonstrated by the recent completion of “The Bench,” a powerful new film focused on the experiences of individuals experiencing homelessness. The production not only brought a compelling story to life but also provided notable opportunities for students and alumni of Colorado Mesa University (CMU) Tech and the wider community.

Directed by Ron Carlson and co-written by Carlson alongside robert Galinsky, “The Bench” is set in Los Angeles, but much of the filming took place in Western Colorado. The project was facilitated by Josh Meuwly, an instructor of Digital Filmmaking at CMU Tech, who also serves as the Grand Junction Regional Liaison for the Colorado Office of Film, Television and Media (COFTM).

CMU Tech’s Central Role in Production

Meuwly’s position proved instrumental in securing resources and accommodations for the production, exceeding the benefits of Colorado’s film incentive program, which currently offers a 20-22% rebate on qualified expenses. His efforts enabled CMU Tech to contribute significantly beyond financial incentives.

A total of 18 CMU students and alumni were directly involved in the production. Levi Kramer served as the 2nd assistant camera, Eric Sigler as best boy electric, and Ryan Simpson, an alumnus, worked as a grip. Additionally, fifteen students gained hands-on experience as production assistants and interns, some with as little as one semester of training.

Community Impact and Industry Partnerships

Beyond providing a training ground for aspiring filmmakers, the production extended its impact to the local community. In partnership with organizations like the United Way, Bombas Socks, and Blankets of Hope, the crew distributed thousands of pairs of socks and blankets to individuals experiencing homelessness in the Grand Mesa Valley. This initiative underscored the film’s central theme of compassion and empathy.

Denver Film also played a crucial role, coordinating with Meuwly to secure a production Assistant Grant from COFTM. This grant provided wages for six student production assistants and will grant them access to the upcoming Denver Film Festival this October.

Colorado’s Growing Film Industry

The success of “The Bench” highlights Colorado’s growing appeal as a filming location.According to the Colorado Office of Film, Television and Media, the industry generated an estimated $448.3 million in economic impact in 2023.

Year	Direct Spending (Millions)
2021	$314.7
2022	$395.6
2023	$448.3

“Having a production like ‘The Bench’ take place in Grand Junction provides invaluable real-world experience for students and strengthens our statewide production ecosystem,” stated Arielle Brachfeld,deputy film commissioner for COFTM. “it makes Colorado an even more attractive destination for future film projects.”

Did You Know? Colorado’s film incentive program was recently expanded to include a broader range of qualifying expenses, further boosting its competitiveness.

Pro Tip: local communities looking to attract film productions should focus on developing a skilled workforce and offering attractive incentives.

About the Film

“The Bench” centers around five unhoused characters who find solace and community on a simple park bench. The film explores themes of grief, healing, memory, and the importance of human connection, offering a poignant and revealing look into their individual struggles and hopes.

The Rise of Location Filming

The trend of filming in locations outside of traditional hubs like Los Angeles and New York is gaining momentum. Reasons for this include lower production costs,access to diverse landscapes,and the desire for authenticity.States like Georgia, louisiana, and now Colorado, are actively courting film productions with attractive incentives and a supportive infrastructure. This shift benefits local economies by creating jobs, stimulating tourism, and showcasing unique regional stories. According to a recent report by FilmLine, location filming accounted for over 30% of all major film and television productions in 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions about “The Bench” and Colorado film Production

• What is ‘The Bench’ about? “The Bench” is a film that centers on the lives of five unhoused individuals and explores themes of community, grief, and connection.
• How did CMU Tech contribute to the production of ‘the Bench’? CMU tech provided resources, staffing, and hands-on learning opportunities for its students and alumni.
• What benefits does Colorado offer to film productions? Colorado offers a 20-22% rebate on qualified expenses and a growing infrastructure to support film production.
• What impact did the production have on the Grand Junction community? The production donated thousands of items to the unhoused population and provided employment opportunities for local students.
• Is Colorado becoming a major film production hub? Yes, Colorado’s film industry is experiencing significant growth due to incentives, diverse locations, and a skilled workforce.
• What is the Colorado Office of Film, Television and Media? The COFTM is a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Advancement and International trade (OEDIT) dedicated to promoting Colorado as a film production destination.

What are your thoughts on the increasing number of films highlighting social issues? Share your perspective in the comments below!

How can Colorado’s film education programs better collaborate with industry professionals to ensure curriculum relevance?

The Rising Colorado Film Industry: A Hub for Creativity

Colorado’s film industry is experiencing a notable surge, attracting filmmakers with it’s stunning landscapes, supportive communities, and increasingly accessible resources. Beyond the breathtaking scenery – from the Rocky Mountains to the plains – a dedicated effort to cultivate local talent is driving this growth. This isn’t just about attracting big-budget productions; it’s about building a sustainable ecosystem for independent filmmakers, documentary creators, and the next generation of cinematic storytellers. key areas of growth include independent film production, commercial filming, and an expanding post-production sector.

Educational Pathways: Nurturing the Next Generation

A cornerstone of elevating Colorado filmmaking is robust film education. Several institutions are playing a vital role:

* Colorado College: Offers courses like FM205, focusing on the fundamentals of filmmaking – planning, shooting, and editing – culminating in a public screening (https://www.coloradocollege.edu/academics/curriculum/catalog/courses/fm205.html). This hands-on approach is crucial for developing practical skills.

* University of Colorado Denver: Provides thorough film and video production programs, covering everything from screenwriting to cinematography.

* Community Colleges: Offer introductory courses and workshops, making film education accessible to a wider audience.

* Film Festivals & Workshops: Events like the Telluride Film Festival and Denver Film Festival aren’t just showcases; they ofen host workshops and masterclasses led by industry professionals.

These programs are vital for building a skilled workforce capable of handling all aspects of film production. The focus on short projects and public screenings,as seen at colorado College,provides invaluable experience and networking opportunities.

Funding & Incentives: Fueling Production

Access to funding remains a critical challenge for independent filmmakers. Colorado is actively working to improve this landscape:

* Colorado film Commission: The primary resource for filmmakers seeking permits, location assistance, and facts on incentives.

* State Film Incentive: While historically limited, Colorado’s film incentive program is evolving. Current incentives often focus on cash rebates for qualified Colorado expenditures.

* Local Grants & Funding opportunities: Numerous regional arts organizations and foundations offer grants specifically for film projects.

* Private Investment: A growing number of angel investors and venture capital firms are showing interest in Colorado-based film projects.

Increased funding and streamlined incentive programs are essential to attract larger productions and support the growth of local filmmaking.

Building a Collaborative Community: Networking & Resources

A thriving film community relies on collaboration and shared resources:

* Colorado Film & Video Association (CFVA): A key association connecting filmmakers, providing networking opportunities, and advocating for the industry.

* Film Production Support Services: Colorado boasts a growing number of companies offering equipment rentals, post-production services (editing, sound design, color correction), and location scouting.

* Co-working Spaces: Dedicated co-working spaces for creatives are emerging, providing affordable office space and fostering collaboration.

* Online Platforms: Online groups and forums connect filmmakers, share resources, and facilitate project collaborations.

Case Study: The Impact of location Scouting & Natural Beauty

Colorado’s diverse landscapes have consistently drawn filmmakers. The state has served as a backdrop for numerous films and television shows, including The Shining (filmed partly in the Stanley Hotel), True Grit, and various outdoor adventure documentaries. The economic impact of these productions extends beyond direct spending on film crews and equipment; it also boosts tourism and showcases Colorado’s natural beauty to a global audience. Effective location scouting and showcasing these assets are crucial for attracting future projects.

Practical Tips for Colorado filmmakers

* Network Actively: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with other filmmakers.

* Leverage Local Resources: Utilize the Colorado Film Commission and CFVA for support and information.

* Explore funding Options: Research and apply for grants, seek private investment, and consider crowdfunding.

* Embrace Collaboration: Partner with other filmmakers and creatives to share resources and expertise.

* Showcase your Work: Submit your films to festivals and online platforms to gain exposure.

* Understand the Incentive Program: stay updated on the latest changes to Colorado’s film incentive program.

The Future of Colorado Film: Sustainability & growth

The future of Colorado filmmaking hinges on continued investment in education, funding, and community building. by fostering a supportive ecosystem for local talent and attracting larger productions, Colorado can solidify its position as a significant player on the global stage.The focus should be on sustainable growth, ensuring that the benefits of the film industry are shared across the state and that Colorado’s unique creative voice is amplified.