The Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) is the largest organization of Location Managers and Location Scouts in the motion picture, television, commercial and print production industries. Their membership plays a vital role in the creativ
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8 • LMGI COMPASS | Fall 2024 IN THE NEWS LMGI Rocks House at Comic-Con This past July, the LMGI once again returned to San Diego for its 12th consecutive appearance at Comic- Con International with the wildly popular and sold-out "Hollywood Location Scouts" panel. Moderated by LMGI President John Rakich ( The Changeling, See), this year's group featured LMGI members Michael Glaser (Westworld, Interstellar), Aurelia Thomas (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Loki), Mohammad Qazzaz (The Last of Us, Fargo), Aaron Hurvitz (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Joker), and Nancy Wong (Top Gun: Maverick, The Matrix Resurrections, Avengers: Infinity War). The panelists began with a sizzle reel, featuring work focusing on before-and-after comparisons of various locations. The panelists spoke at length about the creative and logistical challenges they've had in their careers. Said Rakich, "This year's LMGI Comic-Con panelists shone, showcasing the creativity and expertise of location professionals to a packed room, demonstrating how they elevate storytelling to new heights." Aaron Hurvitz said, "Sharing the stage with so many talented people, and talking about the stuff we love was beyond rewarding. It was stunning to see a packed house for our panel and loved hearing we even had more fans waiting in line in case someone left early. I'm happy to report that didn't happen. Experiencing Comic- Con firsthand, you quickly understand how it is a special place for lovers of storytelling and pop culture to openly fly their flags, raise them high and proudly celebrate their passion. Their love and appreciation are both palpable and contagious." Michael Glaser noted, "As a first-time Comic-Con panelist, it's refreshing to see the genuine interest and excitement for our role in the creative process of bringing projects to life. As location managers, we're not only responsible for finding the perfect visual aesthetic but also ensuring each location meets the logistical demands of production. Looking out at a crowd so engaged and curious about our work is a reminder we have one of the most unique and dynamic jobs in the industry. It's an incredible feeling to share how our efforts help shape the worlds audiences love to escape into." Mohammad Qazzaz said, "Experiencing Comic-Con and getting to represent the LMGI was fascinating and truly a moment of pride. It was such a pleasure meeting my fellow panelists in person and hearing some fantastic stories L-R: Michael Glaser/LMGI, Aaron Hurvitz/LMGI, John Rakich/LMGI, Mohammad Qazzaz/LMGI, Aurelia Thomas/LMGI, Nancy Wong/LMGI firsthand! Perhaps the best moment for me was when I realized that we packed a full house! Comic-Con volunteers actually had to turn away dozens of people because there was no room for them! The attendees were all interested in our work and their attentiveness, participation and questions were spectacular. One thing is for sure; the Guild knocks it out of the park every time and the panel we put on was awesome!" "Hollywood Location Scouts" was generously sponsored by the following companies to whom huge thanks are owed for making this possible: Big Bear Lake Film Office, Inland Empire Film Services, Banning Film Office, Riverside County Film Commission, San Bernadino County Economic Development, Riverside Arts & Cultural Affairs and the Temecula Film Office." This also marked the second year of the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Producers Peer Group panel. Location professionals have recently become eligible to join the honorary organization behind the Emmy Awards. As a member Comic-Con: All Photos by Tommy Woodard/LMGI