Another film is in production as momentum builds for the community’s growing on-screen presence
SOMERSET, KENTUCKY (April 6, 2026) — Somerset and Pulaski County are continuing to emerge as a hub for film production in Kentucky, with a new feature film now in production — bringing with it significant economic impact for local businesses and new opportunities for community involvement.
During the last week, hometown film scout and location manager Charlie Louthen and his team from Lex Studios have set up shop in Somerset-Pulaski County to shoot a new feature film, Christmas at Moose Lake, bringing the holiday season back to life in the middle of spring. Not only have residents and visitors been delighted by the community Christmas tree back on display at Fountain Square, but visitors to Pulaski County Park have also been treated to a backdrop of Christmas trees and snow.
This heartwarming, story-driven film is expected to be a network television production. It marks the latest in a growing list of production companies choosing Somerset as a filming destination.
The filming of Christmas at Moose Lake comes on the heels of the March 27 theater release of She Dances, which includes scenes shot at The Center for Rural Development. She Dances is a 2025 American comedy drama film directed by Rick Gomez from a screenplay by Gomez and actor Steve Zahn. Starring Zahn, Ethan Hawke and Zahn’s daughter, Audrey Zahn, the movie is receiving national media attention, including on Late Night with Seth Meyers and in The New Yorker, and is helping shine a spotlight on Somerset as a viable filming location.
For Louthen, the decision to film another movie in Somerset was an easy one.
“I love making movies in Somerset — because Somerset truly loves film,” Louthen said. “Every production here feels like smooth sailing, thanks to incredible support from people like Leslie Ikerd with city tourism, Crystal Kidd at the Chamber of Commerce, and John Alexander with Pulaski County.”
Louthen has been involved in multiple film projects in Somerset, a testament to the experience local partners and businesses have built in supporting productions.
“No matter where I go, I always promote Somerset as a filming destination because productions here are treated so well — not just by local officials, but by the community as a whole,” he said. “This latest film has come together thanks to the support of so many amazing local people and businesses. It truly makes me proud to be from here.”
That sense of community support is a key reason production companies continue to return and a major driver of the economic impact that follows.
“Film production is a powerful example of how tourism and economic development intersect,” said Leslie Ikerd, executive director of See Somerset Tourism. “When a production chooses Somerset, it brings immediate business to our hotels, restaurants, retail shops and service providers, and it also creates opportunities for our residents to be part of something unique.”
More than 500 locals applied to be extras for Christmas at Moose Lake, Ikerd said, highlighting both the excitement surrounding the project and the opportunity for community involvement.
“While we may not know where the finished film will ultimately land, we do know the impact it leaves behind,” Ikerd said. “These productions support countless local businesses and create an energy in our community that enhances our quality of life. For a few weeks, our small town is part of something much bigger, and that matters.”
That impact extends well beyond the production window itself, said Michelle Allen, executive director of Lake Cumberland Tourism.
“Film projects like this don’t just generate short-term economic activity — they help position our community as a destination for future investment,” Allen said. “Each successful production builds confidence among filmmakers and producers, while also introducing new audiences to Somerset and the Lake Cumberland region.”
That growing interest is part of a broader trend across the Commonwealth, supported in part by the Kentucky Entertainment Incentive program, which encourages film and television productions to invest in local communities.
But local leaders say what truly sets Somerset apart is its ability to deliver a seamless, welcoming experience for crews. From coordinating permits and locations to connecting productions with local businesses and talent, organizations across Somerset and Pulaski County have developed a collaborative approach that continues to attract repeat projects, Ikerd said.
“Weeks ago, when Charlie contacted me about his intention to bring a new film here, we immediately got to work helping make connections and find partners and participants to make this project successful,” Ikerd said. “Our ultimate goal is to ensure that the hospitality film crews receive when they come here is second-to-none, and through outstanding collaboration with a number of local organizations, we’ve made that happen. Somerset has something special, and people in the industry are starting to take notice.”
For Louthen, that combination is hard to find elsewhere.
“This is the fourth film I’ve brought here, and each experience has been just as seamless and rewarding as the last,” he said.
