Hollywood comes to Anchorage and makes a stop at the YMCA

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – In an exciting turn of events, Anchorage is making headlines as Hollywood comes to town for a new film project. After weeks of speculation and whispers, an Anchorage producer has confirmed that a film is currently being shot in the area, with several scenes being filmed in and around Anchorage. This development has not only stirred curiosity among residents but has also sparked enthusiasm about what it means for local culture and the economy.

The producer, who has chosen to remain anonymous, shared that sightings of prominent stars such as Dakota Fanning and Jake Johnson have become common throughout the city. Locals have had the chance to interact with these talented actors, which has only heightened the buzz around the production. Jim Young, the Athletic Director at Yukon of Alaska, was particularly thrilled to meet Fanning, recounting, “She was super, super nice. I was like, ‘Hey, welcome to Alaska!’ and she responded, ‘I’m glad to be here; you have a beautiful state.’” Such kind interactions can really enhance the community’s connection to Hollywood.

The excitement doesn’t stop there. Young also met Jake Johnson, known for his roles in various sitcoms, who left a positive impression on him as well. While many details about the film remain under wraps, it’s clear that the YMCA gym on Lake Otis has played host to some key scenes. The producers reached out weeks ago with a request to utilize the gym for a basketball scene, showcasing how Anchorage’s local facilities are becoming part of a grander narrative.

To add to the real-life drama unfolding in Anchorage, two of the YMCA’s girls’ teams were invited to act as players in the film. One young athlete, 10-year-old Makayla Zackery, had the opportunity to shine in front of the camera. Her mother, Erin Zackery, shared the excitement and apprehensions of being part of a big-screen project. “They weren’t sure what the movie was even about,” she said, highlighting how the young athletes were given specific instructions without a clear understanding of the larger picture. This lack of knowledge, however, did not dampen their spirits.

Zackery emphasized the valuable lessons learned through this experience. “One of the things that has come out of this is just having a lot more appreciation for what goes into making a movie,” she explained. The families involved dedicated over ten hours across two days filming what might only translate into three minutes of screen time. The scale of production, including the multitude of cameras, crew, and equipment, opened their eyes to the complexities of filmmaking.

In addition to the YMCA, other local establishments are also rumored to be part of the movie’s backdrop. While REI has not confirmed any filming activity, several extras have mentioned that their scenes were shot in the outdoor retailer’s store. Furthermore, local coffee shop Arctic Roadrunner has been buzzing with cast and crew sightings, further embedding Anchorage into the cinematic experience.

Young expressed a sentiment that resonates with many locals: “How often do you get a movie to be filmed in Alaska?” He reflected on the pride and excitement of sharing the space with a film crew, reinforcing the notion that such events can highlight the beauty and uniqueness of Alaska. The opportunity for the YMCA to participate is viewed as nothing short of phenomenal.

This Hollywood presence does not only entertain but potentially enriches the local economy as well. Filming in Anchorage creates job opportunities for local talent, crews, and businesses. Local vendors benefit from increased traffic and sales, while schools and community organizations can benefit from collaborative projects that arise from such productions.

As the community rallies around this exciting film project, it also serves as a reminder of how closely knit the fabric of Anchorage is. Whenever Hollywood comes to town, it tends to unite communities, foster connections, and stimulate local pride. For families and kids who get to meet their favorite stars, it’s an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

In conclusion, as Anchorage welcomes Hollywood to its quaint town, the excitement surrounding the film has captivated both residents and local businesses. The project not only shines a spotlight on the beauty of Alaska but also serves as a vehicle for community engagement and appreciation for the arts. While details about the film remain shrouded in secrecy, one thing is certain: Anchorage is ready for its close-up, and the community is eager to embrace all the adventures that come with this cinematic journey. The joy and anticipation are palpable, showcasing that when Hollywood comes to Anchorage, it’s not just about the stars but also about the vibrant local spirit.

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