A story told backwards
We’ll start with our vision of the future at Flyover Film Studios and work our way back to how this building even came into existence.
The Future
Now
1993 - 2021
1917-1993
Historically
see us from space
That is the goal of Flyover Film Studios. Central Illinois is not just a midcontinent space that you fly over on your way to produce a project on one coast or the other.
We are working to increase the footprint of production in Champaign County with standing sets, sound stage space, production office space, and all the peripherals you need to shoot your project. Additionally, we are partnering with colleges, businesses, and the residents to continue to educate and grow crew members and cast.
flyover film studios
A Decommissioned Base Long Forgotten
Bell Helmets was born from auto racing in 1954 and exists today to inspire and enable the next generation of boundary breakers in motorcycle and bicycle. The company occupied Hangar 1 from _________________, but then the hanger sat empty until the Flyover Team saw the untapped potential while filming a movie on the base in 2021/2022.
Chanute Air Force Base
In 1917, to increase U.S. air strength in WWI, ground schools were opened at eight colleges, including the University of Illinois. The site in Rantoul was chosen for its close proximity and for how level the site was. At its peak construction, 2000 men, 200 teams of horses and 3 steam shovels were working.
Always the place to be
Central Illinois has always been a hardworking and forward thinking oasis in the center of the Midwest. With a love for the arts, and a “Get it done” attitude Champaign County has and will continue to thrive.
THE VISION
1
Seen from space
We will build the film and production industry into something so big that there will be no reason to fly to either coast. Someday our backlot will be seen from space. In Central Illinois, we have the talent and the hardworking people to make this vision become a reality.
2
creating community
It takes a village to make a movie, and any other production for that matter. Champaign County has the talent, the drive and the commitment to invest in our area and our talent pool. We will continue to educate people on all that is needed to make this area a go to location for filming.
3
service
Flyover Film Studios has standing sets already in place, with ample room for growth. We also offer production office space, wardrobe, set dec, and props rentals. We are committed to educating and retaining cast and crew talent in the Midwest and we are continually building relationships to bring this all together.
Get to know our community
champaign-urbana film office
The Champaign County Film Office is a valuable resource for filmmakers looking to bring their stories to life in the heart of Illinois. With a deep understanding of the local landscape and community, the Film Office offers hands-on support for productions of all sizes—from indie shorts to major features. Filmmakers can tap into a variety of services, including location scouting, permitting assistance, and connections to local talent and crew. The office also helps navigate city and county regulations, saving valuable time and effort. With Champaign County’s diverse mix of urban, rural, and natural settings, plus a vibrant and welcoming community, it's an ideal filming destination. Connect with Mark Brown, Director of Event Services & Films to learn more and get started on your production.
Parkland College
Parkland College recently announced a new partnership with Rantoul-based Flyover Film Studios and two Champaign-based film production companies to expand the pipeline of professionals in central Illinois entering the film industry.
Parkland students pursuing the college's Entertainment Technology AAS degree now have an option to work as an intern with professionals in the film and TV production field at Flyover Film Studios and at Shatterglass Films and The Line Film Co. of Champaign. The internship opportunities will enhance the real-world, hands-on experience the program currently provides, according to Parkland College Theatre Director Brian Morgan.
The Entertainment Technology AAS degree prepares students to pursue a variety of careers in theatre, film, television, entertainment venues, theme parks, and commercial scenery shops. This versatile program provides foundational skills in wood and metal custom fabrication, lighting and sound technologies, management principles, basic automation operation and design, and industrial safety. Graduates of the AAS degree can work as union stagehands or in a commercial technology vendor company.
Parkland Theatre student Drew Bagby, who took Flyover's Workforce Training course in Rantoul last spring, said he would recommend the internship training.