One of Cincinnati’s favorite stars will be taking part in a prestigious global film industry conference coming to the Queen City this September.
In May, Film Cincinnati announced the city was selected as the host of the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI) Cineposium, which is returning to North America for the first time in eight years. This is the organization’s 50th anniversary, and the event, happening Sept. 15-18, will convene film commissioners, studio executives and entertainment industry leaders from across the world for four days of keynote speakers, expert panels, hands-on training and community engagement.
One highlight of the event is that Kentucky native (and Cincinnati-raised) Academy Award-winning actor, filmmaker and humanitarian George Clooney will headline Film Cincinnati’s gala to welcome the AFCI Cineposium and celebrate its 50th anniversary. Clooney will also participate in “A Conversation with George Clooney” to discuss film, family and the future of storytelling on Monday, Sept. 15 at MegaCorp Pavilion in Newport.
“We are thrilled to host AFCI’s Cineposium at the annual Film Cincinnati Gala and welcome George home for a conversation on the film industry,” Kristen Schlotman, president and CEO of Film Cincinnati, said in a press release. “Cincinnati has a long-standing commitment to storytelling and artists, and this conference is a perfect opportunity to showcase the city’s ability to host world-class productions.”
Since his rise to fame, Clooney has returned to Cincinnati for work here and in the surrounding region, bringing high-profile productions, like 2011’s The Ides of March, to the area.
“Partnering with Film Cincinnati for AFCI’s 50th Anniversary highlights this city’s significant role in the film industry and our shared commitment to storytelling,” said Marnie Gee, AFCI’s board chair. “We’re honored that George Clooney, an accomplished storyteller deeply connected to this region, is welcoming AFCI on behalf of Film Cincinnati, underscoring AFCI’s legacy of global collaboration and innovation with the film and television industry as we commemorate our 50th Anniversary as an organization.”
And, for the first time in the Cineposium’s history, the event will be open to non-members, allowing the local community the chance to take part. You can learn more about the Cineposium by visiting afci.org.
Film Cincinnati says anyone interested in table sponsorships, brand partnerships and sponsor opportunities can contact Andrew Reynolds at andrew@filmcincinnati.com.
This article appears in May 28 – Jun 10, 2025.