Update on The Pharrell Movie Shooting in Richmond, VA

by | May 1, 2024 | FILM & TV, HIP HOP & RAP

As we reported a few weeks ago, Pharrell and director Michel Gondry are coming to Richmond and now we have more information to share.

As reported by The Virginian-Pilot, the production of a movie musical based on the childhood of Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams is set to make a significant economic impact on Virginia. With a total estimated statewide economic benefit of about $84 million, the film is positioned to be a major project in Richmond and Hampton Roads. The Virginia Film Office has detailed plans for the production which is expected to receive over $12 million in state incentives.

The movie, which portrays Williams’ upbringing in the Atlantis apartment complex, has chosen Richmond as its primary filming location. Additional photography will take place in Virginia Beach. This choice reinforces the state’s appeal as a filming destination, bolstered by an incentive agreement that provides up to $9 million in grants and an additional $3.35 million for a promotional advertising campaign.

The shooting schedule is concentrated between May 15 and August 7. During this period, the production will utilize approximately 500 crew members, 25 actors, and 2,700 extras, marking it as one of the largest filming projects in the state this year.

This project not only highlights Pharrell’s dedication to his roots but also positions Virginia as a competitive locale against major film production states like Georgia, which had offered the project around $15 million in incentives. The production is anticipated to spend more than $42 million within Virginia, underpinning significant economic contributions and showcasing the state’s capacity to host large-scale productions.

You can apply to be an extra HERE

PHARRELL UPDATE MAY 16TH, 2024

From Croaker’s Spot in Downtown Richmond! “You never know who is going to stop by the restaurant! Thank you to Virginia’s own Pharrell Williams for dining with us!”

Main photo of group N.E.R.D. by Jai Lennard featuring Chad Hugo, Pharrell Williams & Shay Haley

RVA Staff

RVA Staff

Since 2005, the dedicated team at RVA Magazine, known as RVA Staff, has been delivering the cultural news that matters in Richmond, VA. This talented group of professionals is committed to keeping you informed about the events and happenings in the city.




more in music

MJ The Musical Brings The King of Pop to Life at Altria Theater

When MJ The Musical hit the Altria Theater on Tuesday night, Richmond showed up. A packed house, fans rocking single sequined gloves—yeah, the energy was Thrilling (pun intended). As an ‘80s kid, walking into that kind of atmosphere was electric....

Welcome Back Dave Matthews Band, Its Been Awhile

For the first time in nearly three decades, the Dave Matthews Band (DMB) will perform in Richmond, Virginia. The band has announced two back-to-back shows at the Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront on July 15 and 16, 2025. For longtime Richmonders, this is more than...

Sound Check! Wes Parker, Rubblebucket, Sweet Bahs

In a dancing mood this week. We got some bouncers, some swayers, some goth sporadic twitching. Got a show coming up? New single? Simply want someone to talk music? I am your guy at griffin@rvamag.com.  Gallery5 Friday January 31st, 2025Wes Parker, Opin, Sun V Set...

Vinyl Conflict | Where Richmond Music Gets Love

Richmond isn’t flashy. Its culture doesn’t scream for attention; it waits for you to find it. Vinyl Conflict is a record shop that doesn’t just sling albums but actively shapes the city’s music scene, funding releases, hosting shows, and putting Richmond’s artists on...

Sound Check! Bone Machine, Benjamin Shepherd, Nicotine Dolls

Sometimes the world feels bleak. Right now, in my eyes, the world looks bleak. I went to think about it, take stock of what puts gas in my tank, and did my pondering at The Camel, at Gallery 5, at Bandito’s. After all that, I didn’t feel so bad. Got a show coming up?...