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- calendar_today October 15, 2026
Nicolas Cage Brings New Film to Stillwater
Oscar-winning actor Nicolas Cage is currently filming his new post-apocalyptic movie, "Parish," at a farm near Stillwater, Minnesota. The production, ongoing through the end of the month, marks one of the biggest star-powered movie shoots in the state in decades. Cage, known for roles in films like “Leaving Las Vegas,” has been spotted throughout the Twin Cities this October, balancing time on set with family activities.
Reviving Minnesota’s Hollywood Appeal
Scenes for "Parish" are being shot on a deteriorating property close to Axdahl’s Greenhouse. The film tells the story of a survivor in a world overrun by zombies. Despite the grim plot, recent shooting days have been calm, with Cage spotted in relaxed moments with his young daughter, Auggie, on set. This high-profile project recalls the 1990s, when stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Meryl Streep shot films in Minnesota. Activity slowed after tax incentives dried up, but "Parish" suggests a renewed Hollywood interest in the region.
The Draw: Minnesota's Film Production Incentives
The decision to film "Parish" in Minnesota was influenced heavily by the state's Film Production Tax Credit. The program, introduced five years ago, offers productions that spend at least $1 million in the state a 25% tax credit. Director Adam Sigal, who had never been to Minnesota prior to this project, praised the area for its artistic energy. Production executive Brianna Fischer, a Minnesota native, was instrumental in bringing the film to the state and had used the same property for the 2024 movie "Marmalade."
The Crew and Local Connections
Director Sigal has embraced the Minnesota experience, celebrating his birthday at the State Fair and developing a taste for Caribou Coffee’s iced tea. The film’s producer, Joel Shapiro, cited local favorites like Cozzie’s Tavern & Grill in Stillwater, while production designer Scott Daniel and others have been enjoying area restaurants. Cinematographer David Tattersall, a previous collaborator with Cage, is also working on "Parish." The main set, a farmhouse with distinctive lived-in details, serves as both the character’s base and the production’s nerve center. Key features include a hand-built metal wall that provides both a dramatic and practical function for the shoot.
A Community and Economic Impact
"Parish" is just one of 17 active projects currently benefiting from Minnesota’s film tax credit, according to Explore Minnesota Film deputy director Nell Lawrenz-Wareham. Most are independent films, but high-profile productions like this one bring added visibility and pride to the local industry. Local businesses are seeing a boost, with the production and crew spending at area restaurants, hotels, and shops. The sense of community is strong—producer Shapiro recalled a local farmer dropping off a gift of fresh strawberries for the crew in the first week of shooting.
Looking to the Future of Filmmaking in Minnesota
Producers and crew members hope "Parish" will lead to more films shooting in the region. Brianna Fischer is already preparing for her next project, an adaptation of "Nice Fish," to be filmed around Mille Lacs Lake and Lake Waconia. With continued support through incentives and the positive experiences of visiting cast and crew, Minnesota’s presence in the film industry could be set for a revival.
Source: startribune.com.
