The 12th Annual LMGI Awards are shining a spotlight on the often-unsung heroes of film and television—location managers—whose work quietly shapes the atmosphere and believability of the stories we love. As the Location Managers Guild International prepares for its 2025 ceremony on August 23 in Santa Monica, there’s a growing sense of appreciation for how real-world places transform scripts into rich, visual experiences. This year, the competition is fiercer than ever, with a record number of submissions reflecting the global impact of thoughtful, immersive location design.
Among the most anticipated film nominees, Sinners has emerged as a leading contender in the Outstanding Locations in a Period Feature Film category. Its nomination places it alongside heavyweight titles like The Apprentice, A Complete Unknown, Fly Me to the Moon, Gladiator II, and I’m Still Here. Each of these films relies heavily on historical and atmospheric detail, with their chosen locations playing an essential role in immersing audiences in the eras they depict. Meanwhile, in the contemporary feature film category, Conclave stands out for its modern-day narrative depth. It shares the spotlight with Anora, A Real Pain, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, and Twisters, each of which showcases how modern locations can be just as emotionally and visually compelling.
On the television side, The Studio has earned a nomination for Outstanding Locations in a Contemporary Television Series. With competition from titles like The Day of the Jackal, Landman, The Last of Us Season 2, Mobland, and Slow Horses Season 4, this category is packed with shows that have mastered the art of using real-world settings to elevate character and plot development. From gritty post-apocalyptic terrains to the refined interiors of political thrillers, each nomination underlines the importance of setting as a storytelling device.
The LMGI Awards go far beyond celebrating logistics—they honor the artistic vision it takes to find, scout, and frame the perfect backdrop for every scene. These location professionals often work quietly behind the curtain, yet their decisions are pivotal in shaping how audiences emotionally connect with the story. This year’s awards don’t just mark another ceremony; they reflect a renewed industry-wide recognition of how powerful physical spaces are in creating cinematic and episodic magic. With films like Sinners and shows like The Studio leading the way, the 2025 LMGI Awards promise to be a heartfelt celebration of the landscapes—both seen and felt—that bring fiction to life.
