The streets and storefronts of Downtown Rogers may look familiar to viewers of the newly released rock drama Shakey Grounds, a powerful independent film distributed by Gravitas Ventures. Shot extensively across Northwest Arkansas—including multiple locations in Downtown Rogers in February 2023--the film is already generating buzz for its heartfelt storytelling and strong local ties. The movie features several key scenes set in the heart of Downtown Rogers—including inside the historic building at 117 W Walnut Street. Formerly home to Moonbroch Pub and The Shire, the building served as the backdrop for the movie’s concert and bar scenes, which will be recognizable to many locals. The property is currently for sale, offering a unique opportunity for adaptive reuse as a restaurant, bar, event venue, or other investment venture.

A compelling rock drama, Shakey Grounds weaves together themes of passion, grief, personal transformation, and musical redemption. The film features a talented ensemble cast including Eric Nelson, Ella Cannon, Jonny Danks, David Lautman, Moses Jones, MacKenzie Ziegler, and screen veteran Eric Roberts.

• At the heart of the story is Travis (Nelson), a gifted yet emotionally fractured musician haunted by the loss of his best friend and bandmate. His bond with the band’s manager, Mel (Cannon), serves as the emotional anchor of the film as they navigate the rocky path of healing and ambition.
• As internal and external conflicts escalate—especially when Nick (Danks), a disgraced record executive, re-emerges with a high-stakes comeback offer—old wounds are reopened. Tensions rise further when Nick’s shady past is exposed by his rival, Brad (Lautman), threatening to unravel the band just as they're poised for revival.
• In the midst of chaos, Travis must choose between retreating into grief or stepping up as a leader. His decision culminates in a soul-stirring, show-stopping performance, a moment that powerfully symbolizes rebirth and renewed purpose—not just for Travis, but for the entire band.

Lights, Camera, Arkansas: Rogers as a Filmmaking Destination

The filming of Shakey Grounds took place in Rogers, Bentonville, Fayetteville, and Prairie Grove, making full use of Northwest Arkansas’s diverse settings—from gritty urban alleys to quiet neighborhoods and intimate performance venues. These locations were curated and secured by NWA film professional, Demara Titzer, a seasoned locations manager with more than 22 years in the region. Demara’s deep familiarity with the area allows her to identify and transform local sites to meet the unique demands of each script, period, and genre.

Titzer has worked with the Rogers Lowell Chamber, Destination Rogers, Downtown Rogers Economic Development, and the City of Rogers for more than five years to support production efforts and bring films to life in Rogers.

Shakey Grounds was filmed in Downtown Rogers in February 2023, in addition to multiple other locations in NWA. Another film, In Fortune’s Shadow, was shot across 13 days in downtown Rogers in February 2024. 

Collaboration, Community, and Economic Impact

Productions like Shakey Grounds aren’t just creative ventures—they’re significant economic engines. A single shoot can involve 50 to 80 cast and crew members daily, requiring local support for everything from hotels and catering to rental cars and base camps. Crews often hire off-duty law enforcement for security, employ local residents as background actors, and rely on city coordination for managing street access, utilities, and public safety.

The Rogers Lowell Chamber has been a vital partner in these efforts—helping production teams connect with business owners, coordinate with city departments, and ensure a smooth experience for both the filmmakers and the community.

Base camp operations typically include production trailers, hair and makeup units, wardrobe, props, lighting, generators, and talent accommodations—a small traveling village that temporarily transforms corners of the city into vibrant, cinematic worlds.

From Downtown Rogers to the Screen

With its blend of emotional storytelling, energetic music, and intimate performances, Shakey Grounds is a film that leaves a lasting impression—and it all began in the neighborhoods and venues of Downtown Rogers and nearby locations in Northwest Arkansas.

Available on Demand Friday, May 23

The film will be available to rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Fandango at Home, Microsoft, Comcast Xfinity, Verizon Fios, DirecTV, and other major digital platforms beginning May 23.  Viewers nationwide will get a glimpse into both the power of storytelling and filmmaking potential of Rogers.

As more productions discover what Rogers has to offer—from its rich visuals to its community spirit—the city continues to establish itself as a premier filming location in the heart of the Arkansas Ozarks.

View the movie trailer with concert and bar scenes filmed at 117 W Walnut Street plus other familiar locations throughout NWA, by clicking here. 

Rogers isn’t just a great place to film—it’s a great place to visit.  If you have friends, family or business associates planning a trip, retreat, conference or other major event, invite them to discover why Rogers is capturing attention on screen and off.

#FilmInRogers #GoDowntownRogers #GravitasVentures #ArkansasFilm #LocationSpotlight #DestinationRogers #TheNaturalState #WherePossibleLives