By Sufiyan Khan 
🎬 Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach: Two Unique Projects Shine in 2025
This summer, Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach will take on an exciting new meaning. L.A.-based producer, writer, and director Patricia DiSalvo Viayra is spinning two personal and powerful films right here—on local shores, with local talent.
1. Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach: Smile! — Dark Comedy with a Message
DiSalvo Viayra recently began shooting Smile!, a short dark comedy that explores how Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach can carry deep meaning. The plot follows a young woman who accidentally joins a cult, highlighting the dangers of religious manipulation.
The first project, “Smile!”, is a short dark comedy that explores the story of a young woman who unintentionally joins a cult. Set against local backdrops, it serves as a “proof of concept” with plans to become a full-length feature — likely still filmed in Myrtle Beach.
The second film, “Connected,” is a heartfelt drama inspired by the filmmaker’s own struggles with long COVID and the loss of her dog. This emotional story of resilience and recovery will begin filming in late June and early July in the Myrtle Beach area.
Both movies filmed in Myrtle Beach focus on themes like grief, faith, and healing, drawing heavily from DiSalvo Viayra’s own life experiences. With support from local businesses such as Myrtle Beach Pools and Palms, Linda Gross Properties, and Lovers Lane Weddings, these productions highlight the area’s growing role in the film industry.
- Purpose: A proof-of-concept short aimed at attracting investors for a future feature-length version.
- Significance: It touches on real-life vulnerabilities—especially relevant amid chronic illness and isolation themes.
2. Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach: Connected — Emotional Drama Rooted in Reality
The second film, Connected, is set to roll out later this June–July. Based on Patricia’s own experience with long COVID and the loss of her dog, this heartfelt drama captures resilience and recovery.
- Plot: A chronically ill woman navigates grief and finds healing through her beloved pet.
- Themes: Grief, healing, companionship—rooted in true personal experience.
- Tone: Complementary to Smile! — one movie explores darkness, the other finding light.
3. Local Talent and Venues Enhancing Movies in Myrtle Beach
True to the spirit of Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach, both productions feature diverse casts and crews from Los Angeles, local residents, and beyond. Several area businesses have opened their doors to the filmmakers:
- Myrtle Beach Pools and Palms
- Linda Gross Properties
- Lovers Lane Weddings
These local partnerships add authenticity to the films while boosting community engagement.
4. Patricia’s Personal Journey Driving the Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach
For DiSalvo Viayra, these movies are deeply personal and reflect her own transformational journey:
- Smile! was inspired by navigating spiritual vulnerability during illness in 2020.
- Connected follows the emotional journey of illness and pet loss—an experience many can relate to.
Together, these Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach represent a journey from despair to hope.
Why Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach Matter
- Authenticity matters: Real locations and genuine community involvement bring the stories to life.
- Local economic impact: Film shoots highlight local businesses and talent, generating publicity and jobs.
- Strong storytelling: These films delve into universal themes—power, faith, loss, healing—through a personal lens.
- Growth potential: Smile! as a short format could evolve into a full feature; Connected reinforces powerful, relatable storytelling.
What’s Next for Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach?
- Completion schedule: The Connected shoot wraps in early July.
- Investor engagement: Smile! will be showcased to secure funding for expansion.
- Future releases: Stay tuned for festival runs, feature versions, or local premieres.
- Community screenings: Potential for local showcase events, involving cast, crew, and supporters.
Final Take on Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach
Movies Filmed in Myrtle Beach this summer aren’t just location choices—they’re powerful storytelling vehicles reflecting personal battles, transformation, and community spirit. With Smile! and Connected, Patricia DiSalvo Viayra harnesses the beauty, creativity, and talent of her adopted home to tell stories that resonate far beyond the coast.
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