Montana Town Allows Controversial Film to Resume Shooting

Livingston, Montana – City officials have voted to allow a film production, controversial for both its content and its on-site practices, to resume shooting within city limits. The Livingston City Commission voted unanimously Monday night to allow the Daily Wire-affiliated movie, reportedly titled ‘Pawn Shop,’ to continue its filming, a decision that came after weeks of local debate and a temporary pause on its permit.

The production, which began in late September, centers on an ICE agent confronting Antifa protesters and MS-13 gang members. The film's script, reviewed by Montana Free Press, includes scenes depicting violence and conservative viewpoints on immigration. Opponents criticized the film's content, with one resident calling it "87 pages of bullshit."

Beyond the script, the film's production process ignited significant local opposition. Neighbors reported being startled by blank gunfire and explosions, raising concerns about public safety. Additionally, many residents and local businesses claimed intimidation and harassment by heavily armed private security hired by the production company. The Livingston Food Resource Center stated that security forces impeded access to their facility, causing an 18-week low in pantry attendance.

These concerns led the City Commission to temporarily suspend the film's permit during an emergency meeting the preceding Saturday. "I think this has been a runaway train," Commissioner Cindy Daniels stated at the time. "I think that they’ve taken advantage of the situation to make their movie that they’re going to profit off of."

At Monday's meeting, producers defended their actions. Dallas Sonnier, a lead producer, cited security threats against the crew, including a truck driving through barricades, as justification for hiring professional security. Amanda Presmyk, another producer, mentioned protesters disrupting filming, creating dangerous distractions.

Producers argued that revoking the permit based on the film's message was a violation of free expression. "A film permit should depend on lawful compliance, not approval of the story being told," Sonnier stated. City Attorney Jon Hesse clarified that the commission's decision would focus solely on whether the production had violated its permit conditions, not the film's content.

Producers pledged to adhere to permit regulations, including ensuring the local food pantry remains accessible, managing private security, and continuing to provide notifications to nearby residents. "I'm sad that we're all gathered here under these circumstances," testified local producer Ari Novak. "In five days from now, much of this film crew will leave. I will still be your neighbor. And I want to be a good neighbor to people I have like-minded ideas with and disagree with."

Despite assurances, some residents remain unconvinced. Katy Canetta, who lives near the filming location, described the security presence as "terrorism" and a violation of public space for private gain. Taylor Wallace, owner of a nearby coffee shop, reported being forced to close due to safety fears for his staff, stating the production's lack of proper notification created "fear, chaos, and ultimately risk."

The city's film permit framework is minimal, generating little revenue for Livingston. However, the permit includes clauses for revocation due to public safety concerns. Residents highlighted that issues like food insecurity and misinformation could be considered public safety concerns, arguing the production exploited lax regulations.

Both sides reported experiencing doxxing and threats. Film industry representatives also emphasized the economic benefits of film production in the region, with Richard Gray of Yellowstone Film Ranch noting significant investment and job creation in recent years. Yetta Stein of Elk River Arts and Lectures countered that economic gain should not supersede community safety.

Commission Chair Melissa Nootz acknowledged the town's limited ordinances regarding film permits, stating, "The things people are asking for, we haven’t written those laws and policies yet."

Filming is expected to conclude by Saturday, with production resuming Tuesday morning.