Some of Hollywood’s biggest names are in Rhode Island to make a movie.

Local leaders welcomed the cast of the “Ella McCay,” which will be filmed in the state.

It was practically a party in the Rhode Island State Room as the Rhode Island Film and TV Office, state, and community leaders welcomed the cast of “Ella McCay.”

Speaker of the House Joe Shekarchi and others joked about the event’s turnout.

“I’ve never been in a room so packed with people who have smiles on their faces,” said Shekarchi.

Laughs erupted throughout the packed room.

Rhode Island Film and TV Office’s Steven Feinberg spoke of the honor and joy of having the film production in Rhode Island.

“We’re celebrating a tremendous collaboration and a gathering of the nation’s finest artists as they embark on a new 20th Century studios production of “Ella McCay,” and it’s being made right here in our beautiful Ocean State,” said Feinberg.

Rhode Island Film and TV Office said Mackey plays the role of a young politician who juggles family issues and work life as she prepares to take her mentor’s job, the state’s longtime incumbent governor.

“What I need for this film is to represent America in sort of the best sense possible,” said Brooks. “We looked at a lot of places, and I’m so glad we’re here, and we feel it every day.”

Like prior major productions, the film is expected to bring tourism and economic benefits to Rhode Island.

Curtis said the SAG-AFTRA union strike limited opportunities in California, bringing them to the Ocean State.

She was met with applause on numerous occasions, including during her praise of the Ocean State for its support of film productions in the state.

“If you don’t want all of the revenues and all of the teamwork and work and support for all of the parts of the movie business…if you don’t want us to leave and go to places like Rhode Island, than you have to create tax incentives for the people in California,” said Curtis. “Or we’re going to come here everytime.”