Kevin Costner, the acclaimed actor, producer, director, and writer, will be honored with the Eva Monley Award by the Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) during the 12th Annual LMGI Awards gala. The event is scheduled for August 23, 2025, at the Eli and Edythe Broad Stage. This award recognizes Costner’s exceptional dedication to storytelling through the use of real film locations, a hallmark throughout his career in both movies and television.
Costner’s work has demonstrated how locations serve as more than just backdrops, but as integral storytelling elements that enhance characters and narratives in iconic productions such as Dances with Wolves, The Bodyguard, Field of Dreams, Yellowstone, and the recent series Horizon: An American Saga. His connection to authentic settings has made a significant impact on the emotional and visual aspects of his projects.
Recognizing a Career Shaped by Authentic Storytelling
John Rakich, president of the Location Managers Guild International, praised Kevin Costner’s approach to filmmaking, emphasizing his understanding of locations as essential narrative tools. Rakich described Costner as an ideal recipient of the Eva Monley Award because of his commitment to authenticity and respect for the craft of location work.
“Kevin Costner has long understood that locations are more than scenery–they are storytelling tools that shape the emotional and visual language of a film. His commitment to authenticity and his deep respect for the craft makes him a perfect recipient of the Eva Monley Award. We’re honored to celebrate his legacy and his ongoing contributions to the art of filmmaking,” —John Rakich, LMGI president
Celebrated for his versatility across multiple genres, Costner’s career spans over 40 years with numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, three Golden Globes, and a Primetime Emmy Award. He gained widespread recognition for starring roles in films such as The Untouchables, Bull Durham, Silverado, JFK, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, No Way Out, and A Perfect World. His work extends beyond acting; he co-produced and starred in Wyatt Earp and Waterworld, and directed films like The Postman and Open Range.
The Significance of the Eva Monley Award
The Eva Monley Award honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to filmmaking through exceptional use of real locations. This prestigious recognition highlights the importance of authentic places in visual storytelling. Past winners include influential directors such as Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, Wes Anderson, and Danny Boyle, aligning Costner with a distinguished group celebrated for their commitment to cinematic realism.
Lifetime Achievement Award to Ilt Jones
Alongside Costner’s award, the LMGI will present its Lifetime Achievement Award to veteran location manager Ilt Jones, known for his creative vision in major films like The Dark Knight Rises, Inception, Iron Man 3, Kong: Skull Island, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Captain Marvel, and the Transformers franchise. Jones’ work has shaped the visual identity of some of the film industry’s most iconic productions.
A Celebration of Location Professionals Worldwide
The Location Managers Guild International Awards recognize outstanding achievements in location scouting and management across film, television, commercials, and film commissions globally. Categories include Contemporary Film, Period Film, Contemporary TV, Period TV, Television Anthology/MOW/Limited Series, Commercials, and Film Commissions.
In addition to the Eva Monley Award and Lifetime Achievement Award, other honorary categories such as the Humanitarian and Trailblazer Awards honor exceptional contributions by location professionals. This annual event highlights the craft essential to authentic storytelling and the impact locations have on the audience’s connection to the narrative.
Organizing and Producing the LMGI Awards
The 2025 LMGI Awards Committee is chaired by John Rakich and Nancy Haecker. Returning producers for the gala include IngleDodd Media and Erick Weiss of Honeysweet Creative, working alongside writer Shelly Goldstein. Their collaborative efforts ensure the continued prominence of recognizing location professionals and their vital role in the filmmaking process.
Looking Ahead: Kevin Costner’s Enduring Influence on Storytelling
Receiving the Kevin Costner Eva Monley Award cements his legacy as a filmmaker deeply invested in the artistry of location-driven storytelling. His body of work exemplifies how authentic settings can enrich narratives, making characters and stories resonate more powerfully with audiences.
As the LMGI continues to spotlight individuals like Costner and Jones, the industry’s appreciation of location management evolves, encouraging future productions to maintain authenticity and respect for real-world environments. The upcoming awards ceremony promises to further celebrate these contributions and inspire creative excellence in film and television.
