The Covington, KY, Post Office plays a supporting role in the latest Barry Levinson movie, “Wise Guys,” set for release in 2024.
The film stars Robert De Niro as dueling real-life 1950s mob bosses Vito Genovese and Frank Costello — yes, the actor plays both parts — with the 1941 structure chosen for its intact period courtroom on the second floor.
The arrangement began when location scouts contacted the Covington postmaster, who gave them a tour of the building and directed them to the rights and permission page on usps.com.
The Licensing team handles all requests to use USPS intellectual property, which can include filming at postal sites as well as using the name, logo, vehicles and artwork. The team handled the paperwork and logistics for the Covington filming and coordinated with the postmaster to ensure the filmmakers could do everything they wanted to.
Covington maintenance employees worked closely with the movie crew, helping prepare the location and assisting during filming.
“They treated us well, just like we were part of their team,” said Richie Bibee, a custodian. “They even invited us to have lunch.”
Whether or not it’s a hit at the box office, the Post Office has already benefited from the filming, thanks to the licensing fees.
“All that money goes to the Postal Service bottom line,” said Senior Licensing Specialist Ellen Espinoza-Hale.
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