Georgia Deputy Commissioner for film, music and digital entertainment recently discussed the impact of Coronavirus and when TV and movie production is expected to resume.
Newnan Times-Herald recently reported Thomas spoke at a meeting of the White Oak Golden K. Thomas explained that despite the Coronavirus is affecting the world but, Georgia’s film industry is still in a strong position. Despite the shutdown of film productions last spring, film productions are beginning to ramp up production with at least 20 in productions or filming preparation in Georgia.
“We are continuing to welcome productions back to Georgia and get our incredible crews and film teams back to work. We have more projects in preproduction, which may begin to September or October,” she said. “Stage space is also starting to fill up again, and we’re at the point where we’re almost full for the fall.”
We have more projects in preproduction, which may begin to September or October
This news comes after Thomas previously stated more productions could be headed to Georgia due to the Coronavirus. Thomas provided an update on Georgia’s film industry on June 2nd at a virtual luncheon near the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber.
Thomas reportedly discussed how California and New York are seriously impacted by the Coronavirus, which gives Georgia an opportunity to beat their competitors. “There were projects that had stages they had holds on starting in late summer, but the projects in those stages beforehand haven’t finished their work yet. It’s going to be interesting how these sound stages can accommodate all the projects coming in, not only the projects coming back but also the new ones scheduled.
“We’ll also get even more projects coming from other states because Georgia is reopening faster than other states. … We also have all these new streaming services’ projects.”
Georgia-filmed productions have received nearly 50 total 2020 Emmy Award nominations. According to Gov. Brian Kemp, Georgia is ranked the No. 1 Film Production Leader by Business Facilities Magazine. Also, Georgia was on track for another record-setting year before the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Georgia takes the crown in our new Film Production Leaders category, ranking the states that are the top locations for motion picture and TV production,” writes Business Facilities Magazine.
“Thank you to Business Facilities Magazine for featuring Georgia in their 2020 Rankings Report,” said Governor Kemp. “Our production numbers show Georgia was on pace for another record year for the film industry before COVID-19, and they confirm that Georgia continues to lead the way in film production. The film industry has had a significant impact in communities across the Peach State, and this top-ranking puts a spotlight on the hardworking Georgians who are the real faces of this great industry.”
