Georgia's film industry is on fire.
Nearly every popular TV show and movie has filmed in the state of Georgia including Stranger Things, Atlanta, The Hunger Games and every Tyler Perry TV show and movie.
But, Georgia's film industry is a lot bigger than you think.
According to reports, Georgia's film industry grew by $1 billion in 2016, generating $7 billion in revenue. During that point in time Georgia has produced 245 feature films and TV shows, which led to $2.02 billion in direct spending in the state. While that is three productions less than last year, but $300 million more in direct spending.
“Georgia's film industry provides a significant impact on our state's economy, employing thousands of Georgians while developing infrastructure and boosting small businesses,” Gov. Nathan Deal said in a statement.
“The film industry has created a home in Georgia, and I am committed to retaining this relationship by constructing a strong, film-ready workforce that will continue to help the industry thrive.”
According to Gov. Nathan Deal, more than 130 businesses have relocated or expanded in Georgia, creating jobs and economic opportunities.
In addition, Holly Quinlan, CEO of Cobb Travel and Tourism, said she has seen an increase in film-related industries in Cobb. She answered 250 requests to film in the county in 2015, and that number continues to grow.
From MDJ Online:
“I think they are interested (in filming in Cobb) because of our unique, one-of-a-kind locations,” she said, adding that the impact on the local economy is “significant” with the hiring of local residents and use of hotels and other local business during production.
Quinlan also said she has seen an increase in the number of film-related businesses in the county such as lighting, sound and editing studios and talent scouts.
So why is Georgia's film industry growing?
Georgia offers tax incentives for film and television companies filming in Georgia. A 20 percent transferable tax credit is given for expenditures made in Georgia, along with an additional 10 percent in credits if a Georgia logo is used in the credits.
And while those tax credits draw more productions to the state, Georgia spent $504 million in tax credits in 2015, which was “the largest amount spent by any jurisdiction in North America or Europe on a film tax credit in a single year.”
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