In this roller coaster economy, going to the movies is still one of America’s favorite budget saving entertainment options. Families are finding themselves opting for a “staycation” and budgeting the wallet by staying local and catching the latest flic.
Lucky for us, filmmakers know how eager the public is to laugh, cry, and feel the adrenalin pumping through the surround sound. They don’t hesitate to set up production of all types and sizes across the states, even in our own backyard.
Filmmakers utilize the breath taking views and landscapes across America, but as the general public watches the almighty dollar, so do filmmakers. In the July issue of Production Update Magazine (aka P3), a monthly internationally-distributed trade publication that educates industry professionals, two New England states made the annual “Top Ten” places for film production. How wicked awesome is that?
Massachusetts was among the “Top Ten” in this year’s annual issue with its 25% film tax credit. Last year alone, filmmakers were lining up to get into the Bay State. According to the MFO (Massachusetts Film Office), “Massachusetts is … the only state in the country that allows filmmakers to take their credits either as a direct rebate at 90 percent of the face value (guaranteed) or to sell them at market rate — whichever is more favorable.… Beginning with the start of pre-production and continuing for a period of 12 months, filmmakers will be eligible for 100-percent sales-tax exemption on any production-related items purchased in the state.” And to think it was only a few months ago when we rallied at hearing 3854, when the governor flirted with the idea to cap the credit. Massachusetts also was highlighted in the “Top Ten” MovieMaker Magazine this past January.
With 3.4 million residents, making it the 4th most densely populated state, Connecticut is the other New England state represented in this year’s hot “Top Ten” places for film production in P3. The bordering state one-ups Mass. with a 30% film tax credit. Conn Digital Media & Motion Picture Tax Credit provides eligible production companies with a sliding-scale tax credit of up to 30 percent on qualified digital media and motion picture productions, pre-production and post-production expenses incurred in the state. “Connecticut film-industry spending for current yield 2009 was $117 million,” George Norfleet, director of the Connecticut Office of Film, Television & Digital Media, tells P3 magazine. “Over the past three years we have seen a demonstrable uptick in film production activity here in Connecticut, resulting in $800 million in film production spending. Filmmakers are most definitely coming here, creating jobs, spending money and contributing to the continued growth of the sector.”
New England will surely remain a contender for filmmakers to come shine bright lights along the coast. The other eight states that made the annual list include; Cali, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, New Mexico, & Utah.
What’s your favorite flic shot in Hollywood East?
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Grown Ups was my favorite movie made in New England so far.