Georgia’s burgeoning place in the television and movie industry continues to draw attention from around the country. And with the recently passed tax credits for post-production work, that allure might be about to intensify.
As widely reported by the state and various movie-watching publications, there were 245 film and TV projects in Georgia from mid-2015-2016 with $2.02 billion spent on production and a total of $7.02 billion in economic impact, according to the Ga. Film, Music & Digital Entertainment Office.
That compares to $933.9 million spent in fiscal year 2013 with an economic impact of $3.3 billion, according to AdWeek.com.
Closer to home, Pinewood Atlanta Studios in Fayetteville is home to the largest production complex outside Hollywood and is the continuing site for Marvel Studios blockbusters. Following closely later this month will be the first residential lots sold at the Pinewood Forrest development situated across Veterans Parkway from the studio lot.
A stone’s throw away in Senoia, a history of movie-making over the years gave way to the long-running “The Walking Dead.” Combined with innovative downtown development, Senoia has become a destination all its own.
What might likely add to production expenditures and payroll is a 20-percent tax credit for qualifying post-production companies. The legislation passed the House and Senate and awaits Gov. Nathan Deal’s signature.
Qualifying post-production companies would be required to spend a minimum $500,000 in Georgia per tax year and carry a payroll of a minimum of $250,000.
Post-production notwithstanding, Georgia currently ranks third in the nation, behind California and New York, for the number of television and movie productions.
