January 7, 2011
Here is a summary of incentives in some of the more popular locations, with commentary about what to expect in 2011. This is by no means a comprehensive list - just a look at some changes or concerns about various programs.
ARIZONA- Allowed its program to sunset last week. Legislation has been discussed to create a new, possibly refundable tax credit but there is nothing in place yet.
CONNECTICUT - The new Pacifica Studio is under construction, with an anticipated completion later this year A ninety episode series for Revolution is being produced in the state.
WASHINGTON, DC - The Director of the Washington DC Office of Motion Picture and Television Development, Kathy Hollinger, was replaced with former Director, Crystal Palmer.
GEORGIA - No changes planned, as Georgia has become an important production hub for series, features and commercials. However buying services continue to be restricted.
FLORIDA - Has a new transferable tax credit of 20%; however, only resident cast and crew qualifies. Florida has 35mm processing labs, substantial crew, sound stages, equipment rentals, post production, and a decent talent base. There is a yearly cap, but if the current allocation is exhausted, the state will award next year's credits. But note that if you get 2012 credits, they can't be used until 2012.
LOUISIANA - This continues to be the most popular state for production, excluding New York and California, for good reason. The program has been around a long time, the rules are very specific, there are three major sound stage complexes, a lab, a decent talent pool, and a growing crew base. There is a ready market for the tax credits, plus the state will redeem them at 85 cents, which allows banks to lend against the credits.
MASSACHUSETTS - We're waiting to see who the new commissioner will be. Director Nick Paleologos was dismissed when the Massachusetts Film Office became part of the Tourism department. Nick fought tirelessly (and effectively) for a good program, and hopefully his successor will be announced soon.
MICHIGAN - A lot of producers are concerned about Michigan - does the state have money to cover their obligations, and will the regulations change? Thus far, Michigan has not changed its incentive, but regulations must be followed to the letter. Michigan requires a major pre-audit of the applications; e.g., if you estimate 32 filming days, and you shoot 29, you need to provide an explanation for the change.
Buying services are a red flag to the state; it is possible to use them, but the rules are very strict. However, Michgan is still a top incentives state.
NEW MEXICO - Commissioner Lisa Strout has resigned, a casualty of the change in administrations. The rest of the film staff remains in place.
OHIO - As reported in our recent Alert, the Ohio commission staff has resigned; however, we do not expect this to seriously impact the program, assuming that a new commissioner is in place fairly soon. In addition to local commissions in Cleveland and Cincinnati, there is also a film commission in Columbus.
TEXAS - The commissioner resigned in December; his interim replacement is former entertainment lawyer, Evan Fitzmaurice. We don't anticipate changes in the program. However, the rejection of Robert Rodriguez's "Machete" after release, despite the project being approved in advance, could have a very chilling effect on the program for producers and lenders.
A.
www.chicas-productions.com
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