The film industry landscape is witnessing a significant shift, with Georgia emerging as a formidable contender against the long-reigning champion, California. For decades, Hollywood has been synonymous with movie magic, but recent years have seen a dramatic rise in Georgia’s film production, fueled by attractive tax incentives and burgeoning infrastructure. This article delves into a comparative analysis of the film industry in Georgia versus California, exploring the factors driving Georgia’s growth and what this means for the future of filmmaking.
Georgia’s Ascendancy in Film Production
Georgia’s ascent in the film industry is nothing short of remarkable. A recent report from the Georgia Department of Economic Development reveals that film and TV productions spent a staggering $4.1 billion in the state in the last fiscal year. This figure is supported by the impressive number of 390 productions hosted in Georgia, encompassing a diverse range from feature films and independent projects to television series, commercials, and music videos. This robust activity underscores Georgia’s growing appeal as a filming destination.
One of the key indicators of Georgia’s industry maturity is its rapid expansion of soundstage space. Having already surpassed New York, Georgia is projected to overtake California by 2027 in this critical infrastructure aspect. From a modest 45,000 square feet in 2010, Georgia’s soundstage space is anticipated to reach an impressive 7 million square feet by 2025. This explosive growth is further evidenced by the $1.3 billion in film-related capital investment in Georgia between 2012 and 2022, and studios are planning an additional $2.9 billion in construction between 2023 and 2027.
Kelsey Moore, Executive Director of the Georgia Screen Entertainment Coalition, emphasizes the pivotal role of the state’s film tax credit in this transformation. She argues that the tax credit has successfully positioned Georgia as a premier global filming location, benefiting not only the film industry but also numerous local businesses and residents. The influx of billions of dollars has stimulated various sectors within Georgia, from lumber and lighting suppliers to transportation, catering, and hospitality services, creating thousands of jobs for Georgians.
Regis Harrington, owner of Covert Camera Vehicles in Fayetteville, Georgia, who relocated to the state four years ago, echoes this sentiment. He highlights that Georgia has become the epicenter for film and movie production, providing fulfilling career opportunities for Georgians and building a robust industry infrastructure that extends far beyond temporary productions.
California’s Enduring Legacy and Evolving Challenges
While Georgia’s rise is undeniable, California remains a dominant force in the film industry, carrying the weight of Hollywood’s historical significance and established infrastructure. However, the escalating cost of production in California, coupled with increasing competition from states like Georgia offering lucrative tax incentives, presents significant challenges.
The debate surrounding film tax credits is ongoing, with some economists like State Economist Jeffrey Dorfman suggesting a reevaluation of Georgia’s film tax credit. The concern is whether these incentives are the most effective use of state funds. However, industry advocates like Kelsey Moore caution against reducing or revoking these credits, pointing to the experiences of states like Louisiana, North Carolina, and Florida. These states previously had thriving film industries but saw significant declines after altering their tax incentives, ultimately harming local residents and economies that benefited from film production.
Comparative Advantages and the Future Landscape
The comparison between Georgia and California’s film industries boils down to a few key factors: cost-effectiveness, infrastructure development, and long-term industry sustainability. Georgia’s primary advantage lies in its generous tax incentives, making it significantly more affordable to produce films and television shows compared to California. This cost saving is a major draw for production companies looking to maximize their budgets. Furthermore, Georgia is rapidly building its infrastructure, particularly soundstage space, to accommodate the growing demand.
California, on the other hand, boasts a deeply entrenched industry ecosystem, a vast talent pool, and a diverse range of filming locations. However, its higher costs and increasing competition necessitate a strategic adaptation to maintain its leading position.
The film industry is dynamic and constantly evolving. While Georgia is aggressively attracting productions and building its industry, California’s historical dominance and comprehensive industry network remain significant assets. The future likely holds a more geographically diverse film industry landscape, with Georgia continuing to grow as a major hub, potentially alongside a transformed and resilient California film sector that adapts to the changing economic realities of film production. The ongoing discussion around tax incentives and infrastructure investment will undoubtedly shape the competitive balance between these two film industry giants.
