Georgia’s film industry finds itself in choppy waters as it continues to bounce back from a pair of 2023 writers’ and actors’ strikes that put a pause on projects nationwide. Even with those strikes resolved, production statewide remains below pre-pandemic levels, and while industry professionals hope for a bounce back in 2025 there are other issues afoot.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom fired a broadside at Georgia this week when he unveiled a plan to massively increase his state’s cap on its film tax incentive program from $330 million to $750 million annually in an effort to wrench back tv and film productions from its new Southern rival.
Georgia’s program is uncapped, (though legislators have pondered capping it during recent legislative sessions) but has gone over $1 billion in recent years. It is the state’s largest corporate incentive.
“I don’t know how they can continue to afford that program, but we’ll see. We’ll see how long that lasts down in Georgia,” Newsom said. “But I will say, compare the values of this state to the values as it relates to workers and women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, civil rights, voting rights down in the state of Georgia,” Newsom said during a news conference Sunday. “I think it’s a pretty damn easy decision.” Shots fired.
Amidst a rough patch for the industry, the state’s preeminent advocacy group in the “creative economy” space is getting a new look as the Georgia Studio & Infrastructure Alliance rebrands to the B.I.G. Entertainment Network. Whether that acronym stands for “Based in Georgia,” “Building Infrastructure in Georgia,” or “Businesses Investing in Georgia,” (or all of the above) the rebrand marks an evolution of a key group keeping up with the times in an ever-evolving industry.
“As Georgia’s entertainment economy continues to evolve, so do we,” says Misty Holcomb, founder & vice president, government relations. “This rebranding marks an exciting new chapter for us, as we expand our reach across the state and deepen our partnerships with local businesses and communities. We have also grown our team, bringing in Matt Campbell and Tucker Green, two influential executives who share the same passion for the future of our state. By combining with the Coastal Entertainment Alliance and other groups from across the state, B.I.G. is positioned to help facilitate the anticipated growth of Georgia’s entertainment sector. Our goal is to foster sustainable growth, create more jobs, and ensure Georgia remains a top destination for creative industries.”
B.I.G. advocates for every facet of the state’s film industry, from stage and lighting to post-production to catering and transportation vendors. Even in a down year in 2024 there has been $2.6 billion of direct spending in the state from film and television productions. And even between strikes or California competition, B.I.G. is looking to make sure that the Hollywood of the South keeps the train rolling as Georgia secures its place in the creative industries.
