New Ernst & Young LLP Report Discusses Studies of State Film Tax Credits

STUDIES OF FILM TAX CREDITS SHOW ECONOMIC BENEFITS FOR STATES

(New York, NY) A study released today by Ernst & Young LLP outlines the economic benefits of film production tax incentives for states and analyzes the most effective framework for evaluating the economic success of film incentive programs. The study examines the objectives of film credit programs, explains the methodologies used to estimate the economic benefits of film credit programs and discusses the approaches used to analyze the film credits in a number of recent state studies of the effectiveness of film credits. Film credits are currently in use in 37 states.

"The primary benefits of film credits to state residents are increased employment and higher incomes generated by film production activities," said Robert Cline, Ernst & Young LLP's National Director of State and Local Tax Policy Economics. "However, the economic benefits to residents extend beyond the production activities themselves and include increased activity by suppliers to the film industry and increased consumer spending from higher incomes.".. more

Florida Film Network General Meeting
(Tampa, FL) The newly formed Florida Film Network, based in the Tampa Bay Area, will hold its first General Meeting on Wednesday, May 23 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Art Institute of Tampa, 4401 N. Himes Avenue in the atrium. FFN President Daniel Brienza said that all consecutive General Meetings will be held at that location and time on the fourth Wednesday of every month. The new organization plans to have a production website up shortly that will list actors and crew available throughout Florida. It also will feature film contests, offer exclusive casting calls, industry workshops and seminars for its growing membership. more...

LIGHTS, CAMERA, FILM…SUMMER CAMP
(Miami, FL) Florida Film Institute (FFI) is excited to announce a summer partnership for the second year with the Coral Gables Cinemateque (CGC). CINEMA, a film education summer camp will be held at the CGC’s Coral Gables Art Cinema , located at 260 Aragon Avenue in Coral Gables , from June 18 to July 25, 2012. Up to 20 high school students are invited to attend the workshops that meet on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00am to 1:00pm. FFI will give students the opportunity to focus on essential and practical aspects of commercial motion picture production, including script preparation, cinematography, lighting, sound recording, directing, acting and music. The program will feature instruction by South Florida Film Industry professionals, and will also include a beginners Yoga class for students. At the end of the session, participants will showcase their film at the theatre. more...

COMPASS ENGAGES GOMEZ BARKER ASSOCIATES
(Miami, FL) The Congress of Motion Picture Associations of Florida (COMPASS) has entered into an agreement with Miami-based Gomez Barker Associates, a widely-known government relations and public affairs consulting firm, to provide professional guidance and support in the effort to increase Florida-based scripted motion picture production. Gomez Barker Associates currently develops and implements insightful and winning strategies for over thirty private sector organizations and public entities. Founded in 1987 by its president, Fausto B. Gomez, the firm maintains offices year-round in Miami and Tallahassee and provides a statewide reach while retaining a tradition of highly personalized service. Mr. Gomez stated: “My associates and I are pleased to guide and represent COMPASS in its interactions with state and local policy-makers to ensure that Florida is at the forefront of television and motion picture production. We are talking about good jobs and economic development.” more...

2012 FLORIDA FILM FESTIVAL SERVES UP THE BEST OF INTERNATIONAL CINEMA
(Orlando, FL) Where can you catch films from Denmark, Japan, Norway, and the United Kingdom all in one stop? The 2012 Florida Film Festival, sponsored by Full Sail University, is serving up an entertaining selection of international feature films that transcend cultural barriers. From heartwarming to hilarious, the 2012 International Showcase announced today includes an outrageous adventure, a moving tale of childhood wishes, a sexually-charged coming-of-age comedy, and a darkly witty take on the afterlife. With two Southeast premieres, one East Coast premiere, and one Florida premiere, this year’s Festival, April 13-22, is offering the best in current foreign cinema to audiences in Central Florida. more...