Georgia’s $9.5 billion movie business began with Burt Reynolds, a canoe trip on the Chattooga River, and a governor who saw great potential.
Noting the success of 1972’s “Deliverance,” Gov. Jimmy Carter created the state’s film commission in 1973, and, more importantly, kicked-off a tradition of “can do” in Georgia.
Even before the state began luring filmmakers with tax credits, it worked to provide movie companies what they needed. “We went out and stole street signs one night,” said Norman Bielowicz, who was head of the film commission from 1981 to 1998. “We needed them!”
As Bielowicz spoke, he walked past a mannequin dressed as Captain America, a golden Oscar trophy, and other artifacts on display at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library. See more at AJC.
