Elected officials have pointed to billions in direct and indirect economic activity generated by the industry — Gov. Nathan Deal’s office estimated film and television production generated some $9.5 billion in economic development during fiscal 2017.
The five-day Thanksgiving holiday take was $71.2 million. Coco, which features the voices of Gael García Bernal, Anthony Gonzalez, and Benjamin Bratt, is about a boy in a Mexican village who travels to the underworld after defying his family’s wishes and playing a magical guitar on Dia de los Muertos.
We created this new annual event because — out of more than 100 professionally focused degree programs at SCAD — animation is by far our most popular major, followed by fashion, film and television, graphic design, and illustration.
The scene was for the TV show “Hap & Leonard,” which is now filming its third season. The show is based on a series of novels by Joe Lansdale, and is currently the highest rated program on Sundance TV.
It’s Firestone’s job to know Georgia – its landscape and attractions, its highways, its small town squares – so when productions come looking for viable places to shoot, he’s ready with a few suggestions.
“Coco” opened in U.S. theaters last week. It was first released in Mexico and, according to some reports, enough people asked for the film to be released in Spanish that Pixar decided to offer either Spanish-dubbed versions or screenings with Spanish subtitles in the U.S.
“The festival mission is to allow student and emerging filmmakers a chance to have their work showcased at a venue where professionals and peers are present to evaluate their talent and vision,” shared Nancy Howard, BigPictureCon Executive Producer.
“We want to teach and support a new generation of Georgians with a practical hands on approach to learn independent filmmaking from beginning to end. “ Beard said.
Like many people, Sara was a fan of the movies. But what she really enjoyed was getting a peak at behind-the-scenes footage of the people who create films. Film production was her dream but opportunities were scarce in her hometown of St. Simons Island so she pursued graphic design instead.
he MPAA applauds Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-UT) and members of the Senate Finance Committee for their passage of legislation that will fundamentally reform America’s tax code.
Moderated by Bruce Cohen (Producer, Silver Linings Playbook, Rebel in the Rye), the panelists explored the synergies that were created while working on each of their films.
Therefore, coming up with a new concept each year to keep it fresh and current with our goals and with the market trends is an important and somewhat challenging task. We have several brainstorming sessions, but our director Jason Sirotin came up with the winning concept this year.
The re:imagine/COMMUNITY program has been implemented in six Atlanta Public and Dekalb County Schools since 2015. The program recently received the Corporate Volunteerism Council 2017 IMPACT Award for engaging skills-based volunteers from 11Alive and FOCUS Brands at Grady High School.
University staff soon realized the dated features and general wear and tear of the buildings on Briarcliff campus made research and laboratory work difficult and expensive. They chose to use the space as extra storage instead.
On Monday, Nov. 13, Backstage.com put out a casting call for extras to appear in the series, which was expected to shoot Nov. 20, 21, 29, or Dec. 7 in Atlanta, Ga. Extras are being paid $100 for eight hours of work, plus overtime.
Industry professionals helped GFA create the standardized film curriculum for high school students. GFA will provide professional-grade equipment to Riverwood so Futrell can teach students the curriculum.
These guys just do straight quality work. This is one of the best reels we have seen. Note that the stuntman in this is from the Spiderman movies. Great timing and illustration of quality work leaving the viewer wanting more.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year!…for holiday movies, we mean. Come November, your television is full of commercials for box office and small screen films set around Christmas and other winter holidays
In its second week of release Thor: Ragnarok took again first place on the US box office chart with $56.6 million, while second place belonged to newly opened Daddy’s Home 2.
Nicole Holt is over Zoe’s Kitchen in most of Georgia. She talks about what fresh means to the company and how that difference is unique.
The University of Georgia’s esports team won both the Brawlhalla and Paladins championships at the Georgia Esports League state championships Oct. 8.
Joseph Cross will make his directorial debut on the indie drama “Summer Night.” “The Spectacular Now” helmer James Ponsoldt will produce the film. It just wrapped in Coweta County.
A film starting Ryan Gosling is scheduled to shoot in Central Georgia next week. According to a permit from the City of Perry the movie, “First Man” will film scenes Nov. 20-21 near the Georgia National Fairgrounds.
“The MPAA looks forward to continued work with Rep. Goodlatte to advance American creativity in the 115th Congress, and we wish him luck in his future endeavors.”
NY Assemblyman John McDonald is pushing a $50 million tax credit program for the video game industry in New York state, and he is hoping that if adopted as part of next year’s budget that it could help grow an industry that has taken hold.
Casey Corporate Transportation (CCT) has found a new niche that takes its fleet of cars beyond the business traveler to wrap parties, celebrity airport runs and other chauffeur services that require discretion.
In Georgia, the award-winning film was shown on the big screen at the AMC Classic Fort Benning 10 in Columbus, AMC Colonial 18 in Lawrenceville and the Mall of Georgia Stadium 20 in Buford.
From March 29th through April 14th, 2018, venues throughout Savannah’s Historic District will be filled with the extensive concerts, recitals, dance parties, film, theatrical and multi-disciplinary productions that make up the 29th edition of the Savannah Music Festival (SMF).
Todd Fischer and Ashley Cambron, familiar faces at various Atlanta area studios and film sets since their arrival in Georgia this year, were indicted on theft charges in Indiana earlier this month.
Bad Blood: The Movie is the feature film directorial debut of Atlanta native Tim Reis, who has previously directed music videos. The horror film explores the largely uncharted werefrog.
Rome’s mayor and city manager is here, as well as several members of the business community. There are even look-alikes of the characters from one of Reynolds’ most famous films, “Smokey and the Bandit”.
Thanks to the state’s competitive production incentive program, our industry will continue to film on location in Massachusetts, creating high-paying jobs, generating revenue for the state, and driving economic growth.
As Governor Nathan Deal stated, “I am confident that the efforts of state industry leaders, community partners and the people of Georgia will help us maintain this momentum for many years to come.”
One new trend in gaming that is changing things is the early access model. Games can be announced and released before they are even finished–and this can be extremely lucrative.
Bryan is one of the owners of Cinema Greens. They recently launched a retail location in Atlanta to serve decorators that may not be able to physically visit their full spread in Hampton.
This award recognizes Sonesta as having an elite meeting/conference/event planning staff matched with a superior venue and dining options that make every event a memorable one.
“We’re working towards a resolution,” Jacoby said. “I can’t really go into it right now. I would still like to do [the development], but it’s a little more complicated than that.”
What’s challenging for film companies wanting to come to Athens, Montgomery said, is that shooting is difficult in the fall, when weekends see hotels, restaurants and roads crowded with UGA football fans.
Founded in 2003, Complexity is one of America’s premier and original esports organizations. Owned and operated by industry veterans Jason Lake and Jason Bass, this brand has been a mainstay of the esports space since its formation having won over 130 championships in 26 different competitive titles.
The International Federation of Actors (FIA) Executive Committee has unanimously approved a declaration on sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation in the entertainment and media industries.
Industry analysts and Disney/Marvel execs were predicting a $100 million opening after Thursday’s preview showings but strong word of mouth and overwhelmingly positive reviews pushed the Chris Hemsworth led film to $121 million.
Charlotte is the Creative Development and Workforce Coordinator for the Georgia Film Academy. She works with directors and writers to help facilitate homegrown projects.
Jennifer Hall explains how MatchKey Consulting works with clients to navigate the various issues faced by entertainment professionals as they navigate projects to completion.
The drama was produced by Sara Sometti Michaels, Srdjan Stakic and Tara Ansley, and was executive produced by Kevin Traier, Rick Le and Seth Michaels.
“Film and television production in Georgia has increased exponentially over the past 30 years,” said Dr. Stas Preczewski, president of GGC.
Lynn is President of Williams, Turner and Mathis. She talks about Professional Media Liability coverage (E&O) and when you should seek such coverage.
By building on this common foundation, we can bring audiences around the world more of the content they love. We can continue to create jobs and drive economic growth.
This two day, bootcamp-style Production Assistant workshop is perfect for those just starting their career in the industry as well as those looking to advance their knowledge of what it takes to succeed as an office or on-set production assistant working on commercials, industrials, music videos, independent films, television series and studio features.
The film introduces the viewer to backyard chicken owners and local residents who were forced to get rid of their backyard flocks. It explores the implications of the chicken ban legislations and re-frames the issue as it relates to food security and sustainability.
“The tourism industry is a vital economic engine for Georgia, as it generated a record-breaking $60.8 billion in economic impact and provided employment for more than 450,000 Georgians last year.”
“We thought Savannah has a much different menu of architectural choices, which it does, and there is so much fantastic history here.”
Join us at the Havana Club for heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, casino games & entertainment, music and remarks by special guests from Georgia’s film & television community.
Jeff Weinkle of Aprio talks about a recent client that was engaged in production work but was not taking advantage of all the tax benefits that are available.
The assumption, then, is that whether you’re Muslim or not, born in America or not, so long as you look like the profile of a ‘terrorist’, that must mean you’re also capable of barbaric acts. However, horrifically tragic acts such as the killing of two bystanders in Portland who tried to defend two young Muslim women.
From the opening shot of twinkling dogtags and quick change to war and families in emotional turmoil, Thank You For Your Service brought to light the harrowing experiences of PTSD and the harsh realities of servicemen returning to a less-than welcoming home country.
The network has been taping episodes at Bridals by Lori in Sandy Springs since May and new episodes will begin airing in 2018, according to owner Lori Allen.
“The tax incentive is what changed everything for the state,” Craig Dominey, manager of Georgia’s “Camera Ready” program, recently told a small group of people in a forum sponsored by Letterbox Legal of Athens and presented by the University of Georgia’s student Sports and Entertainment Law Society.
The fest was launched by SCAD founder and president Paula Wallace, who says, “SCAD knows film. And when we say ‘film,’ we’re really talking about dozens of creative professions! Each with its own identity.
The SCAD Savannah Film Festival kicked off Saturday, Oct. 28, with screenings of some of the year’s most anticipated blockbusters and Oscar contenders as well as special honors presented to some of Hollywood’s brightest stars and legends.
A capacity crowd of VIPs gathered for the Georgia Entertainment 101 event this week. It was an evening of networking, but also a time to celebrate Georgia’s dynamic entertainment industry and the diverse businesses that make up the industry.
“They thought it was real. We’re still waiting for a quote from them saying our marijuana plants are so realistic looking we fooled the DEA.” Bryan McBrien
MacKinnon will report to Rivkin and oversee the MPAA’s government relations portfolio and policy agenda. She will join the MPAA on November 13, 2017.
“The CINEMA project is an innovative solution to two pressing challenges facing Georgia today: The growing number of young people who are disconnected from work and education and the need for a trained labor force,” said Brian Williams, Crim Center director.
The proposed rules detail procedures for the two agencies to work together. An applicant will first apply to the GDEcD for pre-certification, then the applicant will be able to apply to the DOR to be assigned a place in the queue for the music tax credit.
As huge Stranger Things fans, Creative Mammals created a passion project recapping some favorite moments from Season 1 in celebration of Season 2. Season 2 comes out today. Bare Knuckles Creative teamed up on post audio to bring the world we created to life.
The board, which consists of those in the film, music and the digital industry, works with the Governor and the state’s Georgia Department of Economic Development to further expand those industries in the state.
Kennesaw eSports currently has more than 400 members and hosts three game nights every month. They also host a different tournament every month to give students a chance to compete.
External affiliates, including WorldViz, Trick3d, Bark Bark, Second Story, Dream Collection Agency and Works in Progress, demonstrated a range of projects in various stages of public/private collaboration orchestrated by Elizabeth Strickler, director of media entrepreneurship and innovation.
Xscape: Still Kickin’ It, a documentary series that follows the four original members of the reunited Atlanta-born R&B group as they make their return to the stage after nearly 20 years apart, will premiere on the Bravo network on Sunday, November 5th.
Teams from across the state participated in online matches leading up to the finals. The final lineup included: the University of Georgia, Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University, SCAD-Atlanta, Wiregrass Technical College, Georgia Piedmont Technical College and the Art Institute of Atlanta.
Nicole’s entry into Georgia’s film industry came when she was approached about using one of her animals in a role for a small film. She trained and brought the deer to the set and everything just started to click.
Georgia’s tax credits were better than California’s, Mr. Hamilton said, which drove Mr. Mehta’s film, “Simran”, to a state whose status as the No. 1 destination for feature films in the U.S. has spawned a new moniker: “Y’allywood.”
“One thing that Savannah’s done that’s really helped put them on the map is they started an additional incentive, in addition to what the state has.” Lee Thomas
“Video games comprise a 75-billion-dollar global industry, a macrocosm of creative demand and opportunity. The launch of our latest alumni atelier, SCAD+, directly addresses the demand for creative content paired with sophisticated technology.” – Paula Wallace
The Georgia Entertainment 101 event will be held on October 25th as an invite-only affair. The sold out event will include the who’s who of finance, legal, banking along with studio executives, producers and government officials. The event is at capacity. Confirmations and instructions for attending will be sent to those who have RSVPed.
“When we heard the need for a promotional video, I immediately knew that my students could deliver the project based on what we have been learning in class.”
Kyra’s goal with The Prince is to open people’s minds, show them that the racial divide in today’s world is real and also that both bystanders and victims of overt racism can-and do-have a voice.
To mark this centennial anniversary, the University of North Georgia (UNG) will sponsor a World War I Film Festival thanks to a grant from the Georgia Humanities.
The ensemble includes two Grammy-nominated musicians in Sammy Miller (drums) and Alphonso Horne (trumpet), with members who have performed or recorded with artists ranging from Wynton Marsalis to Iron & Wine.
Emory alumnus Nikoloz Kevkhishvili, writer and director of the new film “In Her Image,” has collaborated with Richard Prior, director of performance studies and conductor of the Emory Symphony Orchestra, and Paul Bhasin, director of wind studies and conductor of the Emory Wind Ensemble, to bring his movie to life.
Jason Brown, a Valdosta State University assistant professor, said he is working toward having a “right and proper” film festival in town. Previously, VSU has done smaller 48-hour film festival events, where films are made in 48 hours and then shown. Brown said he wanted to do something bigger.
Republican Matt Shaheen, who represents Texas House of Representatives District 66, called for the abolishment of the Texas Film Commission.
According to casting representatives, they are looking for several extras to be a part of the film. They are casting for construction workers for three days (10/25-10/27), funeral guests for one day (10/24), and funeral guests with cars from 1980-1992 (10/24).
“There are many socials that take place in the industry, but our partners suggested a very targeted and strategic networking event,” said Randy Davidson, President of Georgia Entertainment News. “We have state legislators, studio executives and well-known producers slated to attend this intimate gathering.”
Today David talks about ways Georgia can become a major player in commercial video work. Other states have an advantage of tradition but the case for completing commercials here is strong.
“Arts education is a powerful tool to transfer knowledge and cultivate in Georgia’s students the hard and soft skills that position them for success in all sectors of the global economy, and aspects of their adult life,” said Karen Paty, executive director of Georgia Council for the Arts.
“This is wonderful news for Wilmington,” said Bill Vassar, executive VP at EUE/Screen Gems Studios, a 10-stage production complex based in that North Carolina city.
While Thomasville may not become Hollywood South overnight, the curtain could be rising on the area’s chances on becoming a film mecca.
“Music is an integral part of film. And yet there aren’t many events in Atlanta that bring the two industries together in a meaningful way. The beauty of the ATLARGE Music Film Festival is that it creates an opportunity to bring both music and film creators and talent together seamlessly.”
Griffin points to Michigan’s 42 percent tax credit. It failed two years ago because it was too expensive to bring workers to the state, and, she said, Michigan winters didn’t help.
Aaron Cooley owns Atlanta Sound Guy. Today he talks about trends he has observed working on movie sets – not that he agrees with them all.
Five “hubs” were already planned for the 90-acre site, which as of July 2017 was owned by a family trust and under contract. Founders Studios did not specify where the other 110 acres were located or whether they are under contract.
Right now, there is no NCAA for esports, even though competitive gaming is expanding quickly on college campuses. Last year, 40 colleges established “varsity” esports programs, meaning they hired a full-time coach and staff members.
Coming in first is always the goal for a new release but sometimes winning is not enough. Sony’s Blade Runner 2049, a sequel to Ridley Scott’s historic 1982 Sci-Fi masterpiece, opened at home this weekend to an unspectacular $31.5 million.
During our time together, Bethea and Waters share their experiences, triumphs and focus on pure storytelling and growing the independent film market within Georgia’s entertainment arena, bringing a wealth of experience and accolades with them from LA.
According to documents from the city, they specifically looks to create a permit process for professional filming, safety standards and requirements, insurance requirements, location agreement language, and what a production will be required to pay for, like using city water for instance.
The next action-packed Savannah Film Alliance meeting will be held November 9, 2017 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Savannah Tech.
“The new DeKalb Entertainment Commission will be about making connections, building collaboration and creating amazing content,” said DeKalb Entertainment Commission Chair Andrew Greenberg.
Richard Gere, Zoey Deutch, Mariska Hargitay, Ashley Judd, Kyra Sedgwick, Andrea Riseborough and Willow Shields among honorees.
“No single individual has left a greater mark on Georgia’s film industry than Burt Reynolds,” said RIFF Executive Director Cameron McAllister. “Mr. Reynolds is an absolute icon in every sense of the word and we are so privileged to be able to bring him to RIFF.”