Atlanta has long been known as the “Hollywood of the South,” with its picturesque landscapes, diverse locations, and generous tax incentives drawing in film productions from around the world. However, in recent years, the city’s film industry has been taking Hollywood by storm, with a growing number of major studios setting up shop in Atlanta and more and more big-budget films and TV shows being filmed in the city.
One of the reasons behind Atlanta’s rise as a film industry powerhouse is the state’s generous film tax credit program. Georgia offers a 20% tax credit for productions that spend more than $500,000 in the state, with an additional 10% bonus for including the Georgia logo in the credits. This, coupled with the state’s lower cost of living and abundance of talented cast and crew members, has made Atlanta an attractive destination for filmmakers looking to stretch their production budgets.
One of the biggest studios to set up shop in Atlanta is Pinewood Atlanta Studios, a state-of-the-art facility that boasts 18 sound stages and over 400 acres of backlot space. Pinewood Atlanta has played host to a number of blockbuster films, including “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” and “Ant-Man and The Wasp.” The studio has also attracted major TV shows like “The Walking Dead,” “Stranger Things,” and “Ozark.”
In addition to studios like Pinewood Atlanta, the city is also home to a number of independent production companies and post-production facilities that cater to a wide range of projects, from indie films to commercials. Atlanta has a deep pool of talented actors, directors, writers, and crew members, many of whom have relocated from other major film hubs like Los Angeles and New York City.
The city’s diverse locations have also been a major draw for filmmakers. Atlanta’s skyline can easily stand in for New York City or Chicago, while the surrounding countryside can double for the mountains of Colorado or the swamps of Louisiana. The city’s historic neighborhoods, modern architecture, and natural beauty offer a wide range of options for filmmakers looking to add depth and authenticity to their projects.
Overall, Atlanta’s film industry is booming, with no signs of slowing down anytime soon. The city’s combination of tax incentives, state-of-the-art facilities, talented workforce, and diverse locations have made it a true force to be reckoned with in the world of filmmaking. With more and more studios choosing Atlanta as a filming destination, it’s clear that the city’s star is on the rise in the film industry, and Hollywood is taking notice.