Hollywood South: Atlanta touts success of film industry

The Mayor’s Office of Entertainment marked its first year of operation by announcing that more than 100 television, commercial and film productions were filmed in the City of Atlanta from July 2013 to July 2014. In addition, more than 580 permits were issued which generated approximately $500,000.

Last year, Mayor Kasim Reed established the Office of Entertainment to support the city’s rapidly expanding film industry by streamlining the city’s permitting process for film productions, facilitating employment of local talent, creating production-related educational and training opportunities, and providing residents and businesses affected by film productions with information and protection.

In 2008, the state enacted the Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act, which increased the state tax credit to 30 percent for qualified production of motion pictures, television series, commercials, music videos, interactive games and animation. Since then, the state and city have been a destination for the film industry.

“The impressive roster of films and television shows produced in the city, including The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, Fast and Furious 7, and The Walking Dead, is proof that a growing number of companies are seeking Atlanta as the backdrop for their highly anticipated productions,” said Office of Entertainment Director LaRonda Sutton. “The Office of Entertainment is proud of the many accomplishments made during its first year, and we look forward to supporting the continued success of the production and entertainment industry in Atlanta.”

To accommodate the growing list of productions in the city, the Office of Entertainment has partnered with Tampa-based FilmApp LLC, to launch the city’s use of the FilmApp tool, which streamlines the permit application process for production companies and independent producers. The previous process required applicants to obtain separate approvals from various city departments. Now, applicants can apply online and avoid the lengthy multi-step process. The FilmApp tool also allows for the Office of Entertainment to effectively communicate with residents and businesses during times of filming. For more information about FilmApp, visit www.filmapp.com.

Atlanta’s television and film industry currently employs more than 6,000 individuals and is forecasted to support thousands of more jobs in the near future due to the increasing number of production companies conducting business here. In August, Tyler Perry entered into a tentative agreement to expand his production operations on 330 acres of former Fort McPherson. The $30 million deal is expected to add more than 8,000 new jobs.