Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Filmmakers Flock To Forum On State Tax Credits

From LATimes.com:

Question: How do you pack a theater with jaded movie industry professionals?

Answer: Show them the latest hot information on film tax credits. Nearly 200 people crammed into an auditorium at the Landmark Theatre in West Los Angeles recently to learn the latest skinny on the kind of topic that would set an accountant's heart aflutter.

The filmmakers, production executives and bankers were attending the Spring Fling Production Incentives Symposium, hosted by the aptly named Incentives Office, a Los Angeles firm that helps filmmakers and lenders navigate the welter of tax credits and rebates.

Despite the economic downturn that has left many states with staggering deficits, the across-the-country rollback in state tax incentives that some anticipated has yet to occur. Although some states have reduced or even suspended their programs, others, such as Florida, have greatly expanded their programs. More than 40 states still offer some form of financial enticement to filmmakers.

"The fact that these states are continuing their programs is an indication they are working," said Jeff Begun, a partner in the Incentives Office.