Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Philadelphia -- 15th best moviemaking city


MovieMaker magazine has come out with its annual list of the top U.S. metropoli to go -- and live -- if you want to make movies. Top three (out of 25) this year: Chicago, Atlanta and New York, in that order.
So, whither Philadelphia?
Well, down there in the middle, at 15, right between Portland (OR), and Sedona (AZ).

Here's what the mag says:
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Recent Filmography: Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Marley & Me, The Lovely Bones Key Incentive: 25% transferable tax credit • Truth be told, Philadelphia has long been one of our most touted production destinations—as much for the dedication of its film office and excitement of its local moviemakers as for the top-quality projects that have been
shot here.

The City of Brotherly Love was also one of the first moviemaking destinations to show some love to the environment, kicking off a series of green initiatives to reduce the amount of waste created by the area’s heavy moviemaking foot traffic. With monthly green events, including cocktail receptions, sustainable moviemaking workshops and awards luncheons, the city is doing its part to keep the world a better place—and its local moviemakers busy.

In 2007, the state enacted the Pennsylvania Film Production Tax Credit, a $75 million fund from which transferable tax credits of up to 25 percent are made available to qualified productions. However, in December 2008, the Greater Philadelphia Film Office found itself rallying to save the credit, after state representative Ron Marsico aired his disappointment at the governor’s continuance of the program, stating that “Film tax credits are bad tax policy, especially in a tight budget year, and an irresponsible priority for the sake of a photo-op of a political leader and a Hollywood star or starlet.” True to form, Sharon Pinkenson, the film office’s executive director, and her staff launched an all-out assault on their opponents, encouraging moviemakers, business owners, film school students and film fans to petition their legislators and make sure the credit continued.

One person touting the merits of the city is Mayor Michael Nutter, who claims that Philadelphia “has the best in production talent to meet your requirements as well as the support of our experienced film office staff and a film-friendly operations department. We understand your challenges and pledge our support and ask that you allow us the opportunity to show you just how much we have to offer.”

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