For decades, California and New York were the dominant hubs of film and television production, but in the 21st century, a new powerhouse emerged: Georgia. Dubbed the “Hollywood of the South,” Georgia has become one of the top filming destinations in the world, attracting major productions and fueling a thriving local industry. But how did Georgia rise to such prominence in the media world? Let’s take a historical look at the factors that shaped its success.
The Birth of Georgia’s Film Industry
While Georgia has been the setting for films since the early 20th century, the industry’s roots took hold in 1972 with the release of Deliverance. This critically acclaimed film not only showcased the state’s breathtaking natural landscapes but also demonstrated its potential as a viable filming location. Over the next few decades, projects like Smokey and the Bandit (1977) and Forrest Gump (1994) continued to put Georgia on the map, but the state still lagged behind major production centers.
The Game-Changer: Georgia’s Film Tax Incentive
The true turning point came in 2008 when the Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act was passed. This groundbreaking legislation offered a 30% tax credit for qualifying productions, making Georgia one of the most financially attractive states for filmmakers. The incentive applied to films, television shows, commercials, and video game productions – provided they met certain spending thresholds.
This aggressive tax break, coupled with Georgia’s lower cost of living and diverse filming locations, made it a no-brainer for Hollywood studios looking to maximize budgets. The result? A flood of productions that transformed the state’s economy and infrastructure.
Blockbuster Productions and Georgia’s Rise to Fame
With financial incentives in place, Georgia quickly became a hotspot for major productions. Some of the biggest blockbusters in recent memory have been filmed in the state, including:
- The Hunger Games series
- Black Panther
- Stranger Things
- The Walking Dead
- Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame
These projects not only solidified Georgia’s reputation but also brought jobs, tourism, and investment to the state. Fans of The Walking Dead flocked to towns like Senoia, while Black Panther’s Wakanda scenes showcased Georgia’s ability to double for almost any setting.
The Growth of Georgia’s Film Infrastructure
As more productions poured into Georgia, the state adapted by expanding its film infrastructure. Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, one of the largest film studios in the country, became a beacon of the industry’s growth. Pinewood Atlanta Studios (now Trilith Studios) provided a home for massive Marvel productions, and local post-production, casting, and set-building industries flourished.
Film schools and training programs also expanded to meet demand, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled local crew members. This helped Georgia transition from merely being a filming location to a full-fledged production hub.
Challenges and the Future of Georgia’s Film Industry
Despite its success, Georgia’s film industry faces challenges. Political controversies and calls to boycott filming in the state have made headlines, but so far, the financial benefits of the tax incentives have outweighed the political friction. Additionally, other states have attempted to lure productions away by offering competing incentives, but Georgia’s established infrastructure continues to give it an edge.
Looking forward, the industry’s future in Georgia seems bright. With the rise of streaming platforms and an increasing demand for content, production companies continue to view Georgia as an essential filming destination. As long as the tax incentives remain intact, the Peach State is likely to remain Hollywood’s favorite Southern outpost.
From Deliverance to Avengers: Endgame, Georgia has carved out an undeniable role in the entertainment industry. Thanks to smart legislation, diverse filming locations, and a commitment to building a robust industry, the state has earned its title as the “Hollywood of the South.” With continued investment and innovation, Georgia’s film legacy is only just beginning.