New Ernst & Young LLP Report Discusses Studies of State Film Tax Credits

STUDIES OF FILM TAX CREDITS SHOW ECONOMIC BENEFITS FOR STATES

(New York, NY) A study released today by Ernst & Young LLP outlines the economic benefits of film production tax incentives for states and analyzes the most effective framework for evaluating the economic success of film incentive programs. The study examines the objectives of film credit programs, explains the methodologies used to estimate the economic benefits of film credit programs and discusses the approaches used to analyze the film credits in a number of recent state studies of the effectiveness of film credits. Film credits are currently in use in 37 states.

"The primary benefits of film credits to state residents are increased employment and higher incomes generated by film production activities," said Robert Cline, Ernst & Young LLP's National Director of State and Local Tax Policy Economics. "However, the economic benefits to residents extend beyond the production activities themselves and include increased activity by suppliers to the film industry and increased consumer spending from higher incomes.".. more

ENZIAN HONORED BY DISNEY FOR HELPING KIDS SHINE
(Orlando, FL) Walt Disney World Resort recognized Enzian as a recipient of a 2012 Disney Helping Kids Shine Grant with a $20,000 check dedicated to the KidFest Young Filmmakers’ Summer Camp, an educational program that provides a hands-on, immersive experience in the art of filmmaking. The award recognizes organizations that inspire creativity and innovation, encourage a sense of compassion for others and promote the health and well being of families. “It is always an honor to be recognized by Walt Disney World Resort,” commented Enzian President Henry Maldonado. “We at Enzian very much appreciate their commitment to and support of our KidFest program, which opens the world of filmmaking to our children. Enzian is a nonprofit arts institution and their contribution will go far in helping our kids really shine." more...

Summer Camp for Film Makers
(St. Petersburg, FL) In July the Sunscreen Film Festival presents its fourth summer camp for youngsters. The two-week program will teach the kids how to concept, write, shoot and edit movies. The camp will end with a mini-festival to showcase the creative output of the campers. The camp will meet at Studio620, 620 First Ave. South in St. Petersburg. It will run Mon. through Fri. from July 9 to July 20 from 9-5. The cost for the instruction and special equipment is $500.00. more...

Florida Film Network General Meeting
(Tampa, FL) The newly formed Florida Film Network, based in the Tampa Bay Area, will hold its first General Meeting on Wednesday, May 23 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Art Institute of Tampa, 4401 N. Himes Avenue in the atrium. FFN President Daniel Brienza said that all consecutive General Meetings will be held at that location and time on the fourth Wednesday of every month. The new organization plans to have a production website up shortly that will list actors and crew available throughout Florida. It also will feature film contests, offer exclusive casting calls, industry workshops and seminars for its growing membership. more...

LIGHTS, CAMERA, FILM…SUMMER CAMP
(Miami, FL) Florida Film Institute (FFI) is excited to announce a summer partnership for the second year with the Coral Gables Cinemateque (CGC). CINEMA, a film education summer camp will be held at the CGC’s Coral Gables Art Cinema , located at 260 Aragon Avenue in Coral Gables , from June 18 to July 25, 2012. Up to 20 high school students are invited to attend the workshops that meet on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00am to 1:00pm. FFI will give students the opportunity to focus on essential and practical aspects of commercial motion picture production, including script preparation, cinematography, lighting, sound recording, directing, acting and music. The program will feature instruction by South Florida Film Industry professionals, and will also include a beginners Yoga class for students. At the end of the session, participants will showcase their film at the theatre. more...