Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp and fellow supporters at the press conference on April 21st.

TALLAHASSEE, FL (April 21, 2008) — Film Florida announced today the creation of the Don Davis Film Finishing Fund; which will provide completion funding to aspiring filmmakers in the state.

The state’s film community was devastated by the news that Rep. Davis – a longtime champion of the production industry – passed away earlier this month following a lengthy illness. In 2007’s session, the state revamped the entire incentive program and renamed it the Don Davis Entertainment Industry Economic Development Act increasing the incentive to $25 million.

“Representative Don Davis revived our industry by spearheading legislation that truly took our state into a more level playing field with other states also competing to bring in production business,” said Graham Winick, President of Film Florida. “He was instrumental in passing legislation that has resulted in jobs and growth for Florida’s film industry.”

Pamela Tuscany-Warren, Vice President of Universal Studios Production Group, speaking on behalf of the film industry, agreed.

“Representative Davis understood that the incentive works, and that it is vital to the state’s economy. We are saddened that our industry has lost a trailblazer, and want continue his legacy with the Don Davis Film Finishing Fund that will assist filmmakers for generations to come. We think the creation of this fund will serve as a tribute to him, and that’s why we didn’t hesitate to contribute. I am challenging my fellow film industry professionals to match our initial contribution to insure this remarkable man remains recognized in our industry for years to come.”

The Don Davis Film Finishing Fund will provide completion funding to independent producers and filmmakers. Film Florida will announce criteria and applications soon on www.filmflorida.org.

“This is a fitting memorial to Representative Don Davis whose hard work has helped grow Florida’s film, television and digital media industry incentive program from $2.45 million four years ago to the current level of $25 million. As a result of the state incentive program, we currently have 48 certified productions slated for this year compared to just 22 last year. More than $6 is spent on Florida wages, services and products for every dollar we rebate these productions. Further, the positive impact on our tourism industry is immeasurable,” said Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp.

He continued: “The Governor and I have asked the legislature to invest $30 million into the incentive so we can attract and keep this industry and its valuable workforce in Florida. I know if Don were here today he would be very proud of the industry for creating the Film Florida’s Don Davis Film Finishing Fund as another tool to help build our talent base.”

Frank Patterson, Florida State University Film School Dean, also recognized Representative Davis’ vast contribution and legacy. “As educators prepare Florida’s future filmmakers, we owe an enormous debt to the leadership of Representative Don Davis, whose bold work paved a road of real opportunity for our graduates entering the film, television and digital media industries,” he said. “His legacy will most certainly live on through the successful careers of our students.”
For more information, please visit www.filmflorida.org.