When people think of Hollywood, they typically picture Los Angeles—the studios, the palm trees, the red carpets. But a quiet revolution has been underway in the American South, and Georgia has emerged as one of the most powerful players in the entertainment industry. With generous tax incentives, top-notch infrastructure, and a growing talent pool, Georgia is now being hailed as “Hollywood of the South”—and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.
The New Hollywood: Why Georgia Is the Next Film Hub
A Blockbuster Rise to Fame
In recent years, Georgia has hosted some of the biggest productions in film and television. From Marvel’s Black Panther and Avengers: Endgame to Netflix’s Stranger Things and AMC’s The Walking Dead, the Peach State has provided the backdrops for stories that captivated audiences around the globe.
This surge in production isn’t just a lucky streak. Georgia’s climb to the top of the industry ladder is the result of strategic investment and savvy policymaking that began in the mid-2000s. By offering up to 30% in tax credits to production companies, the state positioned itself as an irresistible destination for budget-conscious filmmakers who didn’t want to sacrifice quality.
Tax Incentives That Turn Heads
The crown jewel of Georgia’s film boom is its tax credit system. Productions that spend at least $500,000 in the state are eligible for a base 20% credit, with an additional 10% if they include a Georgia promotional logo in their final product. This allows producers to stretch their budgets further without compromising production value.
It’s not just small indie films taking advantage of this incentive. Major studios are flocking to Georgia because it makes fiscal sense—and because the state has the resources to support large-scale shoots.
World-Class Studios and Infrastructure
One of the reasons Georgia has become a top filming location is the presence of high-end studios that rival anything found in California. Trilith Studios (formerly Pinewood Atlanta) is one of the largest purpose-built movie studios in North America, featuring dozens of soundstages, backlots, and high-tech facilities.
Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, built on a former Army base, is another cornerstone of Georgia’s production capacity. It boasts 330 acres, 12 sound stages, and the distinction of being the first major film studio fully owned by an African American.
The Talent Pool Is Expanding
Beyond the infrastructure and financial benefits, Georgia has been cultivating a rich ecosystem of creative talent. Local universities are developing robust film programs, and the Georgia Film Academy provides hands-on training to prepare the next generation of filmmakers, crew members, and technicians.
The availability of a skilled, local workforce reduces the need to fly in professionals from other parts of the country, lowering costs and boosting the state’s economy. More and more, productions are finding everything they need—from actors to lighting techs—right in Georgia.
A Diversity of Locations
Georgia’s geography is another major draw. The state offers a wide range of filming environments, from bustling cityscapes and suburban neighborhoods to forests, mountains, lakes, and coastal scenes. Atlanta can double for New York City or Chicago, while rural towns can play the part of classic Americana.
This versatility allows filmmakers to shoot a wide array of scenes without ever leaving the state, saving time and logistical hassle. The ease of moving between locations helps explain why so many TV series now choose Georgia as their home base.
A Boost to the Local Economy
The benefits of Georgia’s film explosion extend far beyond the entertainment industry. According to the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the film and television sector generated more than $4.4 billion in direct spending in 2023 alone.
Local businesses—from catering companies and rental houses to hotels and transportation services—are thriving thanks to the influx of production crews. Entire towns have been revitalized as filming locations draw in tourists eager to see the places where their favorite shows and movies were shot.
Political Challenges, but Resilient Growth
While Georgia’s film industry has faced some political pushback due to controversial state legislation, most studios and streamers have continued to film in the state. The sheer strength of its infrastructure, the savings provided by tax credits, and the state’s responsiveness to industry needs have helped it weather these storms.
The industry has also taken steps to use its platform responsibly, promoting inclusivity and sustainability while continuing to grow.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
With global demand for content higher than ever, Georgia is poised to remain a powerhouse in film and TV production. Upcoming projects from major streamers like Netflix, Amazon, and Apple TV are already lined up, and new studios are expanding to meet rising demand.
The state isn’t resting on its laurels. Continued investment in education, green production practices, and diversity initiatives are setting the stage for Georgia to be not just a new Hollywood—but a better one.
Conclusion
Georgia’s transformation into a top-tier film hub proves that Hollywood no longer has just one home. Through a smart combination of incentives, infrastructure, and innovation, the Peach State has built a legacy of storytelling that’s as impressive as it is sustainable. For filmmakers and fans alike, Georgia offers a powerful new vision of what the entertainment industry can be.
Whether you’re behind the camera or in front of the screen, the next big thing in film just might be happening in the heart of the South.
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