Santa Fe Community College Fall Class
FILM 270-03, Film Crew Seminar: SFX: Bullets Hits and Flames (CRN 21499)
Join Dick Hogle, premier special effects artist, in a full-day intensive seminar and learn how to set squibs, blood packs and use flame producing special effects equipment. Dick Hogle, IATSE 480 union member, has worked in New Mexico for over 40 years in the film and theater industries.
When: November 2, 2008
Day: Sunday
Time: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Where: Santa Fe Community College
Information: http://www.sfccnm.edu, e-mail filminfo@sfccnm.edu or call 428-1421
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Letter to the Editor on the New Mexico Film Incentives
This letter to the editor of the NY Times was written by Nick Smerigan, COO of Albuquerque Studios. We think its instructive to those who want to understand more about the nature of film incentives. The key thing you'll continually find when it comes to film incentive programs - New Mexico gets the highest marks for the sustainable nature of its program, and its success. Dozens of States have tried to replicate our model, with varying levels of success - some, in fact, with awful results.
One of the reasons the New Mexico incentive program and film industry is so successful is that much of the production money that is spent here, stays here. Productions use local resources, hire local crew, and, increasingly, are able to do post-production work here, all of which contributes to an evolving creative class of individuals and businesses who earn a solid wage, and who have been able to integrate the film industry into their lives and businesses.
If its any testimony to the busy-ness of the industry, crewnewmexico.com has added nearly 140 advertisers to our site in just a few months, and our web traffic come from sources wide and strong.
United States Film Production Incentives
Over the past 4 to 5 years there has been a lot written and discussed in regards to the various tax incentives and rebate programs that many states have offered film and television productions to entice the productions to bring work to their states. The tax incentives and rebates were, to the best of my knowledge, established to create jobs and act as an economic stimulus for the state. To that end, most states have never been able to quantify whether the incentive packages that they offer are actually stimulating their economy or creating new jobs because, to date, there is no clear process by which to determine the impact of the dollars spent. Whether quantifying dollars spent directly by the productions or the multiplying effect of those dollars within the local economy, it has been difficult to measure how that spending is extending into local communities.
The programs do, in fact, keep jobs and production in the U.S. . There's no question about that. But, important questions need to be answered. Are these rebates and incentive programs a rush to compete in the marketplace with little or no thought as to how they are administered or awarded? And, how do these programs ACTUALLY impact the state's economy? In your article you mentioned how successful the New Mexico program has been. One of the major factors in my decision to lend my expertise to a $90M+ infrastructure project in New Mexico was how the New Mexico Film Incentive Program was being executed and how knowledgeable the people are who make the decisions to extend the rebates to the productions.
Many legislators, legal consultants and other political advisers use the argument that states are paying out millions of dollars to production companies and that expenditure does not equal the tax revenue the state is receiving in return. First, how can a state rebate more than the production actually spends? Isn't that impossible? For example, with a 25% rebate in New Mexico , the local taxable spend is always guaranteed to be four times the rebated amount. That spend not only generates sales or gross receipts taxes but also filters through the economy as it multiplies from salaries to home purchases to development and back to salaries, etc, etc. Second, the focus should not solely be about state income tax receipts but about the benefit production activity and spending provide the populace of that state. This is the "economic stimulus" that differentiates these rebate and incentive bills from the other economic development programs mentioned in your article. The question then becomes, "How do we quantify how much the populace is benefiting from the local production generated by the programs?" Shouldn't we focus on the fact that a particular production can inject many millions of dollars into the state economy in a timeframe much shorter than any other industry? Or, that many of the local production support personnel and companies in the state hired by the production would not have otherwise had that job or that business? The production companies are going to make their project somewhere and, without an incentive, a local market has little to no chance of capturing that economic development opportunity.
Truly sustainable incentive programs should be determined by many reasonable factors including location (both look and proximity to the powerbases of Los Angeles and New York ), available local crew and access to equipment and services, to name a few. An incentive program should not be based solely on one state's desire to outdo another. Film and television production is in an intricate business with many moving parts. The people who pen these rebate and incentive programs not only need to understand how each piece of a proposed incentive will impact the local economy but must also understand the production industry and its processes. Each state is different and presents its own advantages and disadvantages to potential production clients. With the appropriate incentives on offer, a state can direct its approach in order to attract specific types and quantities of production. Each incentive program should take this into account and states must craft their legislation to benefit their local economy by capitalizing on these differences.
Albuquerque Studios infused over $91 million of infrastructure into the local economy, without state or local investment, because the structure and administration of the New Mexico rebate program was attractive to our clients. New Mexico had an established production support and crew base and the location was close enough to Los Angeles to make it more attractive. The program is SUSTAINABLE as a result of how it is funded and the way each dollar spent is recycled time and time again through the economy. This investment alone should prove that the right incentive packages work. Glamour has always been Hollywood's calling card but the individuals who create that glamour are hard working people who have created a multi-billion dollar industry – an industry that has created an untold number of jobs and wealth across the world. There should be no doubt that they are business men and women who look to manufacture their product in the most financially beneficial arena. Why shouldn't they? They provide jobs, in most cases high-paying union jobs, to local citizens no matter what their socioeconomic backround. They use services and products from the various locales and put an incredible amount of money into the communities. And, yes, they do pay taxes in those areas.
It can get tiring hearing the same arguments from the same people over and over again. The answer is simple. Without an incentive program there is virtually no chance that you would have attracted any of the production money spent thus far in your state (or any future production business). Whether it is $1 million or $100 million, production spending benefited your local economy by its very nature. If you want to quantify this impact then put together a method by which that can be done – don't just say that it isn't working. New Mexico is in the process of creating such a methodology right now. While a certain incentive program may not be working because it is not crafted to take advantage of a state's particular set of economic and geographical conditions, a wisely crafted, sustainable program DOES work. Films are now being made in America that historically would have been made in other countries, where Americans would not get an opportunity to work on them. Whatever we do going forward, let's start by looking at simple business policies before we just throw a percentage on the table. What is it you are trying to accomplish for your state and communities? What are the benefits to your local work force? How are the local businesses going to benefit and, most importantly, how do you measure the program's impact on your state's economy?
If approached cautiously and intelligently, state-specific production incentive programs are successful. I came to the desert of New Mexico because I believed in the production incentive which provided a "competitive edge" for the Studio. I stay in the desert because I believe that system is working and will continue to provide that "competitive edge" far into the future.
Nick Smerigan
COO
Albuquerque Studios
Albuquerque , New Mexico
One of the reasons the New Mexico incentive program and film industry is so successful is that much of the production money that is spent here, stays here. Productions use local resources, hire local crew, and, increasingly, are able to do post-production work here, all of which contributes to an evolving creative class of individuals and businesses who earn a solid wage, and who have been able to integrate the film industry into their lives and businesses.
If its any testimony to the busy-ness of the industry, crewnewmexico.com has added nearly 140 advertisers to our site in just a few months, and our web traffic come from sources wide and strong.
United States Film Production Incentives
Over the past 4 to 5 years there has been a lot written and discussed in regards to the various tax incentives and rebate programs that many states have offered film and television productions to entice the productions to bring work to their states. The tax incentives and rebates were, to the best of my knowledge, established to create jobs and act as an economic stimulus for the state. To that end, most states have never been able to quantify whether the incentive packages that they offer are actually stimulating their economy or creating new jobs because, to date, there is no clear process by which to determine the impact of the dollars spent. Whether quantifying dollars spent directly by the productions or the multiplying effect of those dollars within the local economy, it has been difficult to measure how that spending is extending into local communities.
The programs do, in fact, keep jobs and production in the U.S. . There's no question about that. But, important questions need to be answered. Are these rebates and incentive programs a rush to compete in the marketplace with little or no thought as to how they are administered or awarded? And, how do these programs ACTUALLY impact the state's economy? In your article you mentioned how successful the New Mexico program has been. One of the major factors in my decision to lend my expertise to a $90M+ infrastructure project in New Mexico was how the New Mexico Film Incentive Program was being executed and how knowledgeable the people are who make the decisions to extend the rebates to the productions.
Many legislators, legal consultants and other political advisers use the argument that states are paying out millions of dollars to production companies and that expenditure does not equal the tax revenue the state is receiving in return. First, how can a state rebate more than the production actually spends? Isn't that impossible? For example, with a 25% rebate in New Mexico , the local taxable spend is always guaranteed to be four times the rebated amount. That spend not only generates sales or gross receipts taxes but also filters through the economy as it multiplies from salaries to home purchases to development and back to salaries, etc, etc. Second, the focus should not solely be about state income tax receipts but about the benefit production activity and spending provide the populace of that state. This is the "economic stimulus" that differentiates these rebate and incentive bills from the other economic development programs mentioned in your article. The question then becomes, "How do we quantify how much the populace is benefiting from the local production generated by the programs?" Shouldn't we focus on the fact that a particular production can inject many millions of dollars into the state economy in a timeframe much shorter than any other industry? Or, that many of the local production support personnel and companies in the state hired by the production would not have otherwise had that job or that business? The production companies are going to make their project somewhere and, without an incentive, a local market has little to no chance of capturing that economic development opportunity.
Truly sustainable incentive programs should be determined by many reasonable factors including location (both look and proximity to the powerbases of Los Angeles and New York ), available local crew and access to equipment and services, to name a few. An incentive program should not be based solely on one state's desire to outdo another. Film and television production is in an intricate business with many moving parts. The people who pen these rebate and incentive programs not only need to understand how each piece of a proposed incentive will impact the local economy but must also understand the production industry and its processes. Each state is different and presents its own advantages and disadvantages to potential production clients. With the appropriate incentives on offer, a state can direct its approach in order to attract specific types and quantities of production. Each incentive program should take this into account and states must craft their legislation to benefit their local economy by capitalizing on these differences.
Albuquerque Studios infused over $91 million of infrastructure into the local economy, without state or local investment, because the structure and administration of the New Mexico rebate program was attractive to our clients. New Mexico had an established production support and crew base and the location was close enough to Los Angeles to make it more attractive. The program is SUSTAINABLE as a result of how it is funded and the way each dollar spent is recycled time and time again through the economy. This investment alone should prove that the right incentive packages work. Glamour has always been Hollywood's calling card but the individuals who create that glamour are hard working people who have created a multi-billion dollar industry – an industry that has created an untold number of jobs and wealth across the world. There should be no doubt that they are business men and women who look to manufacture their product in the most financially beneficial arena. Why shouldn't they? They provide jobs, in most cases high-paying union jobs, to local citizens no matter what their socioeconomic backround. They use services and products from the various locales and put an incredible amount of money into the communities. And, yes, they do pay taxes in those areas.
It can get tiring hearing the same arguments from the same people over and over again. The answer is simple. Without an incentive program there is virtually no chance that you would have attracted any of the production money spent thus far in your state (or any future production business). Whether it is $1 million or $100 million, production spending benefited your local economy by its very nature. If you want to quantify this impact then put together a method by which that can be done – don't just say that it isn't working. New Mexico is in the process of creating such a methodology right now. While a certain incentive program may not be working because it is not crafted to take advantage of a state's particular set of economic and geographical conditions, a wisely crafted, sustainable program DOES work. Films are now being made in America that historically would have been made in other countries, where Americans would not get an opportunity to work on them. Whatever we do going forward, let's start by looking at simple business policies before we just throw a percentage on the table. What is it you are trying to accomplish for your state and communities? What are the benefits to your local work force? How are the local businesses going to benefit and, most importantly, how do you measure the program's impact on your state's economy?
If approached cautiously and intelligently, state-specific production incentive programs are successful. I came to the desert of New Mexico because I believed in the production incentive which provided a "competitive edge" for the Studio. I stay in the desert because I believe that system is working and will continue to provide that "competitive edge" far into the future.
Nick Smerigan
COO
Albuquerque Studios
Albuquerque , New Mexico
More Members to the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com
Over the next few days, watch for blog posts about some of the newest members to the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com - Amy Morrison, Set Dresser, from ABQ; a business power team from Albuquerque that provides insurance, mortgages, and real estate services; Joan Siebens- Set Dresser from Tesuque; a production coordinator, an art director and movie poster expert, and more. Stay tuned!
And, as always, if you have any questions about getting listed on crewnewmexico.com, contact us at membership@crewnewmexico.com, or (866) 986-8884!
New Belgium Abbey Grand Cru! True Bliss.
Every once in a while, we come across something that just strikes us as a piece of mastery. Sometimes its film, sometimes is a performance, and, sometimes, its Beer! We saw the billboard advertisement and stopped in at O'Niell's last week and had a pint of their New Belgium Abbey Grand Cru, and have been moved to tell you about it. If you're a beer lover, don't delay. Have one - or two - today (at 9% you only need one : ) )
It's a very limited release brew - O'Niell's has the only 4 kegs of it in the state. Its an Abbey Dubbel Style Ale - and totally delicious.
Here's what New Belgium has to say about it: Abbey Grand Cru is a richer version of our Abbey, a Belgian "Double" style ale. It is brown in color, with a full body and a distinctive fruity aroma. Abbey Grand Cru is fermented with an authentic Belgian yeast strain, and is refermented in the bottle to produce natural carbonation. The beer should be served cool (not cold) to best experience the rich aroma and complex flavors. Abbey Grand Cru will continue to improve and age gracefully for several years, if stored in a cool dark cellar.
We're beer experts, and seriously love this one.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Welcome New Furnished Rental - Casa San Pasquale
We'd like to take a second to welcome one of the newest members of the Crew of New Mexico people serving the New Mexico film industry - Casa San Pasquale - Furnished Rental in Old Town Albuquerque.
Casa San Pasquale, in the heart of historic Old Town in Albuquerque, is a true southwest-style 2 br 2 ba home with fully equipped kitchen with new appliances, cookware, cookbooks and garden view.
The 2 bedroom master suite sleeps three to five, has a jetted tub, Talavera sinks, and two balconies for relaxation. The second bedroom can be used as an office or art studio with drawing board, and high-speed wireless internet. A queen-size sleeper is available if needed for extra guests.
The main space features brick floors, saltillo tiles and mosaics, and a two-way fireplace. There's a private patio with fountain and pond!
The house is a short walk to the plaza and all main attractions. It's available for short or long term rentals. Tell them you saw it on crewnewmexico.com!
Casa San Pasquale - Albuquerque Furnished Rental
crewnewmexico.com/casasanpasquale
(505) 264-6797
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Welcome Chris Paul and POV, Inc. to the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com
Check it out! Chris Paul and POV, Inc. are the newest members of the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com!
POV, Inc. is a Post Production and Editing House in Albuqueruqe serving the New Mexico Film/Media Industry (and productions of any size) with 2 editing rooms with over 20TB of storage. They work with most formats and resolutions supported- up to to 2K. RED camera support. High speed internet upload with online storage. They have a narration booth and HD camera package available.
Chris is a senior editor with 24 years experience. He does editing, motion graphics, field production, scriptwriting and more. Additional editors and support services are available.
Tell them you saw them on crewnewmexico.com!
Chris Paul and POV, Inc.
www.crewnewmexico.com/pov
(505) 463-1492
Welcome New Member Spirit Productions to the New Mexico Film Resource Directory on crewnewmexico.com
We'd like to welcome Elizabeth Baker and Spirit Productions to the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com!
Elizabeth worked on eleven independent films in Los Angeles before writing and directing her first documentary, "When Buffalo Roam". The film won Best Social Documentary Short of 1999 at the New York International Independent Film and Video Festival. (see clip here on their crewnewmexico.com profile page).
Spirit Productions is a Santa Fe-based team of several former Los Angeles based professionals, including an award-winning writer and filmmaker; art director and digital imager; a nationally renowned producer and talent coach; television executive producer/writer; professional over-the-shoulder soundman; a television and radio commercial writer and producer; and a grammy-award winning musical composer and producer.
The Spirit Productions Compound, located in South Santa Fe near the community college is also available for production office rental and/or film location.
Elizabeth and Spirit Productions are well known fixtures in the New Mexico Film/Media world, and we're thrilled to have them on board.
Spirit Productions 505.216.5140
www.crewnewmexico.com/spiritproductions
www.spiritpro.net
BE A STUNT PERFORMER!
NEW MEXICO SAG PRESENTS:
"Everything You Wanted to Know About Working as a Stunt Performer in New Mexico"
When: Sunday, October 26, 2008
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Nativo Lodge - Albuquerque
6000 Pan American Freeway NE
Registration:
SAG members, RSVP to Tamara Decker at tdecker@sag.org
Non-SAG participants, RSVP to macfacilitations@yahoo.com. No Fee.
You must be a New Mexico resident to attend. Please bring a valid New Mexico driver’s license to show during sign-in at the event. (Voter’s registration or last year’s tax return will also suffice.) (this should also be a reminder to get out and vote!)
Panel has been made available through the Pre-Employment Training Program of the NM State Film Office. All Lectures, Panels, Workshops and Classes are tentative until final approval.
Panelists:
Glenn Hiraoka - SAG National Director for Stunts, Safety, Singers & Dancer Contracts
Al Goto - Stunt Coordinator & Performer
Clint Lilley - Stunt Coordinator, Stunt Man and Principal Performer
Dana Hee - Stunt-double and Performer
Mark Brooks - Stunt Performer
Kaaren Ochoa - First Assistant Director, Unit Production Manager
Julie Crane, Screen Actors Guild New Mexico Branch Executive Director
Moderator: Angelique Midthunder - Casting Director and Stuntwoman
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
We're in ABQ, and our Newest Members Are. . .
Dr. Suzanne Smart and Nob Hill Acupuncture! We'll write more when their profile page is all finished, but we wanted to give them a shout out and quick welcome. Great, peaceful place, convenient location in Nob Hill.
And Chris Paul and POV, Inc - Post House and Editing House in ABQ.
More detailed posts to come!
And Chris Paul and POV, Inc - Post House and Editing House in ABQ.
More detailed posts to come!
Conversations with Breaking Bad!
Join us for an afternoon with the amazing cast of AMC's Breaking Bad as they share their experiences in the industry and talk about filming in New Mexico. Event sponsored by the City of Albuquerque. "We are thrilled to be the host city for Breaking Bad", said Mayor Martin J. Chavez. "Congratulations to Bryan Cranston for his recent Emmy win, and thanks for bringing this event to Albuquerque."
Panel includes:
Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul, Dean Norris, Betsy Brandt, RJ Mitte, Steven Quezada
This event is open to the public. RSVP required.
(323) 549-6668 or via email to Conversations@sag.org
SAG members may RSVP directly on the Foundation website, www.sagfoundation.org
Saturday, October 25th, 1pm.
KiMo Theatre
423 Central Ave NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Mix and mingle with the cast immediately following the event at
One Up, 301 Central Ave NE
Monday, October 20, 2008
Do You Look Like This Guy?
Do you look like Jackie Chan? Do you have more or less the same build, hair, or features?If so, the feature film "The Spy Next Door" needs you! They're looking for Jackie Chan's body/photo double.
You must be available to work M-F Oct 29- Dec 24 (dates could change) and be available to work at least 12 hr days. Plase submit your photos to: easymoneybg@gmail.com.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Vote Early New Mexico!
New Mexico residents have the great opportunity to cast their vote for President starting Saturday, October 18th! It's a great way to beat the rush, and to avoid last minute mishaps with, say, going to the wrong polling location, or forgetting your ID, etc.
This is the best link we've found for finding your Vote Early location; its provided by the Democratic party but provides information for any party affiliation.
Don't be a dope. Vote!
Important! New Mexico Film/Media Survey
Its time again to help support the New Mexico State Film Incentive Program! This year, individuals and businesses that work in the film industry (or who's work support the film industry - ie, your company provides goods and/or services to the industry or other industry supporting businesses) are being asked to fill out a quick but very important survey that helps quantify the economic impact that the film industry has on the State and its residents. This includes actors, crew, restaurants, realtors -- anyone who derives income from the film industry.
The incentives are a highly critical part of why there is a film industry here in the State, and it is up to all of us to do our part to keep them here. If you are an individual or business who has (between 2002-present) worked in the film industry, worked in a business that supports the film industry, or in some other direct way received economic benefit from the film industry, it is critical that you speak up.
The New Mexico State Film Office, and the IATSE 480 have sent out an online survey, but there are those who may not be on either mailing list, and not received it. In order to receive the survey, please email us at info@crewnewmexico.com, or call (866) 986-8884 and we'll make sure that you are added to the list of survey recipients. You are also encouraged to contact the State Film Office at info@nmfilm.com, or (505) 476-5600 if you have any questions. Once you receive the survey, please fill it out immediately. It takes less than 5 minutes.
This is very important, so please do not delay!
Thank you.
Friday, October 17, 2008
A Special Offer for Members of New Mexico Women in Film!
Are you a member of the New Mexico Women in Film group (NMWIF)? If so, be sure to check your email for the latest newsletter, and a special offer from crewnewmexico.com!
NMWIF is an awesome group! A few weeks ago they hosted an excellent symposium on film financing, and it was followed by, like, the best spread of food ever, which inspired us to do something nice in return!
NMWIF is an awesome group! A few weeks ago they hosted an excellent symposium on film financing, and it was followed by, like, the best spread of food ever, which inspired us to do something nice in return!
Friends of Film Meeting - This Sunday!
The Friends of Film group are holding their monthly meeting this Sunday. A great, grass-roots groups of talented film folks. Here's the details.
Guest Speaker, Kenneth Knoll on "Monetizing Your Content."
"The opportunities to monetize video content are rapidly increasing. Your ability to realize various revenue sources is key to surviving in a competitive industry. Presenter will provide a multiple of examples currently in practice by his company. Audience participants will also be asked to provide examples to share with the group."
3:00 - 3:30 Social time, networking
3:30 - 3:45 Announcements
3:45 - 5:00 Program, Q&A
5:00 - 6:00 Show our work, give feedback
Meeting is free to FoFVA members, guests are asked to donate $10. Please bring refreshments to share.
Location: Harwood Center (7th and Mountain in Albuquerque, basement on north side of building). Contact rebdakota@aol.com for more info.
Guest Speaker, Kenneth Knoll on "Monetizing Your Content."
"The opportunities to monetize video content are rapidly increasing. Your ability to realize various revenue sources is key to surviving in a competitive industry. Presenter will provide a multiple of examples currently in practice by his company. Audience participants will also be asked to provide examples to share with the group."
3:00 - 3:30 Social time, networking
3:30 - 3:45 Announcements
3:45 - 5:00 Program, Q&A
5:00 - 6:00 Show our work, give feedback
Meeting is free to FoFVA members, guests are asked to donate $10. Please bring refreshments to share.
Location: Harwood Center (7th and Mountain in Albuquerque, basement on north side of building). Contact rebdakota@aol.com for more info.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
What's Up in the Santa Fe Film World
We at crewnewmexico.com wanted to re-post this article from by Peter Debruge in Variety about Santa Fe Studios so that everyone has an idea of what's coming down the pike for the New Mexico Film Industry.
Filmmaking focus shifts to Santa Fe
New studios call for more action in the area
by Peter Debruge
Boasting a major airport, Hollywood-caliber studio facilities and a full third of New Mexico's 2.5 million residents, the Albuquerque area seems like the natural hub for the state's filmmaking operations.
But plans are under way that could shift a significant amount of production to the Santa Fe area, widely recognized as the creative culture center of the Southwest. In addition to the many artists and musicians represented there, the capital (with its relatively modest 80,000 population) is home to nearly half the state's crew base. In the past, those pros have had to commute to Albuquerque (a 45-minute drive) or far-flung outdoor locations like Ghost Ranch or White Sands for work, with gas and lodging eating into production budgets.
That may change thanks to a number of major initiatives in the works. Earlier this month, local government gave the Hool family, established players in the Mexican and independent film scene, the greenlight to proceed with building Santa Fe Studios, their proposed 600,000-square-foot, six-stage facility just south of the city.
In keeping with the style of most Santa Fe architecture, the Hools looked to indigenous traditions as they planned their eco-conscious campus. "It turns out the Anasazi design principles map one-to-one with the lead green principles: orientation of buildings on a north-south axis, take advantage of shade for the summer and passive heating for winter, capture rainwater, things like that," explains Jason Hool, who left a job working with Guy Hands at Terra Firma to assist his father, producer Lance Hool, with the project.
By the time Santa Fe Studios' projected late-2009 completion date rolls around, Angelenos should be able to fly directly into Santa Fe with the same 90-minute terminal-to-terminal convenience currently available between the LAX and ABQ airports.
"American Airlines and Delta are in the process of getting clearance from the FAA," claims Eric Witt, head of Gov. Bill Richardson's media arts development initiative. "They're looking to direct 70- to 100-seat passenger jets from L.A., Denver and Dallas."
To make things even more accessible, construction is already under way on a high-speed "Rail Runner" train between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. At this rate, crews could be commuting effortlessly between the two cities by the end of the year.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Welcome Jay Goodman and Associates to the New Mexico Film Resource Directory on crewnewmexico.com!
We'd like to welcome the law firm of Jay Goodman and Associates to the NM Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com!
We met Jay at a networking event several weeks ago, and were immediately impressed by his professionalism, attitude, dedication, and willingness to reach out for new clients and contacts. So, it makes us especially proud to welcome Jay Goodman & Associates Law Firm, of Santa Fe, to the New Mexico Film Resource Directory on crewnewmexico.com.
Jay Goodman and Associates is comprised of a unique team of talented and diverse attorneys who come from excellent firms across the US. Members of the team are licensed to practice in New Mexico, Texas, Maryland, Ohio and Washington, DC, as well as before the U.S. Supreme Court and in the Nambe and San Juan Tribal Courts and the Zuni Pueblo Bar.
They offer a wide array of services including intellecutal property protection and copyright law, contract law, business and commerical law, real estate law, family law, business succession, mediation and arbitration, and many other areas of support. They are reaching out to individuals in the film industry who are in need of legal support for intellectual or copyright issues, and for those from in/out of state looking to set up and structure new film-supportive companies in New Mexico - to name just a few select areas of specialty.
It's simply a wise, pragmatic, and judicious choice to work with an attorney when dealing in the film world. So, we're really glad to know that Jay and team will be are out there working on your behalf. Free initial phone consultation.
Jay Goodman and Associates
crewnewmexico.com/jaygoodmanandassociates
www.jaygoodman.com
W: 866-989-8117
Daily Painters to the Trade - Newest Member of the New Mexico Film Resource Directory at crewnewmexico.com!
We'd like to welcome Daily Painters to the Trade to the New Mexico Film Resource Directory on crewnewmexico.com!
Once in a while you come across a special niche business for the film industry, and its and honor and pleasure to tell everyone about it. Jacqueline Butler runs a company called Daily Painters to the Trade - an alliance of amazing artists who are able to provide specialty artwork and specialty art props to New Mexico film productions within strict time frames.
Jacqueline can work with productions to provide existing artwork for set, or to have custom work done from a selection of 20 New Mexico-based painters. Jacqueline is an art consultant, art instructor, and experienced interior designer (ASID) who works frequently with architectural projects to help develop design themes and provide art pieces that can act as the catalyst for the entire project.
She is available for consultations, and to help guide you to her select group of artists who can provide a wide array of styles and content to match your production needs. And, nicest of all, Jacqueline is a renowned art instructor who welcomes short or long-term students to her beautiful studio out in the country just east of Santa Fe. The setting is amazing!
Jacqueline Bulter
Daily Painters to the Trade/Daily Painters New Mexico.com
crewnewmexico.com/dailypaintersnewmexico.com
www.dailypaintersnewmexico.com
The Madrid Film Club - This Friday!
The MADRID FILM CLUB presents a special screening of: NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD
Friday, October 17, 7 p.m. $5
Local film guru, Richard Ricci, will introduce this 1968 cult classic which gave birth to the modern horror movie and spawned a new genre: Zombie Movies. The story, in which the dead eat the living, also contains controversial racial statements. Ricci was instrumental in the inception and production of the film, and is the first Zombie in history to be shot in the head! Discussion with Ricci to follow. Also screening the TV commercial made by the same crew, which earned them the money to shoot NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD. Made on a tight budget, the film went on to gross over $100 million world-wide and become one of the most influential horror films of all time.
THE MADRID FILM CLUB is offering a selection of local, cult, and theme films every other Friday in the funky, historic, haunted venue: The Engine House Theater in beautiful Madrid, New Mexico. We hope to entertain as well as educate, through discussions with the filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts.
Full Bar in the Engine House Cantina / Food available via the Mine Shaft Tavern
THE MADRID FILM CLUB
@ the Engine House Theater
(behind the Mine Shaft Tavern)
2844 Hwy 14, Madrid, N.M. 87010
505-473-0743
http://www.TheMineS haftTavern. com/FilmClubFriday.html
Friday, October 17, 7 p.m. $5
Local film guru, Richard Ricci, will introduce this 1968 cult classic which gave birth to the modern horror movie and spawned a new genre: Zombie Movies. The story, in which the dead eat the living, also contains controversial racial statements. Ricci was instrumental in the inception and production of the film, and is the first Zombie in history to be shot in the head! Discussion with Ricci to follow. Also screening the TV commercial made by the same crew, which earned them the money to shoot NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD. Made on a tight budget, the film went on to gross over $100 million world-wide and become one of the most influential horror films of all time.
THE MADRID FILM CLUB is offering a selection of local, cult, and theme films every other Friday in the funky, historic, haunted venue: The Engine House Theater in beautiful Madrid, New Mexico. We hope to entertain as well as educate, through discussions with the filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts.
Full Bar in the Engine House Cantina / Food available via the Mine Shaft Tavern
THE MADRID FILM CLUB
@ the Engine House Theater
(behind the Mine Shaft Tavern)
2844 Hwy 14, Madrid, N.M. 87010
505-473-0743
http://www.TheMineS haftTavern. com/FilmClubFriday.html
We're Expanding! New Mexico's Premiere Film Industry Resource is Growing.
New Mexico's Premiere Film Resource is taking a lead from the time-tested example of the Universe - and we're Expanding (across New Mexico - for starters)!
That's right - crewnewmexico.com is expanding operations - first stop, Albuquerque - and we're planning to make a big splash! Watch out for crewnewmexcio.com sponsored networking events, happy hours, TV and radio interviews, public talks about the film industry, and geeky people wearing crewnewmexico.com T-Shirts.
Have an Albuquerque-based skill or business that you'd like to market to the film industry? Well, we'll be right around the corner, and happy to meet you!
Give us a call: (866) 986-8884, or email membership@crewnewmexico.com
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
It's the Santa Fe Film Biz Happy Hour - Tonight!
Come to the October Santa Fe Film Biz Happy Hour!
Filmmakers and other people in the film biz are invited to come meet and mingle with the growing Santa Fe Film community. What is the new economy is going to mean to New Mexico filmmaking? Share your views on this and other topics tomorrow night!
Join us on
Tuesday October 14th for the
Santa Fe Film Biz Happy Hour
Cowgirl BBQ Bar & Western Grill
319 S. Guadalupe St.
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Drink specials and light snacks.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
This Weekend. The Taos Mountain Film Festival!
This was an amazing event. Some of the films shown were really life-changing, dealing with environmental issues, and human/political issues with a heavy focus on Tibet and the Dalai Lama. Intense, instructive, inspiring, dark. Open your mind, learn a lot.Check it out. We're going!
The 8th Annual Taos Mountain Film Festival, the festival for mountaineers, mountain lovers and mountain characters, will feature films, guests and slideshows from the Tibetan Plateau, the planet’s most spectacular terrain known as the Roof of the World. This region has been shrouded in mystery and myth for millennia. For centuries it was closed to foreigners and the recent opening has, of course, been tainted by oppression and violence.
The festival will show a wide array of documentaries covering the history, culture and topography of the high plateau, which extends beyond Tibet itself into still comparatively unvisited lands such as Ladakh, Mustang and Western China. Selected films include the 1964 BBC classic Raid into Tibet, which follows a force of Tibetan resistance fighters making an incursion across the border to battle the occupying Chinese forces; The Fate of the Lhapas documents the attempts of the Tibetan shamans to preserve their old ways in exile; other films feature the teachings of the Dalai Lama, and a pilgrimage to the sacred mountain of Kailash.
The Taos Mountain Film Festival runs from October 9th through 12th. The festival program is available on line at www.mountainfilm.net. Passes and information are available online . For more information on the festival, contact Jonathan Slator at js@mountainfilm.net.
motionfest This Sunday in ABQ!
Don't forget! motionfest 08 takes place this Sunday, October 12, 2008 - AND IT'S FREE
In cooperation with the ABQ Film Office, motionfest will be offering a full-day of sessions, events, and movies for anyone from motion picture industry pros - to elementary school kids!
Lots of sessions for industry pros offered by Adobe, Maxon, Autodesk and Cinnafilm. There are also sessions for high-school and middle-school students. And elementary school kids get the opportunity to draw with a Disney animator! Bring the kids to see the full-length animated children's feature, Romeo & Juliet: Sealed with a Kiss.
For a complete list of sessions, events, and movie showtimes, check out http://motionfest.eventbrite.com.
Seating is limited, so reserve your FREE seat asap.
This event is sponsored by motion {www.motionconference.com} and the ABQ Film Office.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Hooray for Hollywood! Great Article form Variety Magazine
Studios prep major film productionCameras ready to roll despite SAG stalemate
by Michael Fleming
After mostly sitting on the sidelines since the June 30 expiration of the SAG contract, studios are preparing to put 40 or more films into production between spring and summer.
Hundreds of millions of dollars in production financing will be committed to fill slates for 2010 and 2011, signaling the end of the de facto thesp strike that has kept pic production at a low ebb for nearly a year.
With a handful of exceptions, the majors mostly stopped greenlighting films in October 2007, which led to a large number of productions that wrapped before June 30.
Studios are ready to replicate that pre-strike rush by creating the same kind of boom market for production starting early next year.
Studio toppers are moving forward with a healthy level of anxiety. The recent credit crunch won’t impact the next batch of film starts, execs said, because that money has already been secured and budgeted. And there’s clear evidence that audiences will continue to come to theaters, even if the economy remains in the toilet by the time these films are released.
Studios are more nervous about the financial exposure they face if SAG does go on strike. But the prospect of gaping holes in their distribution slates for 2010 and 2011 is a worse scenario for the majors, and so they are willing to risk the consequences of moving ahead despite the SAG uncertainty.
Films like "Terminator Salvation," "Transformers 2," "Angels & Demons," "Night at the Museum 2" and "2012" went into production after the expiration of the SAG contract, and each of those productions worked in strike contingencies that ranged from agreements with stage houses to shut down and leave sets intact to deals with cast members to return 48 hours after a strike is settled.
All those films completed production without incident, and several studio pics are in production now, including the Judd Apatow-directed "Funny People" (Universal), the Todd Phillips-helmed "Hangover" (Warner Bros.) and the Dwayne Johnson starrer "Tooth Fairy" (Fox 2000), with no problems.
The next batch of studio starts will have no strike protection. Studios begin spending money on pics during the pre-production phase, which usually begins 12 weeks before the start of principal photography. That means the clock will begin running next month on many pictures that will begin lensing in spring. There is no strike insurance available and no real way to protect against the millions of dollars in costs that will be incurred if a shutdown occurs.
Production on studio-sized films costs anywhere between $100,000 and $500,000 per day, and if a production halts because of an actor walkout, studios have only an eight-week hold on casts. There is potential for catastrophe.
Several top agents said the crumbling economy and the way their acting clients are itching to get back to work leaves them hopeful that a strike won’t disrupt film starts. Studios are betting on it.
Studios will protect themselves to some extent by waiting until March or so to start most of their films, creating some cushion for the labor picture to clear.
Even if a deal isn’t reached before SAG’s 2009 elections, execs and agents feel that productions can still move forward under terms of the deal that expired in June. Several agents said studios’ relationship with SAG could replicate the situation between the guild and the town’s top tenpercenteries. The guild’s longstanding franchise agreement with agencies expired in 2002, when a proposed revamp of the rules was voted down by SAG members by a 55% to 45% margin.
Six years later, business has continued more or less as it did under the franchise agreement for thesps and their agents, albeit with the agencies having more flexibility to be involved in financing and producing projects for their clients.
Agents aren’t eager to revisit the franchise agreement issue because since 2002 they have become far more entrepreneurial — by necessity, they say — and routinely create opportunities for clients in film, TV and digital by plugging in the financing. The agents said SAG has traditionally frowned on such maneuvers because of conflict-of-interest concerns, but they are betting the guild doesn’t have the leverage to do anything about it.
"Do you think a big star is going to have its union tell them who can negotiate their deal?" one top dealmaker asked rhetorically.
Meanwhile, most studios will put five or more pictures into production by the spring, though some of the specific start dates are being firmed around locations and casting.
While DreamWorks is expected to go into production early next year on "Up in the Air" with George Clooney starring and Jason Reitman directing, that title is an apt description of other pics expected to begin lensing such as the Steven Spielberg-directed "Tintin," as the company is fresh from a divorce from Paramount and is just plugging into financing from India-based Reliance Big Entertainment.
Most studios have full slates with a mix of moderately budgeted and event-sized fare.
Call for Entries - Slamdance Film Festival!
The Slamdance Film Festival is dedicated to new filmmakers. They accept films in every genre, on any topic from every country around the world. Their mission is to bring attention to the most talented emerging filmmakers, showcasing their work in the media frenzy of festival week in Park City, Utah.
The final deadline for all 2009 film submissions is October 10th. You betta hurry!
Send films and applications to
Slamdance HQ: Slamdance Film Festival
ATTN: Submissions
5634 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Click here for more info!
Today's New Members on crewnewmexico.com
We're adding lots of new members to the crew and production support categories of the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com
Just today: Watch for new profiles for some amazing industry resources: Elizabeth Baker and Spirit Pro Productions (producer, writer, director, production company), Eric Zerkel (Art Director, Digital Imaging, and Graphic Design), and AHERN rentals -- location equipment rentals - scissorlifts, cranes, payloaders, generators, and more.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
The Phenomenal IASTE 480 50% Discount
As members of the IATSE 480, we're proud to offer our fellow members of IATSE 480 the sterling 50% discount to all IATSE 48o Members in good standing!
What does that mean? It means that if you're a member of IATSE 480, you can expect at 50% discount on any listing on crewnewmexico.com! Whether you want to list yourself, or your business, you can expect that you're going to stand out from the crowd.
You get a fully detailed profile that features your resume, film credits, bio, headshot or business logo, all your contact information -- and you get your own web address, which means that you can now advertise yourself direct to production keys using your crewnewmexico.com web address. Simply send your crew web address to key decision makers, and they'll have all the information they need for their hiring decisions. Plus, they can contact you direct from your profile page.
Check to see if we offer your Crew Skill here:
and feel free to list your side or subsidiary business, too. Check our list to see if you fit here:
It's an excellent way to promote yourself, promote your skills, and offer you the ability to reach out to those who are hiring using your profile in crewnewmexico.com. It's an excellent tool, and we are proud to offer a substantial discount to the men and women who make the New Mexico Film Industry click.
Simply enter IATSE50 in the promotional code area during checkout for your 50% discount.
Good luck, and welcome aboard!
Join Our Mailing List
We've inserted a little doo-hickey where you can add yourself to the crewnewmexico.com mailing list. Its over there, just to the right on the top of the blog page. Sign up now! We don't share or sell your email - but we do send you occasional emails about what's up in the industry, and the timely crewnewmexico.com discount special!
New Technological Advancement at crewnewmexico.com
We're thrilled to let everyone know that our site users will now be able to search for everything they need on much of the crewnewmexico.com site by Keyword!!! Previously, everything was only searchable by dropdown lists that were a bit hard to navigate because, quite simply, there's a lot of things to look for in the film industry.
So, starting today, in the Production Support search section of the site, you'll see that you can now search using an intuitive typing tool that brings up your options as your type letters into the search field. Now, as we're still a little bit new, and because there's over 500 categories, you may find that you get "null" results, ie, we don't have anyone in that category, but we're adding people every day and are on target to have over 1,000 people and businesses listed within 1 year of our launch. (know someone who should be in one of our categories? Let us know - we'll give you a special gift for referring a new member!)
That's why we've implemented another genious (sp?) thing: the "Search all results in this search category" function, which allows you to see every single person or business in a category. Simply go to a search page, click that button, and you'll see all the listings in that category. Great for browsing and getting to know who does what. You'll notice that the same person or category may be listed more than 1 time. That's because the members of our Support and Crew categories can be listed in up to 6 specialties, and you get to see them all.
We're going to be implementing the same Keyword serach tech for the Crew search, and for Film Locations search areas of the site within days so, again, you'll just pop in some words and the search will be a lot more intuitive. Both our advertisers and users will be happy with our new changes.
And, hey, we're an open book. If you have an idea of something you'd like to see on crewnewmexico.com, or some way we can make our site more powerful or useful - let us know. We're friendly. (866) 986-8884, or info@crewnewmexico.com.
Curious About Joining crewnewmexico.com?
Curious if you or your business would make a good fit for our directory? Want to learn more about why crewnewmexico.com is far and away the best way to get exposure in the New Mexico film industry? Give us a call or send an email any time.
Why settle for a simple (boring, hard to find, and you have to email the state every time you want to change a single thing) text listing on the state directory when you can get an entire personalized website within the crewnewmexico.com network just for you. You can feature photos, bio, film credits, general resumes, demo reels, and all your contact details -- and you get to manage the entire page on your own, 24/7 with a simple log-in account.
Update your credits in real time. Change your photos 10x a day. Use your crewnewmexico.com web address to promote yourself - link to it from your Facebook or MySpace page. Put it on your email signature or business cards. Here's an example - click this link: crewnewmexico.com/vintagemovieposters. If you send this link in an email, its hot, its clickable, it can be sent along with a job application or proposal.
We've designed our system so that you productions and fellow industry people can find you fast - and learn all about you through our search interface And, we've set it up so that you can advertise your own webpage far and wide. It allows productions to find you and contact you directly, without going through any filters. We blog about you. We get your page indexed in google.
Try this: Do a google search for Ross Nederhoff. Or Jennifer Ann Henry. See where they land in search results? #1 or #2 Spot. Try doing that yourself! We get you exposure!
There's no film industry system in the world that compares to crewnewmexico.com. We'd love to tell you more, so contact us any time. (866) 986-8884, or membership@crewnewmexico.com.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Welcome Location Scout Susan Harris to the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com
We'd like to introduce you to Susan Harris who's just joined the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com in the CREW category - as a location scout!
Susan is a long time Santa Fe and Northern New Mexico real estate professional who has extensive experience sourcing properties. She has worked with discerning property seekers for over 25 years, and has a large inventory of homes, open land, farms, and ranches upon which she can call for location scouting needs. She has been voted as Santa Fe's top realtor, is a consummate professional, and is an invaluable resource when you're looking for film locations throughout the Santa Fe and Northern New Mexico area. She has strong and trusted relationships with property owners, and will work with productions to secure the location they need.
Susan Harris Location Scout
crewnewmexico.com/susanharrislocationscout
Susan is a long time Santa Fe and Northern New Mexico real estate professional who has extensive experience sourcing properties. She has worked with discerning property seekers for over 25 years, and has a large inventory of homes, open land, farms, and ranches upon which she can call for location scouting needs. She has been voted as Santa Fe's top realtor, is a consummate professional, and is an invaluable resource when you're looking for film locations throughout the Santa Fe and Northern New Mexico area. She has strong and trusted relationships with property owners, and will work with productions to secure the location they need.
Susan Harris Location Scout
crewnewmexico.com/susanharrislocationscout
Introducing One of the Newest Members of the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com - Karla Linden of Masterpiece Massage
Karla Linden of Masterpiece Massage is the first massage therapist in the Albuquerque area to join the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com. She is a skilled and powerful healer, and we're thrilled to have her on board. We know that she'll be very busy working on New Mexico film professionals!
Karla is a New Mexico licensed and nationally certified massage therapist with over 20 years experience, including working in the film industry on cast, crew, studio execs, stunts people and primary talent as well as providing therapeutic massage services for theater companies, and over 100 different touring bands.
Karla has over over 2,500 hours in advanced technique training, and is available short-notice, same-day, after-hours, and most weekends. Her specialties include Deep Tissue, Sports Massage, Swedish, Neuromuscular, Acupressure, Reiki, and healing touch for pregnant women.
Karla Linden, Masterpiece Massage
crewnewmexico.com/masterpiecemassage
and www.masterpiecemassage.com
Karla is a New Mexico licensed and nationally certified massage therapist with over 20 years experience, including working in the film industry on cast, crew, studio execs, stunts people and primary talent as well as providing therapeutic massage services for theater companies, and over 100 different touring bands.
Karla has over over 2,500 hours in advanced technique training, and is available short-notice, same-day, after-hours, and most weekends. Her specialties include Deep Tissue, Sports Massage, Swedish, Neuromuscular, Acupressure, Reiki, and healing touch for pregnant women.
Karla Linden, Masterpiece Massage
crewnewmexico.com/masterpiecemassage
and www.masterpiecemassage.com
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Register to Vote!! Last day for New Mexico is October 7th
Don't dilly dally. Make sure you're registered to vote!
Check your status here, and if you're not registered, do it now!
Check your status here, and if you're not registered, do it now!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
New Members from the 25% off Deal!
We're rolling out the mat! Their profile pages are being built right now, but here's who's coming in the next few days:
- Jay Goodman and Associates - Attorneys at Law (contract, family, entertainment law)
- A great new Furnished Rental in ABQ!
- Jon Cross - Art Department PA!
- Chris Quintana and his picture cars
- A realtor
- A new film location
- A location scout
- A great piece of Santa Fe real estate
- A furnished rental!
- Production and wardrobe rentals
- An Entertainment Lawyer
- An Iconic New Mexico Restaurant
- An Art Delivery Service
- A Digital Production Company
- A Producer, Writer, and Director
- An Emmy Award winning Editor
And another, now live: The Holiday Inn Santa Fe comes on board as a Casting Facility, Wrap Party Location, and Airport Shuttle. When you contact our members, be sure to tell them you saw them on crewnewmexico.com
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
The Great 25% off crewnewmexico.com Deal!
crewnewmexico.com is New Mexico’s Premiere Film Industry Resource, and we’re growing fast! We’ve added nearly 125 advertisers to our directory since launching 4 months ago, and we want to celebrate!
Whether you’re already a member and want additional exposure, or joining for the first time - we’re offering 25% off all new listings if you Sign Up Now through October 6th! Rates for a basic membership start at just $79/year, so this is a great time to come onboard. Tell a friend!
Simply Sign Up online (enter WELCOME25 in the promo code area during checkout for your discount), give us a call, or send an email - we’re happy to answer any questions, create your account for you, and explain how listing on crewnewmexico.com puts you quickly and easily on industry radar.
Film and TV is the fastest growing industry in the state. We’re growing with it, and want you to come along for the ride!
Give us a ring at (866) 986-8884, email us at membership@crewnewmexico.com, or click here to learn more about membership.
This offer is only valid till Monday, October 6th, so, like, act fast.
New Mexico Film Expo! This Weekend!
The Santa Fe Film Festival will stage its 3rd Annual New Mexico Film Expo Thursday, October 2 through Sunday, October 5 at the New Mexico Film Museum at the Jean Cocteau, with continued screenings on Monday, October 6 at the Film Center at Cinemacafe. For info, visit their site.
As a presentation of the Santa Fe Film Festival, the New Mexico Film Expo launches the SFFF´s efforts to stage New Mexico films, panels, and workshops year-round, as a companion to our year-round cinema. We are starting a program October 6th, to continue the first Monday of each month, to highlight New Mexico film with screenings of films selected to inspire audience feedback. We also plan, in 2009, to stage panels and workshops for New Mexico filmmakers, in conjunction with the Film Office, the Film Museum, and other organizations which share our mission to promote and support New Mexico Film.
During the NM Film Expo, audience reactions and constructive feedback are encouraged. One of the goals of this expo is to strengthen our sense of a community of New Mexico filmmakers working together to make great films and share them with one another. This Expo offers us all a chance to share our work, get feedback and to network and meet one another and find lifelong working partners and friends.
Tickets are $5 for each screening, available at the door. A ticket stub gets you free admittance to both panels and all parties.
Over 110 films will be shown in total. A panel of esteemed jurors will make recommendations for select films to be shown at the Ninth Annual Santa Fe Film Festival, December 3 to 7. Selections will also be based on Audience Choice culled from a ballot where patrons select top three choices in various genres.
Hollywood on the Huron - from the LA Times
First it was Louisiana. Then it was New Mexico and New York. Now it's Michigan's turn as the latest hot spot for film production.
Not since Michael Moore's documentary "Roger and Me" has the Great Lakes state garnered so much attention from Hollywood. Once considered a relative backwater as a film destination, Michigan has lured more than 60 features and made-for-TV movies this year, up from just three last year, according to the Michigan Film Office.
Not since Michael Moore's documentary "Roger and Me" has the Great Lakes state garnered so much attention from Hollywood. Once considered a relative backwater as a film destination, Michigan has lured more than 60 features and made-for-TV movies this year, up from just three last year, according to the Michigan Film Office.
The projects include upcoming films as well as recently wrapped movies such as Clint Eastwood's "Gran Torino," a drama about at Korean War vet who befriends his young neighbor; "Whip It!," a Drew Barrymore-directed comedy starring Ellen Page of "Juno" fame; and the sci-fi thriller "Butterfly Effect: Revelation." Twentieth Century Fox, Warner Bros. and Sony Pictures all have films lined up to shoot in Michigan this fall.
Under Michigan's program, producers get 40 cents back for every $1 they spend on filming and qualify for an additional 2% spending rebate if the film is shot in designated "core communities," including Detroit and Flint.
The rebate covers salaries of crew members and above-the-line talent up to $2 million per person (so that wouldn't cover the typical fees commanded by the likes of a Brad Pitt or a George Clooney). Additionally, the law provides a 25% tax credit for companies that invest in new film and digital media studios in the state and would cover 50% of on-the-job training expenses for Michigan residents working as crew members.
Thanks to such incentives, Michigan expects to pull in nearly $400 million in film revenue this year, a welcome boost to a state that has been buffeted by the woes of the Big Three automakers.Under Michigan's program, producers get 40 cents back for every $1 they spend on filming and qualify for an additional 2% spending rebate if the film is shot in designated "core communities," including Detroit and Flint.
The rebate covers salaries of crew members and above-the-line talent up to $2 million per person (so that wouldn't cover the typical fees commanded by the likes of a Brad Pitt or a George Clooney). Additionally, the law provides a 25% tax credit for companies that invest in new film and digital media studios in the state and would cover 50% of on-the-job training expenses for Michigan residents working as crew members.
"The response has been magnificent," says Anthony Wenson, chief operating officer for the Michigan Film Office. "We've not only brought dollars into the state, but we've created new jobs."
How long Michigan enjoys its moment in the sun -- yes, there's sun in Michigan -- remains to be seen. The state doesn't have the quantity of crews or the production facilities of more established locales such as Vancouver, Canada, and New York. And, of course, there's nothing to stop another state from coming along and cooking up even more generous incentives.
But for now, Michigan's success is a stark reminder of California's continued vulnerability to runaway production.
Much to the lament of unions and industry officials, California does not have an incentive program to keep its signature industry at home. This, despite having a former movie star in Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
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