Michigan Film Incentives May Be on the Chopping Block

Production Tax Incentives, such as New Mexico's 25% rebate to productions, are at the heart of today's film industry. Michigan has the most aggressive incentive program in the country, but its likely not sustainable, as the article below will demonstrate.

We're proud that New Mexico's incentives are designed to be sustainable and increasingly transparent, and while other states may come and go on the film landscape, we're a core part of the industry for some time to come. - crewnewmexico.com

The tax credit bringing many Hollywood studios to Michigan could soon see some major changes.

Senate Bill 404, a bipartisan proposal that would top the film tax credit off at $50 million and reduce the available refunds by 7 percent, is being discussed.

The refundable film tax credits would be cut to 35 percent from their current rate of 42 percent.

The bill was introduced on March 25 and is sponsored by State Sens. Nancy Cassis, R-Novi; Jud Gilbert, R-Algonac; Tom George, R-Kalamazoo; and Mickey Switalski, R-Roseville.

“We recognize that Michigan has a significant, large deficit of $2.8 billion, and part of what’s contributing to that is the giveaway money to Hollywood producers,” Cassis said.

The bill would be keeping the film tax credit at $50 million, which would scale back a little on overly generous giveaway money, she said.

“These movie producers are currently not paying taxes in Michigan, but are still getting money,” Cassis said.

The bill would just restore funds to other areas of the state, such as police, fire and Medicare, she said.
Cassis said the bill also would support commercial ads and more jobs.

“We would be able to provide credit for commercials to be done here, and we would hire 90 percent of Michigan workers first,” she said.

In the long run, Cassis said, Bill 404 would recognize all the refundable credits that are not necessarily vital and giving relief to other businesses.

State Sen. Jud Gilbert said even though the majority is not in favor of the bill, it is still necessary.

“The bill is necessary because films last for a short duration, which means the money will run out before anyone gets the subsidy,” Gilbert said.

He said the bill would divert money into a tax relief.

“If the bill passes, people will see gradual employment increases in small businesses with longer durations,” Gilbert said.

To read the full article, click here.

Governor’s Council on Film and Media Industries Announces Town Hall Meeting in Las Cruces

SANTA FE – The Governor’s Council on Film and Media Industries will host a town hall meeting to gather input on the future of the state’s burgeoning film and media industries. The event is free and open to the public and will be held from 1:00 to 4:30 PM Thursday, October 8th at the Alma d' arte Charter High School in Las Cruces.

“This is an opportunity for the Council to get direct input from the public so that we can help update Governor Richardson’s plan of action.” said Chairman Michael Kaye.

The event is being held in association with the High Tech Consortium of Southern New Mexico. The schedule includes a listening session, three break-out strategy sessions and a final wrap-up session.

Participants registering online will have an opportunity to help identify breakout sessions from a list including Opportunities in Film; Opportunities in Games, Modeling and Simulation; Building Connections between South and North; Building effective Groups and Organizations; and Developing Education Strategies – or they may suggest their own.

Pre-registration is suggested, as space is limited. To pre-register, visit www.altmedianm.org. Those who cannot attend are encouraged to submit their comments at the online form as well.

Contact: Rochelle Bussey 505.476-5604

Also, don’t miss the free Las Cruces informational session about New Mexico Filmmakers Program and how to prepare a New Visions 2009 application with Program Director, Trish Lopez. Wednesday, October 7th – 7:00pm | Las Cruces: CMI Theatre in Milton Hall on NMSU Campus.

Space is limited, so please call (505) 476-5600 to reserve a seat or for additional information. Applications can be printed online at www.nmfilm.com or picked up in person at the NM Film Office at 418 Montezuma Avenue, Santa Fe, NM. Deadline for applications is October 16, 2009.

Albuquerque Studios Gets Into the Incentive Groove For Music & Sound

Albuquerque Studios and Los Angeles-based house Groove Addicts have entered into a strategic partnership whereby the latter's music catalog for film and TV productions can be accessed for projects being made in New Mexico, thus tapping into that state's 25 percent rebate incentive.

Uses for the catalog include temp tracks, background cues, songs, music supervision, trailer music or sound design for commercial TV or film projects. More than 40,000 music tracks will be available for immediate download and license from Groove Addicts' servers at Albuquerque Studios.

Groove Addicts produces a dozen catalogs in-house, in addition to handling many leading music catalogs from around the world. The company continues to expand its libraries' inventories for film, TV, radio, video, audio, video game and multimedia producers.

The deal between Albuquerque Studios and Groove Addicts brings music and sound into the incentives arena at an opportune time given the state of the economy, resulting in tighter budgets and increased cost consciousness.

"This is a perfect complement to our existing production services. It is an extreme value that is unique to New Mexico, and fits right in with our plan to extend the broad range of services that are available to Albuquerque Studios' clientele. We look forward to working with Groove Addicts' principal Dain Blair, and the creative energy his entire team brings to the table of the New Mexico film industry," said Albuquerque Studios' COO Smerigan.

Blair, who has been an integral part of the acquisitions and licensing of rights for projects involving artists such as, Madonna, U2, and The Police, and feature films such as Iron Man, No Country for Old Men, and I Am Legend, stated "I see this as a win/win/win situation for Albuquerque Studios, their clients, and Groove Addicts....adding a first-class music solution for their [Albuquerque Studios'] clients."

SAG: Four Hardline Horsemen the Boardroom

from the Digital Media Law blog by Jonathan Handel.

Thursday’s SAG election was a victory for the moderate coalition. Yet, strangely enough, the leaders of the losing hardline faction will all find seats on the national board, and will continue to be a shadow government within the union’s Hollywood board—a board on which none of the key moderate leaders will be voting members.

Yes, the moderates (Unite for Strength (UFS) / USAN / RBD / independents) won the national offices – President and Secretary-Treasurer – and picked up additional national board seats and many on the Hollywood board as well. But with SAG, the story is never simple.

In fact, paradoxically, 1^st VP and failed Membership First presidential candidate Anne-Marie Johnson will probably continue as 1^st VP, ex-president Alan Rosenberg will almost certainly be back on the national board in a matter of days despite winning only an alternate seat, MF leader David Joliffe will probably be on the Hollywood board and effectively on the national board, and MF leader Kent McCord continues on the national and Hollywood boards.

Meanwhile, none of the key moderate leaders will be on the Hollywood board— Unite for Strength leaders Ned Vaughn, Assaf Cohen, Ken Howard and Amy Aquino are all off of that board, at least as voting members (the latter two will serve ex-officio, as non-voting members). Tough independent and former presidential candidate Morgan Fairchild remains, but she’s not a member of the UFS slate and thus doesn’t occupy a leadership position in that group. UFS-ers Adam Arkin and Amy Brenneman also remain, and perhaps will emerge to fill the gap.

To read the full post, click here.

White Sands Film Festival Call for Submissions!

As a sponsor of the White Sands International Film Festival, crewnewmexico.com would like to announce that the festival is now open for submissions!

The White Sands International Film Festival is now open for submissions for the 2010 program. Early Bird deadline is October 15th. Dates of the festival are April 15th-18th, 2010.

The WSIFF is currently accepting feature length and short films in the documentary and narrative category with particular focus on multi-cultural themes and background. Any films from any genres accepted from around the world. Please note that foreign language films should have sub-titles.

We are particularly interested in films that...

• · deal with contemporary issues
• · celebrate the human spirit
• · explore the Latino and or Hispanic World
• · have been made in New Mexico
• · combine good story telling, writing, acting and direction.

For complete submission information,
please visit www.wsiff.com

SAG Moderates Win Presidency, and More!

From The Digital Media Law blog by Jonathan Handel

In a victory for the SAG moderate coalition (Unite for Strength / USAN / independents), the UFS candidates for president, Ken Howard, and secretary, Amy Aquino, won the union's national offices.

However, the election was close: Howard's total was slightly less than the two hardline candidates added together (Anne-Marie Johnson and Seymour Cassel) and Aquino's was slightly more than that of incumbent Connie Stevens. So the union is still very divided, and Howard acknowledged that the results were not a landslide and that the union is very divided, while saying that he planned to reach out to MF supporters.

On the national board, the moderates showed strength as well: They picked up 4 of 11 seats in Hollywood and held all of the NY and regional (RBD) seats. I estimate that this brings the moderate's board majority to around 60%, vs. 40% for MF, but that's a very rough calculation and I'm not sure at this point.

On the Hollywood board, the results were more dramatic: 21 of 33 Hollywood board seats went to the moderates. Added to the 6 they (and independents) already control, that's 27 out of 55 - just shy of 50%.

UFS spokesman Ned Vaughn said he expected to see SAG and AFTRA jointly negotiating wih the studios next year. Howard said he'd reach out to AFTRA and the other guids. On the subject of merger with AFTRA, Howard disputed claims from 6 years ago that merger would hurt SAG members' pensions.

The challenge for the moderates is to build a record of accomplishment, hire David White on a permanent basis, build relations with AFTRA and other guilds/unions, pick up more seats in next years' July-Sept elections, then go into negotiations with the studios Oct. 1 (2010, i.e., next year). After that - work on merger. A tough road ahead.

Casting Panel, Hosted by New Mexico Women in Film

CASTING PANEL WITH JANE JENKINS AND JANET HIRSHENSON – SAT. OCT. 31:

WHAT: Panel on Casting with Janet Hirshenson, CSA and Jane Jenkins, CSA of The Casting Company in L.A. – Moderated by Jo Edna Boldin, CSA


WHEN: Saturday, October 31, 2009

TIME: 1:00pm – 3:00pm

WHERE: Santa Fe – El Museo Cultural

COST: Free to NMWIF Members; $20.00 for Non-Members (Cash or Check at the door)


Don't miss this opportunity to hear two of the premiere casting directors of our time talk about their work and the world of casting for many major Hollywood directors. Enjoy refreshments, networking and the opportunity to buy their book, A Star is Found. Following is the link to their bios: http://www.facebook.com/l/b3035;www.janeandjanet.com/profile.html

CASTING WORKSHOP WITH JANE JENKINS AND JANET HIRSHENSON – SUN. NOV. 1:

WHAT: Casting Workshop with Janet Hirshenson, CSA and Jane Jenkins, CSA of The Casting Company in L.A.
WHEN: Sunday, November 1, 2009

TIME: 10am – 5pm with a lunch break (Participants are responsible for their lunch)

WHERE: Santa Fe – El Museo Cultural

COST: $175.00 for NMWIF Members, $225.00 for Non-Members

TO REGISTER: We must receive your submission package, along with a check or money order for the full amount due by Oct. 20, 2009. SEATING IS LIMITED. Please send your submission package to NMWIF, PO Box 33351, Santa Fe, NM 87594, Attn: Casting Workshop. Make sure to include the following items/information:

Name
> Contact info: email, snail mail and phone number where you can be reached
> NMWIF Members: Expiration date (from the back of your membership card)
> Age Range (within 10 years)
> Head shot with a resume attached to the back
> Submissions will be processed in the order received. A confirmation of your reservation will be e-mailed to you. Any submissions received after the class limit has been reached will be put on a waiting list and returned via U.S. Mail. Reservations may be cancelled for a full refund up to 7 days in advance of the workshop. After that, if we cannot find a replacement for you from our waiting list, you will forfeit the registration fee.

We hope you are able to take advantage of this rare opportunity to participate in a workshop with two of Hollywood’s most famous casting directors.

New Mexico Film Expo! This Weekend!

The Santa Fe Film Festival, Inc, presents the 2009 New Mexico Film Expo, this weekend in Santa Fe!

A presentation of work from New Mexico filmmakers. 80 films over 4 days. From 1 minute films, to features, its brilliant way to see what your peers and fellow filmmakers are creating.

Jean Cocueau Theatre, Sept 25-28
Screenings Schedule:
Friday 4-11pm
Saturday 10am-midnight
Sunday 11am-10pm
Monday 5-10pm

Tickets $7.00 pp (filmmaker +2 guest comp) - a great deal!!

Q&A will follow collectively after each screening time if filmmakers are in attendance. Winners in a given category will be entered directly into the Santa Fe Film Festival which takes place December 2 - 6. The overall winner for Best New Mexico Filmmaker will be announced at the Awards Ceremony Saturday, December 5.

New Mexico Women in Film - In Las Cruces

A local chapter of New Mexico Women in Film is just getting organized in Las Cruces.

There will be an informational meeting on Saturday, October 10, 2009 from 1:00 to 3:00 in the THX theatre, room 171, in Milton Hall, NMSU Campus. This organization is a great way for you meet other filmmakers and working artists from across the state.

Men as well as women are encouraged to be a part of the group.

Refreshments will be provided. Any questions, feel free to ask Amy Lanasa: amyla@nmsu.edu

Filmmaking incentives losing glamour in cash-strapped states

In a Troy office building where advertising executives once courted Motor City automakers, film production workers discuss which stretch of downtown Detroit would offer the best sense of urban decay. Down the hall, in a warehouse that has been converted to a makeshift studio, dozens of prop builders are fashioning blocks of foam and stacks of plywood to build a set for a rocky mine shaft.

For the next 11 weeks, the cast and crew of "Red Dawn," a remake of the 1980s action thriller that Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer is scheduled to release next year, will be working in Michigan. The film, starring Chris Hemsworth and Josh Hutcherson, is one of dozens of Hollywood productions drawn in part by the state's generous film tax-credit program, which could shave as much as $14 million off the movie's estimated $54-million budget.

Nearly 95 miles to the west in the state capital of Lansing, lawmakers are wrestling with how to bridge a $2.7-billion budget gap -- and whether a state with the highest unemployment rate in the nation can afford to subsidize the movie business. The budget woes have hit cities across the state and have forced the layoffs of thousands of Michigan police officers and firefighters in recent years.

To read the full article, click here.

Site Visitor Map for 9.22!

Curious if listing on crewnewmexico.com will get you any exposure? With 8,000-10,000 visitors/month searching our directory, the answer is a big yes. But don't take our word for it - have a look at our site visitor map for today alone! Contact us a membership@crewnewmexico.com to learn how we can help you or your business reach out to the NM Film Industry.

Bryan Cranston of Breaking Bad, Filmed in New Mexico, Wins Second Emmy!

So many crewnewmexicans are involved in making Breaking Bad, and we're thrilled that Bryan Cranston has pulled off an amazing feat - his second consecutive Emmy. Great job by all.

Bryan Cranston has done it again: Breaking Bad's Emmy-winning actor picked up his second consecutive trophy as Best Actor in a Drama Series at the 61st Annual Primetime Emmy awards Sunday night. "Lee Trevino was struck by lightning twice," Cranston said, accepting the award. "Now I know how he feels."

The veteran actor faced stiff competition for the honor: Dexter's Michael C. Hall, House's Hugh Laurie, In Treatment's Gabriel Byrne, The Mentalist's Simon Baker and AMC's own Jon Hamm of Mad Men. (Click here to read more about Mad Men's Emmy wins.)

The award was Breaking Bad's second of the year, the first of which went to Lynne Willingham, who picked up the best editing trophy -- her second consecutive as well -- at the Creative Arts Emmys last week.

AMCtv.com congratulates Breaking Bad and Mad Men for all their successes.

Great Acting Class This Sunday! Register Now!

On Camera Auditioning: Fall Class at Healing Gate

September 27 - December 6, 2009
(no class Thanksgiving week)

Go big or go home! When you’re ready to explore the acting scene beyond extra work it’s time to make sure that you’re audition technique is at its best. Develop your audition skills in all areas of on camera acting so you know what to expect and how to be your best! Cold readings, working from actual film scripts, and watching yourself on camera will give you an edge and build your confidence.

Ages 18 and up
Sundays 3:00 pm-5:00 pm
Cost: $195.00

Location
3212 Monte Vista Blvd NE
Albuquerque, NM 87106
At Healing Gate near UNM

Simply click the registration button, and then pay online with the Pay Now button.

Iowa Film Tax Credit Program Suspended Top Economic Development Chief Resigns, Film Office Manager Suspended

As the film tax incentive programs around the nation, and world, become increasingly competitive, and critical to the industry, we're committed to keeping you informed about industry developments, including in one of our "competing" states, Iowa. New Mexico has recently launched a program which should prevent similar abuses in our state. - crewnewmexico.com

DES MOINES, Iowa -- Allegations of misspent money from state tax credits has led to the state's director of economic development to resign and Gov. Culver voicing freezing money spent to promote filmmaking in Iowa.

An internal memo dated Wednesday said that the Economic Development Department has been investigating reports of misspent money. Mike Tramontina, who has led the office since 2007, resigned on Friday, effective immediately.

Culver released a statement Friday afternoon announcing Mike Tramontina's resignation.

The news release also said that Culver sent a letter to Robert Boken, the chairman of the Iowa Economic Development Board, saying that he is troubled by information that insufficient procedures were in place to "assure a full and accurate accounting of expenditures made to enable persons to qualify for tax credits" under the state's film, television and promotion program.

Culver has ordered that no further expenditures for the program be approved and that no further tax credit certificates be issued.

The Economic Development Department oversees Iowa's film promotion efforts.

Iowa Film Office manager Tom Wheeler has been put on paid administrative leave. Wheeler has directly overseen the program which has lured at least 20 film productions to Iowa.

An internal memo said questions arose over two luxury cars. Before he resigned, Tramontina wrote, "The Code clearly authorizes the purchase of vehicles but the fact they were luxury vehicles (Mercedes and a Land Rover), were not used directly on the film and the amount of credits claimed was the full purchase price rather than the lease cost during the project were judged to be abuses."

To read the full article, click here.

Event to Honor the NM Film Industry

A Special Event Honoring Members of the Film/Media Industry

Where Film and Stage Converge in a Comedy of Delightful Fun and Frivolity
Opening our 80th Anniversary Season with a Sneak Preview of
SHAKESPEARE IN HOLLYWOOD

Written by Ken Ludwig Directed by Henry Avery
Thursday, September 24 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Advance $10.00/At-Door $15.00
Call for reservations 505.242.4750

Meet & Mingle at an After-Party at St. Clair Winery & Bistro –September 24th
Light Refreshments – Music – No-Host Bar with Happy Hour Pricing for Wine by the Glass.

Door Prize Drawings
901 Rio Grande Boulevard NW

Shakespeare in Hollywood runs September 25 through October 11, 2009.

Jon Hendry and Ann Lerner are going to do celebrity cameo’s on this night and then we are going to have a really fun party at St. Clair with GREAT door prizes. Hendry will purchase the first 20 tickets for any IATSE 480 union member who wants to see Shakespeare In Hollywood and go to the after party at St. Clair. But you have to respond fast. Call Albuquerque Little Theatre’s box office 242-4750 and identify yourself as an IATSE member (no cheating).

Governor’s Council on Film and Media Industries Announces Town Hall Meeting in Las Cruces

SANTA FE – The Governor’s Council on Film and Media Industries will host a
town hall meeting to gather input on the future of the state’s burgeoning
film and media industries. The event is free and open to the public and
will be held from 1:00 to 4:30 PM Thursday, October 8th at the Alma d'
arte Charter
High School in Las Cruces.

“This is an opportunity for the Council to get direct input from the
public so that we can help update Governor Richardson’s plan of action.” said
Chairman Michael Kaye.

The event is being held in association with the High Tech Consortium of
Southern New Mexico. The schedule includes a listening session, three
break-out strategy sessions and a final wrap-up session.

Participants registering online will have an opportunity to help identify
breakout sessions from a list including Opportunities in Film;
Opportunities in Games, Modeling and Simulation; Building Connections between South and
North; Building effective Groups and Organizations; and Developing
Education Strategies – or they may suggest their own.

Pre-registration is suggested, as space is limited. To pre-register, visit
www.altmedianm.org.Those who cannot attend are encouraged to submit their
comments at the online form as well.

Event schedule is as follows:

12:00 – 1:00 PM On-site check-in and registration

1:00 – 2:30 PM Council Introduction and Listening Session

2:45 – 4:00 PM Break-out Sessions (Topics to be determined)

4:15 – 5:00 PM Wrap-up Session

5:30 – 7:00 PM Following the Town Hall, IATSE 480 will host a post-event
networking reception. Location: Meson de Mesilla, 1803 Avenida de Mesilla.
Phone number: 575-525-9212; web: www.mesondemesilla.com

The Alma d'arte Charter High School is located at 402 W. Court Avenue
(downtown Las Cruces in the historic Alameda Neighborhood District between
Alameda and Court Avenue), in Las Cruces. For more information on the Town
Hall event, please contact Governor’s Council on Film and Media Industries
Executive Director, Rochelle Bussey at rochelle@nmfilm.com or call
505-476-5604

Special Event for Film/Media Community

The Albuquerque Little Theater is having a special event to honor members of the Film/Media Industry in New Mexico with a party and sneak preview of its 80th Anniversary Opening Show, "Shakespeare in Hollywood" on Thursday, September 24th.

Where Film and Stage Converge in a Comedy of Delightful Fun and Frivolity
Opening our 80th Anniversary Season with a Sneak Preview of


SHAKESPEARE IN HOLLYWOOD
Written by Ken Ludwig Directed by Henry Avery
Thursday, September 24 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Advance $10.00/At-Door $15.00
Call for reservations 505.242.4750

Show Dates: Friday, September 25 – Sunday, October 11
Meet & Mingle at an After-Party at St. Clair Winery & Bistro
Light Refreshments – Music – No-Host Bar with Happy Hour Pricing for Wine by the Glass
Door Prize Drawings
901 Rio Grande Boulevard NW

County backs loan for new film studio: Development of complex off N.M. 14 could begin within weeks

Santa Fe County will lend $6 million to a production company to build a film studio complex on N.M. 14 near the Penitentiary of New Mexico.

County Commissioners approved the loan unanimously Friday morning in a special meeting held in a chamber packed with local film union members.

The county will generate the $6 million for the loan through the sale of bonds backed by gross-receipts tax revenues.

Executives of Santa Fe Studios -- the entity that will use the money to build the studio -- will provide a $2 million letter of credit or escrow payment to secure the loan.

If Santa Fe Studios defaults on the loan, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 480 would take over operating the studios on behalf of the county.

Though the general terms were agreed to in Friday's meeting, several specifics of the deal have yet to be finalized.

Chief among the unresolved details is the extent of financial liability the union would assume in the event Santa Fe Studios, owned by Lance Hool, 59, his brother Conrad Hool, 61 and Lance Hool's 34-year-old son Jason Hool, defaults on the loan. The company's board also includes executives from Warner Bros., SONY/Columbia Pictures and Twentieth Century Fox.

"If (Santa Fe Studios owners) default, the filmmakers union would be taking on all of the debt," said Commissioner Liz Stefancis after the vote. "That's what we intended."

But IATSE Local 480 business agent Jon Hendry had a different perception of what had been approved in the meeting.

"We're not getting into guaranteeing any private debt," Hendry said. "We never offered that and we wouldn't be prepared to do that because it would put us in a position where we would have a vested interest in (the Hools') failure and we're not going to do that."

County Attorney Stephen Ross said resolving the terms of the union's involvement is a small but important detail "because the consequences of not having enough security are serious."

Hendry said 525 of the 1,200 IATSE members in New Mexico members are based in Santa Fe County, so there is strong support for the project within the union.

The Hools have been trying for years to realize a film studio project on a 65-acre tract of land off N.M. 14 that has since been designated a media district.

Santa Fe Studios and the county agreed in June 2008 that the film production company would purchase the land and build a four-stage, $40 million eco-friendly film studio. As part of that deal, the county agreed to contribute about $3.5 million worth of water rights and infrastructure improvements to the project. The studio promised to provide 500,000 hours worth of above-minimum wage jobs in return. The studio project also is slated to receive $10 million in economic development subsidies from the state Department of Finance.

But the Hools have had some difficulty securing the balance of funding needed to meet the terms of that agreement.

The version of the project discussed Friday calls for a scaled-back $16 million start -- with reduced square footage and more flexibility regarding the type of facilities that must be produced -- with a gradual phasing in of more development over time.

All five county commissioners spoke in favor of the project Friday, lauding it as a clean industry that would provide a myriad of economic development benefits for the county.

Lance Hool said making the studio complex a reality in current economic conditions has been tough, but he has been encouraged by the strong support shown by local government and union officials.

To read the full article, click here!

Meet the Mayor of Albuquerque!

Invitation to a "Marty Party"

Drop by and meet the Mayor of Albuquerque. Ask him questions, voice your opinions. (Not a fundraiser - leave your checkbooks at home). Mayor Chavez has been a big supporter of the film industry. Come thank him.

Join Melinda Potcher, Kelly & Kyle Cole, Keith Johnson

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

5:30 pm – 8:00 pm

3400 Anderson Avenue SE

RSVP: 259-6397

Southwest Gay and Lesbian Film Festival - Call for Volunteers

The film festival is just over three weeks away and it is time to call on our volunteers. To get first dibs on this year's volunteer positions, find out the movie selection, and show your support for the Southwest Gay and Lesbian Film Festival; join us at NYPD pizza downtown next Sunday, the 20th for pizza and volunteer sign up.

Hope to see you there!

Erika-Lee Turner, Donavan Yazzie, Zurii Hall Volunteer Coordinators
Closet Cinema
2009 Southwest Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
Erika-Lee: 505-550-9685
Donavan: 505-870-9079
email: volunteer@closetcinema.org
web-site: www.closetcinema.org

Gov Bill Richardson Announces New Reporting Policy for Film Tax Credit Program; Tax and Rev Department Creates Special Unit to Handle Film

Press Release

SANTA FE – Governor Bill Richardson today announced that the New Mexico Film Office will implement a procedure to make public specific financial information related to the state’s film tax credit program. New Mexico offers productions a 25% credit for qualified New Mexico expenses, including salaries for local crew, facilities, lodging, construction materials, equipment rentals, and a number of other categories. In addition, the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department is in the process of creating a specialized unit to review and process film tax credit submissions.

“The tax credit program has helped establish New Mexico as a leader in film and television production and has brought the state thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in revenue,” said Governor Richardson. “The data provided under this new policy will give taxpayers a detailed look at what film companies spend to qualify for the credits.”

Since 2003, 127 major film and television productions have been made in New Mexico with a resulting economic impact of approximately $3 billion. In the state there are an estimated 10,000 direct and indirect jobs related to the film industry, and over 200 local film-specific businesses and services.

Production companies that request a tax credit will be required to provide the New Mexico Film Office with detailed information regarding the expenses submitted to qualify for the credit. Previously this data had only been provided to the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department where by law it must be kept confidential. Under the new policy, the film office will provide aggregate totals in specific categories for all film and television productions on a fiscal year basis.

“As a government entity, we have a responsibility to provide to our legislature and taxpayers information which substantiates our belief in the film industry as a major economic driver, and which meaningfully relates to the citizens and businesses of the state the benefits received in return for offering production incentives,” said Eric Witt, Governor Richardson’s Deputy Chief of Staff and Film Policy Advisor. “We believe this policy will protect truly proprietary industry information while fulfilling our fundamental responsibility to the people of New Mexico to provide meaningful, accurate data regarding these programs.”

The new film unit at the state Taxation and Revenue Department will consist of four auditors and a supervisor and is expected to be operating within the next month. The department is recognized throughout the film industry for its competence and professionalism. To continue to meet the agency’s high standards, the new staff will received specialized training in film production practices.

“Our auditors will talk the industry language, visit the sets and understand the complexity of the film and digital media business,” said Rick Homans, Secretary of the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department. “The goal is to be open and friendly to the film industry and, at the same time, maintain accountability and a clear set of rules and expectations.”

New Mexico’s success with its film incentives has received national acclaim and attention-now 42 other states offer some form of film incentives, many of which are at higher rates than New Mexico.

“The competition is growing, but New Mexico is still at the top of the list when productions look for locations,” added Eric Witt. “The fact is, we have one of the most trusted and respected film programs in the world. And most other states can’t compete with our talented crew base, world-class facilities, and spectacular, diverse locations.”

Important - About the Upcoming Tax and Revenue Sessions and the NM Film Industry

Over the last day or so, some of you may have heard alarm bells ringing about legislative items that require your immediate support. We'd just like to help clarify that, in fact, all is well and well under control.

While it is true that Lisa Strout, director of the NM State Film Office will be speaking to the NM Tax and Revenue Committee in Cloudcroft next week, that in itself is no cause for alarm. In fact, the Film Office asked to speak to the committee in order to propose legislative items that would strengthen the long-term well-being of the industry in New Mexico. We're not in a defensive posture, and there's no need for a wide-spread action on your part. In fact, such a situation could prove detrimental.

There have been times in the recent past where the might of industry supporters was required, and it has been critical to our success. This is not one of those times.

The New Mexico Film Industry requires the impact and fortitude of its constituents for its continued well-being. However, knowing when to wield your might, and when to relax, is what separates a well oiled and effective constituency from a frenzied mass.

You can be sure you'll be called upon for your support when the time comes.

Best wishes for continued success,

Daniel Taras
Founder
crewnewmexico.com

Record Summer at the Box Office - $4.35Billion

Final domestic tally on the record-setting summer has come in at $4.35 billion, or 5% ahead of 2008 -- thanks in part to this summer containing an additional weekend.

A moderate Labor Day weekend generated a total of $124.7 million, led by the soph sesh of Warner/New Line's "The Final Destination" with $15.3 million. The holiday frame total was less than $1 million ahead of the 2008 Labor Day.

Year-to-date domestic biz remains well above 2008 at $7.4 billion, or 8.1% ahead of the same point last year.

Even without the additional weekend, the 2009 summer would have still set a domestic record since it topped 2007's record on Aug. 30 and then padded that total for eight more days.

The presence of a trio of 3-D pics -- Disney's "Up" and "G-Force" and Fox's "Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs" -- helped put the 2009 summer into the record book as each generated about half their revenues from 3-D venues, which charged premium ticket prices.

And the holiday frame capped a stellar summer for Warners, which edged just past $1 billion for a 23.1% market share with 15 titles. The sixth Harry Potter and "The Hangover" brought in 59% of the studio's summer grosses.

To see the full article in Variety, click here.

Variety Review of Men Who Stare at Goats

Filmed partially in New Mexico, The Men Who Stare at Goats has already hit the screen in limited release. Good, thoughtful review from Variety.

"A serendipitous marriage of talent in which all hearts seem to beat as one, "The Men Who Stare at Goats" takes Jon Ronson's book about "the apparent madness at the heart of U.S. military intelligence" and fashions a superbly written loony-tunes satire, played by a tony cast at the top of its game. Recalling many similar pics, from "Dr. Strangelove" to "Three Kings," and the screwy so-insane-it-could-be-true illogic of "Catch-22," this is upscale liberal movie-making with a populist touch, in Coen brothers style. Enthusiastic welcome at Venice, likely to be echoed at Toronto, should translate into friendly biz Stateside in November."

To read the entire article, click here.

Native American Filmmakers Wanted

The Second Annual Creative Spirit New Mexico program is seeking American Indian applicants, 18 and older, who are passionate about film, to participate in an intensive two-day movie-making workshop in preparation for the production of the short film “Indios Primeros,” written by Roberto A. Jackson, this year’s Creative Spirit short-script contest winner.

The free workshop is limited to 10 participants and takes place 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, and Sunday, Sept. 20, at the VSA North Fourth Art Center, 4904 Fourth St. N.W. in Albuquerque. Participants who successfully complete the workshop will be eligible for paid positions as apprentices or production assistants in the making of “Indios Primeros,” which will take place at Albuquerque area locations Friday-Sunday, Sept. 25-27.

The film will have its world premiere screening Oct. 9 and 10 at the North Fourth Art Center’s Two Worlds program of short films by Native American filmmakers.

Workshop applicants should send a short bio, including tribal affiliation, resume and letter of interest to –

Creative Spirit Film Workshop
c/o Ollie Reed Jr.
VSA North Fourth Art Center
4904 Fourth St. N.W.
Albuquerque, N.M. 87107

OR

via e-mail to oreedjr@gmail.com

For more information, contact Ollie Reed Jr. at the e-mail above or 345-2872 (Ext. 26)

Great New Class at Santa Fe Community College

We at crewnewmexico.com love the Santa Fe Community College Media Arts Department. They're helping create the next generation of talented New Mexico film professionals - and here's their next upcoming class!

FILM 205, CRN 21068, Making a Documentary – Dates: 9/12 – 9/20; Times: Saturday/Sunday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm; 2 credits. Instructor: TBA

Award winning filmmaker Erin Hudson will be teaching what it takes to make a documentary film. Two intensive weekends in September. Learn about building a project, shooting and distributing a documentary film! Hands-on training in HDV equipment!

Space is limited so sign up now!

You must be a registered credit student (not continuing education) at SFCC which can be done with no application fee at www.sfccnm.edu (just follow the new student links). For more information: http://www.sfccnm.edu, e-mail filminfo@sfccnm.edu or call Sandra at 428-1421

"Made in New Mexico" Films to Show at New Mexico State Fair

The 2009 New Mexico State Fair in association with the New Mexico Film Museum will present a free-to-fairgoers, made-in-New Mexico film series during this year’s 17-day run of the fair.

“Filmmaking has been a part of New Mexico’s history for longer than most people know,” said State Fair General Manager Craig Swagerty. “The last six or seven years have seen exponential growth in our state’s film industry, and we thought a great way to celebrate our present success in movie-making would be to revisit a history of filmmaking in New Mexico.”

The inaugural New Mexico State Fair Film Retrospective will feature 33 films filmed in the state over the past 100 years. There will be no charge for the films, which are scheduled for three showings per day, 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., during the 17-day fair which runs September 11-27, 2009. All films will be shown in the 300-seat auditorium in the African American Performing Arts Center.

“The State Fair offers the perfect audience for a film series dedicated to New Mexico films,” said Film Museum Director Sharon Maloof. “These are films that many New Mexicans have probably never seen and maybe did not know they were filmed in our state.” Among films scheduled for the made-in-New Mexico retrospective are “Salt of the Earth,” “Red Dawn,” “The Man Who Fell to Earth,” “Young Guns,” “Silverado,” “City Slickers,” “The Milagro Beanfield War,” “Independence Day,” “3:10 to Yuma” and “No Country for Old Men.” Sponsors for the film program, in addition to the State Fair and the Film Museum, are the Carlsbad Caverns Guadalupe Mountain Association; the Albuquerque Film Office; and IATSE Local 480, Film and Television Technicians of New Mexico. Programming for the series is through courtesy of Julesworks Releasing.

Visit www.nmfilmmuseum.org or www.exponm.com for the film schedule.

Interview with Jane Blume of Desert Sky Communications

Jane has been a publicist in New Mexico for 20 years, and knows how to navigate the local media, and how to help clients get their message out to their targeted industry.

Q: Tell us a little bit about Desert Sky Communications.

A: Desert Sky Communications is New Mexico Business Weekly's #12-ranked PR firm for this state. We provide a broad range of services to help our clients gain visibility and recognition for the great work that they do, and "get the right messages to the right audiences."

Q: There are a lot of new businesses opening in New Mexico hoping to capitalize on the film industry. What would be your advice to them as they enter the NM business world?

A: Understand your company's uniqueness -- what makes you different/uniquely qualified to do what you do? Become as visible as possible to your target audience and do a lot of networking (that's how business is done here). Don't perform services that you are not qualified to undertake - unless you disclose your lack of qualifications and agree to perform these services for a heavily discounted rate or free of charge. Under-promise and over-deliver.

Q: What services, then, could you provide to a production?

A: Media relations: news releases; feature story and interview ideas for the print and broadcast media; news conferences; crisis communications.

Q: How about film-supporting businesses or other New Mexico small businesses?

A: Media relations, including news releases, feature story and interview ideas for the print and broadcast media, news conferences and crisis communications. We also provide writing and editing services including news releases, brochures, company fact sheets, and websites. We assist with corporate identity (graphic design for logos, brochures, print ads, etc.), as well as broadcast and print advertising, customer surveys, photographic services, website maintenance and design and special events.

Q: You're extremely active in your community. What inspires you to be so involved?

A: I have always enjoyed giving back - I hope it will help make the community I'm living in a better place. There's a practical reason, as well: high visibility helps distinguish me and my company from the competition.

Q: You're also a past president of New Mexico Chapter of The Association for Women in Communications (AWC). Tell us a little about that group, and if you think there is crossover interest for film and media professionals.

A: AWC is a 100-year-old national professional association that supports the advancement of women in all communications fields; therefore, there is definitely a crossover interest for film and media professionals (and we welcome male members)! I have been president of AWC/NM twice: in 2007-08 and 1992-93. Our NM Chapter was probably the first professional group in the Albuquerque metro area (if not the state) to recognize the potential importance of the film industry here: we organized our first program on the subject in our 2002-03 program year.

Q: How has the character or business climate of Albuquerque changed as a result of the film industry?

A: The business community is becoming more diverse. This is important, because government has traditonally been the biggest employer.

Q: You’re also very generous! You’ve made quite a nice gesture to the members of crewnewmexico.com.

A: Absolutely. I am happy to provide a free consultation (of up to one hour) to any member of crewnewmexico.com before November 15, 2009. Email jblume@desertskycommuncations.com or call (505) 294-1976.

Check it Out! New Studio in Albuquerque - Elixir Studios

It's our pleasure to introduce you to a brand new, state-of-the art, 3,000 square foot production space in Albuquerque - Elixir Studios.

The product of renowned photographer Robert Reck, Elixir offers two bays with unobstructed shooting space, 14' ceilings, and a two-wall cyclorama. They have a separate daylight studio, hair and makeup stations, equipment rentals, wardrobe area replete with racks, steamer, mirrors, and stereo system and kitchenette.

They're conveniently located near prop houses and support services, provide ample free parking, and can assist you with catering and other production needs.

For photo, video, and fashion shoots, as well as casting calls and event space rentals, the Elixir staff is dedicated to providing you with New Mexico's most professional and savvy production environment.

Call to set up a viewing at (505) 243-5907, or visit elixirstudiosabq.com.