The small town of Thomasville, Georgia, has become a hotspot for Hollywood productions, attracting major stars and boosting the local economy. With its picturesque cobblestone streets and mom-and-pop stores, Thomasville has served as the backdrop for several films, including “The Tiger Rising” starring Dennis Quaid and Queen Latifah.
While the influx of film productions has brought in millions of dollars to the city, some Georgia lawmakers are questioning the cost of the state’s generous filming incentives. The tax incentive program, which allows studios to recoup up to 30 percent of their production costs, has cost the state billions of dollars.
Despite the economic benefits for local businesses, critics argue that the state is paying too high a price for the glamour of Hollywood. Economists warn that the tax credits could be draining state coffers and benefiting the wealthy at the expense of small business owners like Heather Abbott, who has experienced disruptions and losses due to filming in the area.
However, supporters of the film tax incentives point to the positive impact on the state economy, with reports showing that every dollar spent on film tax incentives generates over $6 in value to the state. The Georgia Screen Entertainment Coalition found that the tax credit supported over 59,000 jobs in 2022.
As lawmakers debate the future of the tax incentive program, the town of Thomasville remains divided on the issue. While some business owners welcome the economic boost from film productions, others like Heather Abbott are questioning the true cost of hosting Hollywood in their small town.
Despite the controversy, Thomasville Pictures, the studio behind the city’s film boom, remains committed to making movies in the area. With $6 million in state tax credits already received, the studio plans to continue producing films in Thomasville, with hopes of expanding their presence in the region.
As the debate continues, the Georgia Regional Film and Entertainment Alliance has proposed an additional 10 percent tax credit for productions filmed outside of metro Atlanta, aiming to support smaller cities like Thomasville in their efforts to attract Hollywood productions.
