New Orleans movie industry
Since the movie industry began in America over 100 years ago, producers have filmed a large number of movies in Hollywood, CA. Since then, producers have looked to expand their product to new locations as the movie industry has continued to grow. In the 21st century, more and more producers have looked to film an ever-increasing number of movies in New Orleans. Tax incentives and picturesque locations have made New Orleans home to a number of recent big budget movies.
Tax incentives
For most of its history, New Orleans and Louisiana in general were home to some of the most corrupt politicians in the nation. This made doing business in the state a difficult task for honest and/or cash-strapped businesses. But in 2002, Louisiana passed the "Motion Picture Investor Tax Credit." This bill gives movie companies a 30% tax credit on all production work over $300,000. In addition, producers get an extra 5% credit on labor hired in New Orleans. To enhance big budget movies to film in New Orleans, there is no cap on the tax credit.
Architecture
Regardless of the tax credits, movie producers would not film in New Orleans if the scenery did not meet their needs. Fortunately, New Orleans features some of the oldest, most beautiful architecture in America. With Spanish and French influences seen throughout the city and gorgeous old south plantations just a few miles to the south, producers can film a variety of different movies in the city. Of course, the nightlife is attractive to the cast and crew as well.
Famous movies filmed in New Orleans
I know at least three people who have had the opportunity to appear in movies filmed in New Orleans. A friend of mine was cast in a restaurant scene in "J.F.K." And a student at my high school got a small role in "Stay Alive." Also, a teacher at my school was in a crowd scene in "Deja Vu."
As a big sports fan, I occasionally go to New Orleans Hornets basketball games. At some point, it became cool for actors to be seen courtside at NBA games. So I saw John Cusack and Dustin Hoffman many times while "Runaway Jury" was being filmed. More importantly, I saw Jessica Simpson, star of "The Dukes of Hazzard." Even John Travolta showed up at my school while a scene from the movie "Primary Colors" was being filmed nearby.
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