Introduction
Georgia’s film industry has seen significant growth in recent years, thanks to generous tax incentives and a diverse range of filming locations. The state has attracted major Hollywood production studios, such as Lionsgate, NBCUniversal, and AMC, bolstering its reputation as a prominent hub for film and television production. This article delves into the impact of Georgia’s thriving film industry and the various studios and projects that have found a home in the Peach State.
Lionsgate Leads the Way
Major Hollywood production studio Lionsgate has been confirmed as the lead tenant for a new film and television complex in Douglas County. The company has a strong history of working on projects in the Atlanta area, including supporting all of Tyler Perry’s theatrically released “Madea” films and shooting three of the four “Hunger Games” movies in metro Atlanta. Other Atlanta-based productions from the studio include 2012’s “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” 2017’s “All Eyez On Me,” and 2018’s “Uncle Drew.”
The Lionsgate-Great Point Studios Collaboration
Lionsgate will lease space in collaboration with Great Point Studios, a media-focused investment fund specializing in film and television infrastructure. The two companies have previously partnered on studio spaces in New York and New Jersey. Great Point Studios, a project by Holder Properties, will be a $160 million, 40-acre film and television production facility with the first stages scheduled to open in late 2023. The facility will feature 11 sound stages and a 480,000-square-foot capacity.
An Influx of Studios in Georgia
Generous tax credits have attracted numerous Hollywood production companies to Georgia, resulting in a significant growth in studios. Athena Studios recently opened in Athens, while Electric Owl Studios near the Indian Creek MARTA station and Gray Television’s Assembly Studios in Doraville are set to open later this year. Additionally, Trilith Studio in Fayetteville and Cinelease’s Three Ring Studios in Covington are expanding their facilities.
NBCUniversal’s Long-Term Agreement
NBCUniversal, the owner of NBC, Bravo, USA Network, and the Peacock streaming service, has also signed a long-term agreement with a locally-owned studio operator, Gray’s Assembly Studios. The media giant will oversee the facility once it opens in June, producing its own films and TV shows while leasing the remaining space to other companies.
Short-Term Deals and Studio Purchases
Companies like Netflix and Apple TV+ have previously signed shorter-term deals with local studios. AMC is the only Hollywood company to have purchased studio space outright in metro Atlanta, acquiring Riverwood Studios in Senoia in 2017.
The Trails: A Mixed-Use Development in Douglas County
Great Points Studio will be a part of The Trails, a $350 million mixed-use development in Douglas County. The project will feature housing, a hotel, and retail spaces, further contributing to the local economy.
Conclusion
Georgia’s film industry continues to flourish, attracting major Hollywood production studios and boosting the local economy. The state’s generous tax incentives, diverse filming locations, and growing infrastructure have solidified its status as a leading destination for film and television production.
