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Written by: E. George
Published July 12, 2024 @ 2:15 PM ET
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. – Georgia has been the filming and production site for hundreds of movies and television shows over the past few decades. Based on representation at the 2024 Cannes and Sundance Film Festivals, it appears that filmmakers will continue to choose The Peach State for their ongoing and upcoming projects.
Cannes began in 1946, and Sundance started in 1985. The events are regarded as two of the world’s most important and prestigious film festivals.
Randy Davidson, founder and CEO of Georgia Entertainment, stated, “Each festival has its own unique characteristics. Cannes was definitely more international, focusing more on feature films and theatrical releases, whereas Sundance was more catered to the independent filmmakers, the smaller filmmakers.
In both cases, it was important to go along with our partners, like the Savannah Regional Film Commission, Crafty Apes, and other vendors that supply the film industry.” He explained that Georgia became popular for its abundant film tax credits, but many did not know about its other resources and potential.
Davidson said, “They don’t know that we have great people already here, excellent infrastructure and locations, and professional resources, like lawyers and accountants, that productions don’t have to bring in from elsewhere.”
Georgia Entertainment launched expansive workshop experiences to educate attendees at the Cannes and Sundance festivals. Workshop partners included Film Savannah, RiseImpact, Tyler Perry Studios, South Georgia Studios, Crafty Apes, Fangoria, Fulton Films, Bowen Schmidt Entertainment Attorneys, Film Columbus GA, Meptik, and RDH Partners.
Davidson stated, “Going outside of Georgia to attend two of the big five festivals like Cannes and Sundance is very important for filmmakers, film commissioners, and others with a vested interest in filmmaking. These festivals represent a qualified audience – people who have paid a lot of money to travel there and are serious about the industry.”
He said, “The heart, passion, Southern hospitality, and cultural history we have are very attractive on a worldwide scale. That’s what sets us apart and makes Georgia such a compelling destination for the film industry.”
Georgia gained recognition as a key player in the film industry, increasing its production spending by over 17 percent every year from 2001 to 2023, according to the Economic Impact Study of Georgia’s Entertainment Industry Tax Credit. This growing trend impacted the state’s economy by approximately $29.6 billion and fueled $12.2 billion in residents’ wages over just the past five years.
Three Georgia cities (Athens, Atlanta, and Savannah) are currently vying to host a future Sundance Festival. Board members will likely decide on the 2027 festival’s location sometime between late 2024 and early 2025.