Stunning natural resources, architectural gems, diverse rural and urban locales and one of the most diverse workforces in the country are some of the reasons filmmakers are coming to Michigan.

But there is also a compelling practical consideration.

Michigan has one of the most aggressive film incentives in the country. It’s the main reason nearly $350 million has been spent in the state since the incentive was enacted two years ago.

Filmmakers may receive a tax refund equal to 40 percent of qualified film or digital media pre-production, production and post-production costs incurred in Michigan.  And, filmmakers could receive an additional 2 percent refund if costs are in designated core communities.

Since 2008, filming expenditures in Michigan has increased nearly 80 percent, from $125 million in 2008 to $223.6 last year. The film tax incentive has helped to create more than 8,000 jobs. And, with more filmmakers coming to the state, investment into the film industry is increasing, most notably with the building of studios and growing number of support services.

Like any fledgling and successful industry, the Michigan film business is in the early stages of laying the foundation for a thriving economy. And, southeastern Michigan is leading the way.

At a critical economic time in our state’s history, the film industry is proving to be one of the many ways Michigan is diversifying its economy, and transforming where we live, work and play.

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Made in Michigan (Feature films shot at U-M)

2010: Jinn

2009: MOOZ-lum, Trust, Naked Angel, Trivial Pursuits

2008: The Myth of the American Sleepover

For filming guidelines, please visit http://www.vpcomm.umich.edu/film/guidelines.html

Contact

University of Michigan Film Office

http://www.vpcomm.umich.edu/film/

Lee Doyle, Director

Phone: 734.763.5800

Email: leedoyle@umich.edu

Ann Arbor Area Film office

http://filmoffice.visitannarbor.org/