Oscars Gala Raises Funds for Cine, Highlights Impact of Film Tax Credits
Georgia’s film industry has grown dramatically in recent years, thanks to the generous tax incentives enacted in 2008. In the fiscal year 2022, Georgia’s 20–30% film tax credit has generated $8.5 billion in economic impact and created nearly 60,000 jobs in the state, according to studies.
A new bill, however, could throw a wrench into this system. Last week, a Georgia House of Representatives Ways and Means subcommittee unanimously approved House Bill 1180, introducing new criteria that production companies must meet in order to qualify for the most lucrative tax credit. The bill would also place a $900 million cap on transferable tax credits and require companies to spend a minimum of $500,000 to apply for tax incentives. The original proposition was a threshold of $1 million, though it was revised to consider smaller film productions.
“We have become seen as second only to Hollywood, in terms of film production in the U.S.,” says David Sutherland, a professor at UGA’s Terry College of Business. “A lot of lawmakers got worried that [tax credits] pose a risk to state finance. It makes it harder to cut general income taxes across the board.”
While the bill would not go into effect until 2026 upon passing, it has caused concern for filmmakers and production companies across Georgia. A petition has been circulating since HB 1180 moved forward calling for amendment. The petition argues that this unanticipated change will negatively impact productions, forcing them to seek film opportunities elsewhere. It also proposes that the state offer an additional 10% tax incentive to productions filming in rural areas to support smaller communities.
Athens itself is no stranger to film production, having made appearances in movies such as The Exorcist: Believer (2023), Ragged Heart (2022) and Athens native Jamie Ponsoldt’s The Spectacular Now (2012), among many others. The city offers urban and rural settings, classroom space from UGA and historic buildings, as well as a streamlined permitting process. With the addition of Athena Studios, officially launched in 2023, filmmakers can access 200,000 square feet of space purposely built for production. Efforts have also been made to train college students and youth for the film industry through programs like the Georgia Film Academy.
A big contributor to the Athens film community is Ciné, an independent arthouse cinema on Hancock Avenue. Ciné operates as a nonprofit under the stewardship of the Athens Film Arts Institute. Not only does the organization showcase local and student-made films, but it also hosts live performances, poetry readings and art exhibitions. Having been in operation for 17 years now, Ciné has become a cultural landmark of downtown Athens. Executive Director Pamela Kohn describes the cinema as a mindful provider of diverse, artistic and educational programming.
“I think film has been intrinsic to the long history of Athens… It’s a very creative community, and the medium of film has definitely been positive,” Kohn says.
Ciné is committed to educational outreach as well. Partnering with UGA’s Willson Center for Arts and Humanities, Kohn says Ciné has brought together visiting artists and professors from all over the world. As a part of its outreach program, the cinema regularly hosts documentary screenings and panel discussions for public schools in the Athens area.
To highlight recent legislative action and to fundraise for its 3.0 campaign, Ciné will be presenting an Oscars-style gala on Mar. 9 from 6–10 p.m. at 1055 Barber St. The 3.0 campaign consists of facility upgrades, including a third screen in Ciné’s meeting space and music venue known as “The Lab,” a digital projector and new sound systems. For this event, Ciné has invited speakers including state Rep. Spencer Frye (D-Athens), Athena Studios founder Joel Harbor, and composer and producer Elvin Ross to discuss the film tax incentives and the future of filmmaking in Athens.
With Epting Events as its presenting sponsor, the gala will feature live music, silent auctions, gift bags from local businesses, an Oscars predictions competition and awards for various costume categories. Ciné board director and owner of Agora Vintage Airee Edwards emphasized raising awareness of the cinema as it connects all kinds of local talent. Edwards said the event is a collaboration of film, music, fashion and art, welcoming to all creatives. Moreover, youth who are interested in the film industry are encouraged to attend for networking opportunities.
Tickets are $150 for individuals and $2,000 for VIP tables of 10, partially tax deductible, and include a “fancy Southern” buffet and drink tickets. They are available at athenscine.com/gala. This gala is Ciné’s largest fundraiser to date, and staff members and supporters hope to continue the tradition in the years to come.
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