Michigan's Film Underwriting Initiative Produces Mixed Results

Michigan is one of 36 states, including Louisiana, New York, California, and New Mexico that are now offering film subsidies to encourage filmmakers to shoot their movies and television shows in the state. Because having a big-name movie shooting in your state can be very good for the local economy, an increasing number of states are offering bonuses, such as tax incentives, to attract filmmakers to the state. But are the states getting big name productions?

The New York Times profiled filmmaker Andrew van den Houten, a producer and director who has taken advantage of the huge subsidy offered in Michigan. To date, he has produced five films in the state, though none of them have made it to wide release.

Michigan has one of the most aggressive subsidy programs, often subsidizing up to 42% of the film's cost. van den Housen's latest film, "Offspring," cost about $1 million, and the state paid approximately $350,000 towards the film. Last year alone, over 20 films, in addition to short films, documentaries, and television shows were filmed in Michigan.

In Michigan, select few subsidized films have secured the major distribution that every filmmaker hopes for. Of note, Clint Eastwood's critically-acclaimed "Gran Torino" was produced under the state incentives program, as well as a new Michael Cera film, "Youth in Revolt," due in the fall.

Nonetheless, filmmakers who produced their films in Michigan are optimistic about their prospects and are hoping to secure deals for wide releases of their movies. In the meantime, Michigan plans to continue their subsidy program, noting that any production, large or small, helps the local economy by providing jobs for residents of the state.

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