$44 Billion? Florida & Georgia Film Industry Production, Comparatively.

Chart-topping year for the film and television industry as productions spent $4.4 billion in Georgia during fiscal year 2022 – a new industry record. Wow, that's a lot of cash! But what about the Sunshine State? Florida may be known for its beautiful beaches and alligator-filled swamps, but it also has the potential to become a major player in the film and television industry.

You see, Florida has a diverse landscape that makes it a prime location for all kinds of productions. Whether you need a bustling city or a sleepy beach town like New Smyrna Beach, Florida's got it all. Plus, with world-renowned theme parks and natural wonders like the Everglades, there's no shortage of breathtaking scenery to capture on film.

But it's not just about the scenery. Florida is also home to some of the best media education programs in the country. Universities like the University of Miami and Full Sail University offer top-notch film and media programs that produce some of the most talented crew members in the industry. And let's not forget about the talented actors and actresses who call Florida home, like John Travolata, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Eva Mendes.

With all of these resources, it's no wonder that the film and television industry in Florida is poised for growth. But in order to truly take off, we need more federal, state, and municipal tax incentives for productions to come and film here. Right now, Georgia is leading the way with its generous tax incentives, which is why so many crew members for Georgia productions are traveling from Florida. But we think it's time for Florida to step up and offer similar incentives to attract more productions.

Not only would this bring more jobs and revenue to the state, but it would also showcase all that Florida has to offer to the rest of the world. From the beautiful beaches of the Gulf Coast to the vibrant art scene in Miami, there's so much to see and experience in the Sunshine State. And with the right tax incentives, we could bring even more productions to our beautiful state and cement our place in the film and television industry.

So, let's work together to make Florida the next big thing in the film and television industry. With our diverse landscape, talented crew members, and top-notch media education programs, there's no limit to what we can achieve.

Lights, Camera, Action! The Reel Deal Film Festival, 2023 & the Charismatic New Smyrna Beach

Introduction

For film enthusiasts, attending film festivals is an exciting opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of filmmaking, discover new films, and network with like-minded professionals. In this guide, we will take you through the best film festivals to attend in 2023, and introduce you to the picturesque and charming city of New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

Cannes Film Festival

The Cannes Film Festival is a world-renowned event that takes place annually in Cannes, France. It's a highly-prestigious festival that has been running since 1946 and attracts the world's biggest names in the film industry. However, if you are looking for a festival closer to home, we recommend exploring the film industry in the State of Florida.

Florida's Film Industry

Florida is a state with a thriving film industry, and it's no surprise why. The state boasts warm weather year-round, diverse landscapes, and a range of stunning locations. With celebrities such as John Travolta making Florida their home and bringing productions to the state, the industry has been booming. Clearwater, for example, is home to the Church of Scientology's production studio, while Universal Studios Florida in Orlando is one of the largest film production complexes in the country.

New Smyrna Beach, FL

Located on the east coast of Florida, New Smyrna Beach is a picturesque and tranquil seaside town. The city's unique blend of white sandy beaches, charming art galleries, and delectable cuisine has made it a popular destination for filmmakers looking for a captivating backdrop for their productions. The city has played host to a variety of films, including "Jaws 2" and "The Waterboy." New Smyrna Beach's film industry is thriving, and it's no surprise that the Reel Deal Film Festival is held in the city each year.

Reel Deal Film Festival

The Reel Deal Film Festival is an annual event held in New Smyrna Beach, FL. The festival aims to showcase the best in independent films and provide a platform for emerging talent in the film industry. The festival features a variety of films, workshops, and networking events, giving filmmakers and film enthusiasts the opportunity to connect and exchange ideas. With stunning scenery and a vibrant arts community, the Reel Deal Film Festival is a must-attend event for any film enthusiast.

Sundance Film Festival

The Sundance Film Festival is one of the most well-known and prestigious film festivals in the world. It's held annually in Park City, Utah, and showcases a range of independent films. While it may not be in Florida, the festival is still worth mentioning due to its historical significance and the plethora of talent it attracts.

Support Local Filmmakers

Attending film festivals is a unique and immersive way to experience the world of filmmaking, discover new films, and network with like-minded professionals. And what better place to experience the magic of the film industry than in New Smyrna Beach, Florida? The city's natural beauty, vibrant arts community, and thriving film industry make it a must-visit destination for any film enthusiast. We recommend exploring the Reel Deal Film Festival and discovering the wealth of talent and creativity that the state of Florida has to offer. Who knows, you may even get the chance to meet John Travolta, who knows New Smyrna Beach all too well.