(The Center Square) – Illinois’ television and film industry came to a halt during a production strike in 2023, but it appears to be on the rebound.
Film production expenditures were over $650 million last year, the second-highest total in state history. Over 18,000 people were hired during that time, excluding extras.
During a House Museum, Arts, Culture and Entertainment Committee hearing, Christine Dudley, executive director of the Illinois Production Alliance, said the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit is paying dividends.
“For every one dollar issued in credits, the return on investment to the state is $6.81,” said Dudley. “It really is one of the most successful programs that the state has offered and the return on investment is unequaled.”
The Illinois Film Production Tax Credit provides a 30% tax credit on qualified expenditures, including production spending, salaries and an additional 15% on salaries for people who live in economically disadvantaged areas.
In 2022, the state launched the Film and TV Workforce Training Program, which is designed to increase diversity in Illinois’ film industry.
Dudley said the Land of Lincoln has a rich history of TV and film production.
“From the days of silent movies at Essanay Studios, to the explosion of TV advertising in the 50s with Tony the Tiger and the Jolly Green Giant, to the era of John Hughes, the Blues Brothers, The Fugitive, Barbershop and Batman,” said Dudley.
Essanay is probably best known today for its series of Charlie Chaplin comedies produced in 1915-1916.
Independent films made in Illinois are getting noticed. “Ghostlight” premiered on opening night of the Sundance Film Festival in 2024.
“It’s really hard to find financing for movies in the current environment,” said Eddie Linker, producer of the film. “The ability to use the Illinois Tax Credit at almost any budget level is often the difference between making a movie or hoping to make a movie.”
