South Carolina film makers hoping to expand industry in the Lowcountry
In the Lowcountry, the Beaufort Film Society is doing its part to bring more money and eyes to the industry and to the city.
Beaufort’s film festival has been a local staple. But compared to the state of Georgia, South Carolina is far behind.
“Compare our $15 million which is tax rebate money to Georgia’s 700 million credit. There’s quite a difference. It’s not competitive,” said Ron Tucker with the Beaufort Film Society.
Fifteen million may seem like plenty. But not when you divide it between two projects. So even if South Carolina wanted to take advantage of Georgia losing films, they wouldn’t have enough.
“Anybody else that wants to come, there’s no room. There’s no money,” Tucker said.
So, what’s the answer? One film producer says it’s time to get the state involved.
“At the state level, they really need to rethink film. There has to be considerable effort put into that if we’re really going to move the needle,” producer Landon Thorne said.