Hollywood receives major tax breaks in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, alongside Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik, announced an allocation of $36.7 million in state tax credits to support 17 new theatrical, television, and film production projects across the state.

Awarded under the Motion Picture Tax Credit Program, this round of funding aims to bolster Ohio’s appeal as a production hub. The projects, comprising 14 feature films, a television mini-series, a television series, and a Broadway production, are projected to generate approximately 500 new jobs, $122 million in eligible production expenditures, and $150 million in total production expenses.

“Ohio is an ideal location for entertainment production; we offer big city backdrops, small town appeal, and everything in between,” stated Governor DeWine. “We’re happy to welcome these productions – and the economic impact they’ll bring – to Ohio.”

However, while DeWine touts the economic benefits, the question remains: should these substantial tax breaks favor Hollywood productions over fostering local talent and smaller-scale Ohioan projects? The state’s burgeoning film industry has already received significant recognition, with Cincinnati emerging as a potential new host for the Sundance Film Festival after its contract with Park City, Utah, concludes.

“Both Cincinnati and Ohio pride ourselves on being a world-class destination where movies are made and celebrated,” said DeWine upon Sundance’s announcement. “And whatever the entertainment is—creative, cultural, or sports—Cincinnati is known for being a city that knows how to do big things. We love to roll out the red carpet and will do the same for a festival as iconic as Sundance.”

Since its inception in 2009, the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit Program has backed 138 projects, marking its first Broadway support this year. The program provides a 30 percent refundable tax credit on production cast and crew wages and other in-state expenditures for eligible productions.

“From the stage to the studio to Main Street, you never know where you’ll find the next great production underway in Ohio. It’s what makes us the Heart of Creativity!” said Lydia Mihalik. “The recipients of these motion picture tax credits will support local economies, bringing jobs to the state and showcasing Ohio’s great communities.”

This year’s funded projects span a wide range, including:

• Broadway/Theatrical Productions: “Tina, The Tina Turner Musical” in Springfield/Northeast Ohio ($454,785.90)
• TV Series: “AEW 2024-2025 Productions” in Cleveland ($1,275,000); “Columbus Quartet” (Mini-series) in Central Ohio ($3,369,019.80)
• Feature Films: “Breaking Up with Mom and Dad” in Cincinnati ($6,117,813); “Epiphany” in Cincinnati ($10,749,914.70); “Syndicate” in Cleveland ($4,683,066.38); among others.

While these projects promise economic influx and job creation, it is essential to consider whether the substantial tax incentives provided to high-profile Hollywood productions are the best investment of Ohio’s resources. Could these funds better serve local productions and stimulate homegrown creative industries, ensuring long-term growth and cultural development within the state?

For more details on the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit Program, visit development.ohio.gov/film.