California Film Commission

Film California First Program to be Featured at Showbiz Expo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
05/01/2001

Contact: Karen Constine
Contact Phone: 323.860.2960

California Film Commission Promotes $45 Million Incentive Program

HOLLYWOOD -- The California Film Commission (CFC) today announced it will promote its three-year, $45 million incentive program, Film California First (FCF) at the 2001 ShowBiz Expo to be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, May 31-June 2. The only incentive program of its kind, the FCF Program greatly reduces costs incurred by filmmakers and production companies when filming in California.

"Since the program's launch in January, many production companies have received Film California First reimbursement checks," stated Karen Constine, Director of the California Film Commission. "The ShowBiz Expo will provide another opportunity to spread the word about the Program and the benefits of filming in California to an even larger group of producers, directors and crew members who will be at this year's show."

To extend awareness of the FCF Program and promote California's unmatched geography, climate, talent, resources and support, the CFC will partner with in-state film commissions or FLICS (Film Liaisons in California Statewide) from all over the State at the ShowBiz Expo.

Filming in the Golden State has never been so rewarding, according to the CFC. The FCF Program reimburses up to $300,000 per production to qualified production companies for costs including:

  • State employee costs, including California Highway Patrol, State Park Rangers, University of California and California State University.
  • Federal employee costs.
  • Federal, State, University of California and California State University film permits and public property use fees.
  • Local public property use fees.
  • Local public entity costs for fire and non-police public safety.
  • Public equipment mandated and owned by a public agency.

"We have developed an interactive Web site for the application process in addition to a 'Documents by Fax' system in order to make information on the Program easily available," added Constine. Information and an interactive form is available online at www.filmcafirst.com or to receive Program information via fax machine dial 323/860-2970.

Since its inception in 1984, the CFC has worked to enhance California's position as the premiere location for all motion picture and television production. A one-stop shop for filmmakers, the CFC permits for state-owned property and also provides production and troubleshooting assistance within California.