Copyright Baton Rouge Advocate
Louisiana has long been a storyteller’s dream. From our historic architecture and moss-draped oak trees to the warmth of our people, this state offers something unique to every lens that captures it. For decades, the film and television industry has been an important part of that story, creating jobs, supporting small businesses and sharing Louisiana’s culture with the world. In recent years, as production has become increasingly competitive across the nation and world, we’ve had to remind decision makers why Louisiana remains such a strong partner for film. Earlier this month, our organization, Film Louisiana, joined state and local leaders in Los Angeles to do just that. The event we hosted — Crawfish Étouffée and Cocktails — was more about connection than just celebration. It was about strengthening relationships, sharing updates on our strengthened film incentive program and reaffirming that Louisiana continues to be a reliable, creative home for production. Louisiana’s film industry is grounded in legislation that makes long-term planning possible. The modernization of our Motion Picture Production Tax Credit, known as Act 44, ensures stability through 2031 and offers competitive credits that help productions stretch their budgets while keeping spending local. That predictability is key. In a business that operates project to project, knowing a program is consistent helps producers and studios commit to coming here again and again. When we talk to studios, one of the biggest surprises is how versatile Louisiana truly is. Our state can stand in for nearly any location a script calls for — from urban to rural, historic to futuristic. To make that easier for producers to visualize, Film Louisiana recently released a new Locations Lookbook, highlighting real Louisiana places that have doubled for settings around the world. It’s a simple but powerful reminder that creativity and resourcefulness are part of who we are. Each production filmed here brings far more than cameras. It brings contracts for caterers, jobs for local crews, carpenters, electricians, costume designers and hotel staff. It helps young people see that creative careers can thrive right here at home. And it reminds those of us who live here how much our state has to offer beyond what’s already visible on screen. Advocating for Louisiana’s film industry isn’t about chasing fame. It is about sustaining opportunity. When we invest in creative industries, we invest in local talent, entrepreneurship and a more diversified economy that benefits everyone. The trip to Los Angeles was one step in a much larger effort to keep Louisiana competitive and connected. We know this work takes collaboration among state agencies, local communities and industry professionals. We also know that the same creativity that drives filmmaking drives progress in our state. Louisiana has weathered many ups and downs in this industry, but what continues to set us apart is resilience. The stories we tell — on screen and off — come from that same place of strength. At its core, Film Louisiana’s mission is more about than economics; it’s about voice. We want to give Louisiana a platform to tell its own stories — stories shaped by our culture, our people and our creative spirit. By keeping productions here, we ensure those stories are told with authenticity and pride, by Louisiana talent with Louisiana heart. And as we continue to share that message across the country, our goal is clear: To remind the world that Louisiana isn’t just a great place to film — it’s the best place to film, period.
