Search for “film”

Options:   relevant   newest     10 50     expanded condensed

Results 101 to 200 of 355

Commentary: Republican Legislators Try to Resurrect Film Subsidies

The state’s film incentive, along with most of the state’s selective … introduce legislation to allow for film credit zones, which would enable municipalities to offer the film credits that were eliminated … expenditure is happening. Michigan’s film subsidy program was enacted … 2008 and offers refundable film tax credits worth as much as … more

Mitch Albom's 'Single-Industry' Blunder

There's much more to Michigan's economy than autos

… columnist Mitch Albom added this final line to a recent column defending $500 million taxpayer dollars that Michigan's state government has distributed to film producers since 2008: “I'll just say what I said when we proposed it as a way out of our single-industry economic doldrums. You hate it? Fine. What's … more

The State Should Dissolve the Michigan Film Office Advisory Council

The Michigan Film Office Advisory Council met last Friday to … to restructure the state’s film incentives and cap the expense … different from the Michigan Film Office itself. The film office administers the state’s … Limiting or eliminating the film incentive is ultimately needed. … more

Film Incentive Drama May Upset Reforms

… program known as the Michigan Film Incentive is scheduled to be … reimburses 42 percent of a film production’s costs and 25 percent … Michigan Legislature created the film subsidy program in 2008. It … “diversify” the state’s economy. Film productions would receive cash … negative economic impact. And the film incentive delivered the PR … more

State 'Super' Sizes Movie with Subsidy

Hollywood getting more corporate welfare from your pockets

The Michigan Film Office announced recently that the producers … Superman-Batman movie would film in Michigan and collect $35 … size and scope of the deal and film left me asking if one of these … $35 million dedicated to this film and others is a colossal waste … annual appropriation for the film program is now $50 million. … more

Red Dawn Reality Check

… Hollywood production companies that film in this state, the U.S. military … free military equipment for filming. It involved filming for the movie Red Dawn that … offer assistance. Strub said filming companies usually import their … installations and ships to film and aren't charged as long … more

Democrat Contradictions: Corporate Tax Breaks Bad, But Incentives for Hollywood Good

Dems criticize MEDC, but want to give more money to millionaire movie moguls

… brother, Bob, founded Miramax Films in 1979 and then sold it to … universally supported the state's film subsidy program and want to … $40 million from the state's film incentive program in 2010 for … Republicans went to eliminate the film subsidy entirely from its fiscal … Democrats proposed maintaining the film budget at $50 million. "Republicans … more

Corporate Welfare for Hollywood Comes First

Michigan's roads can wait

… perpetuate the state’s flop-filled film subsidy program shot through … mistake about it, the state’s film subsidy program is nothing … dollars and there are fewer film jobs in Michigan now than before … well-founded. A bill to continue film subsidies zips through the … Legislature voted to keep the film subsidy program alive, it wouldn’t … more

Schwarzenegger's Son Lands Role in Minor Film; State Cuts $140,000 Check

… Schwarzenegger movie being filmed in Detroit. Except, it’s … reported that the Michigan Film Office awarded the film $140,000 in subsidies. ForTheRecord … sent out Tweets promoting the film, one of which was what appeared … take their money? #Detroit Film incentives have ended in Michigan, … more

Michigan's Solyndra?

… million they borrowed to set up a film studio in Pontiac, essentially … that paid up to 42 percent of film producers’ Michigan expenses. … on scaling back the absurd film subsidies, taxpayers could … stopped picking up 42 percent of film producers’ expenses. In other … colleagues to give more loot to film producers, insinuating that … more

Direct Cash Grants: Anti-Crony Capitalism Policies Fall Short

… development programs that continue to be used. An attempt to eliminate state film incentives only capped the program and made it less generous. These favors to large film companies are an unjustified use of taxpayer money, whether they're $100 … more

Analysis: Michael Moore Appears Ready to Take Film Subsidy for Anti-Subsidy Film

… between $650,000 and $1 million in state film subsidies for producing part of "Capitalism: … Moore might receive state funds for a film that denounced government handouts … "Capitalism" documentary. Because of Michigan Film Office secrecy, it was not known if … Moore's membership on the Michigan Film Office Advisory Council might present … more

Mark Ruffalo Wants Government to Defund the Police — But Fund His Films

'Hulk' star has appeared in many taxpayer subsidized movies

… government, but subsidizing film production is not. Like most … privileged few who also benefit from film subsidies. Specifically, Ruffalo … deal of money appearing in films whose producers were paid millions … taxpayer dollars via state film subsidies. His subsidized movies … should try calling a state film subsidy office for help. more

Do 'Stealthy' Michigan Senators Want to Spend $100 Million on Film Subsidies?

Facebook post insists: Michigan senator 'wishes to keep this process quiet and very stealth!'

… from the “Save the Michigan Film Tax Credit” facebook page. … sweeping overhaul of the Michigan film tax credit program, there appears … million has been authorized for film subsidies, which was appropriated … an unusual “one-time basis only.” Film industry supporters immediately … created called “Save the Michigan Film Tax Credit.” The idea, according … more

Record Profits for Warner Bros. Doesn't Stop State From Giving Company Huge Subsidy

Movie company made $1.2 billion; Michigan taxpayers to give it $35 million

… million to Warner Bros. for the filming of the expected blockbuster … million in Michigan while filming the Superman-Batman movie, according to the Michigan Film Office. "The question of why … Washington, D.C. "I don't think the film tax credits are good policy." … have to pay more. Michigan's film incentive pays up to 35 percent … more

'Batman vs. Superman' Swings Super Subsidy Deals from Multiple States

A challenge to boosters' claim that incentives can plant a sustainable industry

… blogger who posted photos of filming in East Lansing and Detroit. … Batman vs. Superman will be filmed in several states, and at least one of them says the film is eligible for its own film subsidies. In addition to the $35 million the film’s producers have been approved … more

Cost to Replace Lost Jobs with Michigan Film Subsidies: $39.4 Billion

… Agency estimates that Michigan film production tax breaks and subsidies … counted. During that year the film incentives’ net cost to taxpayers … these lost jobs with subsidized film production jobs would have … “direct” jobs generated by film production subsidies would … of which would have gone to film producers. Replacing the approximately … more

Time to Hang(ar) It Up

The Hangar42 film studio scandal in Grand Rapids continues to … credits from the state. Some film incentive supporters may argue … for more transparency in the film subsidy program were signed … cuts, including those for the film industry: “Gov. Rick Snyder's … eliminates the MEGA, brownfield, film and every other state business … more

Attorney General Heeds Requests for Investigation of Embattled Film Studio

… ~~~~~ See also: Sorry — Your Film Office Success Story Was Not … Rewrite E-mails Reveal That Film Office Chief Agrees With Criticisms … Incentives Raise Questions Film Noir Michael Moore and Subsidies: … Love-Hate Story Lawmakers Tackle Film Credit Transparency Michael … Inadvertently Makes Case Against Film Subsidies (Again) Analysis … more

Michigan Senator Calls Notion of 'Stealth' Film Subsidy Effort 'Absurd'

'If you can keep $100 million dollars quiet in this day and age with Gov. Snyder you’d have to be a Harry Houdini.' – Sen. Mike Kowall

A Facebook post by a film industry activist suggested Sen. Mike … $100 million to the state’s film subsidy program and “wishes … the only thing related to the film subsidy program that he’s working … legislation would allow the Michigan Film Office to give filmmakers “up … percent, or 3 percent, of the filming here and either you gave them … more

Movie Made in Israel Gets Michigan Tax Dollars

… company outside the state for a film shot entirely in another country, … problems with the Michigan film incentive program, which awards … company spends in the state. Film subsidy supporters always point … as states provide subsidies, film producers will shop around … from its original posting. The film has no ties to Hollywood and … more

Sun Sets on Another Cop Drama Shot In Detroit; Taxpayers Lose More Money

Neither media hype, nor millions from taxpayers could keep 'Low Winter Sun' from being canceled after one season

… jobs, according to the Michigan Film Office. "Detroit 1-8-7," an ABC police drama, was filmed in Detroit in 2010 and then … taxpayers in Michigan. Like most film projects set in Michigan, "Low … an inherent deficiency in films that get taxpayer subsidies. … on is the subsidizing of the film industry." Michigan taxpayers … more

The 'Pro Big Business' Myth Put to Rest

… the years. The plant is now closed. Film tax breaks and subsidies — of which … it: New York City. Nonetheless, the film, a scathing look at bankers’ greed, … “It’s good,” Mr. Stone said of the film subsidies. “Or like basically the way … up to a $1 million subsidy for his film “Capitalism: A Love Story” which was, … more

Big Hollywood Bailout: Taxpayers Spent Nearly $40 Million To Subsidize Disney's 'Oz'

Michigan citizens helped pay for Disney's record profits

… handing it nearly $40 million in film tax credits. That was the … state of Michigan handed out to film producers. Ironically, the state film subsidy nearly matched the $39.8 … was paid in 2012.  "Oz" was filmed in Pontiac at Michigan Motion … that applied for the Michigan film credit for "Oz" was Emerald … more

Real Steel or Reel Steal? New Film Costs $4.26 Per Michigan Taxpayer

… is one of the many movies filmed in Michigan and supported … tax dollars through the state film incentive program, which unfairly singles out films for special grants from the … taxpayer. The incentive gives the film producers up-to 42 percent … $4.26 per taxpayer. Michigan’s film incentive program is expiring … more

Trim Corporate Welfare to $0

… cultural programs ($7 million). There also is a film office line item worth less than $1 million for administration of the state’s film subsidy program. The program was worth $50 million … other hand, Gov. Snyder has proposed $25 million in film subsidies, a 50 percent cut over last year. He … more

Memo to Reporters: Follow the Money!

On Hollywood subsidies

… families and businesses to the film's producers, which many regard … the producers $7 million to film in the city. Instead, reporter … 2007, according to the Michigan Film Office. After then-Gov. Jennifer … Reasons Government Subsidies For Films Are A Bad Idea Super Subsidies … Giving Company Huge Subsidy Film Incentives: The $50 Million … more

Bad Week for Michigan Corporate Welfare Machine

… pulled on a monumentally hyped film infrastructure deal in Allen … investment to the burgeoning film production community in Michigan, … Greg Main chimed in with, "Our film program is just one component … a damning indictment of the film program released last month … Investigation of Embattled Film Studio Senator Says MEDC Should … more

Fewer People Employed in Michigan Movie Industry Than Before Film Tax Credits Began

… two years since the Michigan film incentive went into effect … Policy Analyst James Hohman. "Film incentive supporters often … legislation was signed creating the film subsidy program, that same … percent more.  "While the film incentive program has succeeded … increase the overall number of film jobs in the state, let alone … more

E-mails Reveal That Film Office Chief Agrees With Criticisms of Embattled Studio Project

… he director of the Michigan Film Office agreed with the Mackinac … Lockwood, director of the state's film office, stated the Hangar42 … who is seeking a 25 percent film credit. Meanwhile, many of … after the e-mail, the Michigan Film Office announced Lockwood's … 2009, agreement signed by the film office and Treasury. These … more

Economic Interference Week

Economic Development Week is no cause for celebration

… state wasted about $450 million on a film incentive program that gave subsidies for film production work done here. The Mackinac … picture jobs in Michigan before the film incentive took effect than after. The Legislature eliminated film subsidies in 2015. The Office of the … more

One Sector Grew Last Decade: Corporate Welfare

Very few jobs to show for special favors, subsidies

… Granholm. One paid up to 42 percent of the expenses incurred in Michigan by film producers. In 2011 the open-ended nature of these film subsidies was ended, replaced with fixed-sum grants ($25 million worth in … more

Contrast Over Right-to-Work, Film Subsidies, Detroit Bailout In 31st District Senate Race

State Sen. Mike Green vs. State Rep. Kevin Daley

… (Rep. Daley) has voted for the film credits about every time." … Green said. "In my opinion, the film credits are a waste. According … be giving a penny toward the film credits. "My opponent also … bailout." Rep. Daley said his film credit votes were primarily … the Detroit bailout. "On the film credits, in most cases, I voted … more

Other States Divulge What Michigan's Corporate Welfare Arm Keeps Secret

… the information released before 2009? And after 2009, why did the Michigan Film Office continue to release the names of the entities it gave money to through the state’s film credit program? State officials have implied that their hands are tied … more

Political Experience Separates Candidates In 98th District House GOP Primary

Gary Glenn vs. Karl Ieuter

… Michigan Economic Development Corp., film subsidies and the state's prevailing … candidates want to eliminate the state film incentive program. "Once again, our … Race Contrast Over Right-to-Work, Film Subsidies, Detroit Bailout In 31st … Could Add Millions To Taxpayer Costs Films Or Potholes? more

Commentary: A Legislative Agenda for 2014

Get back to the 2011 and 2012 reform agenda.

… end Michigan's transition out of it. -- Increase Gov. Rick Snyder's bid to cut $25 million out of wealth redistribution from Michigan taxpayers to film producers by making the total cut $50 million. In other words, zero-out this bizarre form of reverse-Robin Hoodism. -- Replace the extremely costly … more

Gov. Snyder’s Proposed Corporate Income Tax, Including Elimination of MEGA Program and Film Subsidies, Holds Promise for Michigan Economy, Analyst Says

‘Jobs’ programs not only failed, but distracted policymakers from effective tax reform

… announcement that Gov. Rick Snyder’s flat corporate income tax proposal would eliminate Michigan Economic Growth Authority tax credits, including the film subsidy, represents a victory for taxpayers and good government, said Mackinac Center Director of Fiscal Policy Michael LaFaive. “This is a bold move … more

Michigan Capitol Confidential Election 2014 Coverage

… taxpayers, such wind power, film subsidies …” “During my time … Contrast Over Right-to-Work, Film Subsidies, Detroit Bailout … (Rep. Daley) has voted for the film credits about every time." … Green said. "In my opinion, the film credits are a waste. According … be giving a penny toward the film credits.”  "He (Sen. Green) … more

Weak Movie Subsidy Support — Even With 73 Percent of Cost Not Shown

… opposition than support for the film subsidy. The total used by … delay between the time when a film credit is approved and when … state cuts the check to the film company. When conducting the … have access to the Michigan Film Office’s 2010 report, which … money underwrote the cost of films made in Michigan since 2008, … more

Filmmaker Tax Subsidy Also Pays for Out-of-State Spending

… understanding is that the Michigan film tax subsidy offers up to 42 … movie companies spend while filming in this state. But an analyst … Frontier Boys. The movie was filmed in West Michigan and is about … movie company while making the film. It received a $223,341 tax … roughly 42 percent of the film’s total expenses. But Hohman … more

Analysis: Broken Windows on Display in Michigan Senate Finance Committee

… the director of the Michigan Film Office, defended the state's film subsidy program in a Senate … Michigan currently grants film producers a combination of … This is the nation's richest film subsidy program. The "broken … and Jones mentioned that the film industry is generating some … more

Michigan Capitol Confidential Vote History

… plug-in traction battery packs used in electric cars. "Politically Correct Capitalism" - Lawmakers voting on whether to GIVE SUBSIDIES for Michigan film production. "Politically Correct Capitalism" - Lawmakers voting on whether to INCREASE ELECTRIC CAR SUBSIDIES for a subsidiary of a Korean battery … more

HBO Cancels Taxpayer-Supported 'Hung'

Analyst: 'There are no free lunches, even in Hollywood economics'

… three seasons. The show was filmed in Detroit and the surrounding area. The Michigan Film Office estimates the production … $2.7 million back from the film subsidy, comprising about 38 … expenditures. The Michigan Film Office receives the film subsidy money from taxpayers. … more

Education Group Documentary Aims to Show 'Kids Aren't Cars'

… fail students and parents. The film is being produced as a series of short films uploaded on the website. "If … school administrator in the film’s trailer (seen below). The … the EAG and says he made the film in order to show "what’s really … current system. "I hope this film shows the problems, but more … more

Red Dawn Finally Rising In Michigan

Movie remake hits big screen thanks to $16.7 million from Michigan taxpayers

… movie debuts Nov. 21. It was filmed in Michigan in 2009 and the film company received $16.7 million in film credits from Michigan taxpayers. … benefit from the Hollywood film subsidies," said Leon Drolet, … Alliance. "The premise behind film subsidies relies more on science … more

SuperSubsidies

… suggests why she thinks the latest Batman movie was filmed in Detroit, saying the despair and hope of the … story — the Superman-Batman movie was handed a film incentive of $35 million in August by the Michigan Film Office, which is among the most lucrative deals … more

Housing Expenses Among the Perks Michigan Residents Pay for Big Hollywood

… Superman-Batman movie was awarded a film incentive of $35 million in August by the Michigan Film Office for a projected $131 … spokeswoman for the Michigan Film Office, said living expenses … not qualify." The Michigan Film Office lists housing as an … its FAQ for producers. Many films in Michigan have spent millions … more

Michigan Households Paid $9 Each for Batman v. Superman

And that's before buying a ticket

… ForTheRecord says: The Michigan film office granted the production … household has 2.63 people). The film’s production company received … last month, according to the film office. The Michigan Legislature ended the state's film incentive program last year, … $653,000 for six employees at the film office. more

Bills Would Demand More Info From Filmmakers Getting Special Tax Breaks

… reported that the Michigan Film Office said in an e-mail that … for tax documents filed by film companies to be open for public … have done.'" The Michigan Film Office does give estimated tax credits awarded to film companies in an annual report. … specifics of the expenditures by film and production companies that … more

YouTubes Praising Special Tax Breaks for Filmmakers Getting Yanked

… explanation of how the Michigan Film Office's tax credit program for … Grand Rapids, the Michigan Film Office, and a questionable … Huizenga was posted by the Compass Film Academy. Jim Barry, a spokesman … Huizenga still supported the film tax credits but that the program … the main supporters of the film tax credit program that is … more

Senator Says House Is Stalling Reform of Special Tax Perks for Filmmakers

… transparency to the Michigan Film Office are being held up by … reported that the Michigan Film Office said in an e-mail that … to propose bills to make the film tax credits more transparent. … certificates. "Given that the Film Office has consistently cited … provide information regarding film projects, I believe quick action … more

New Transformers Flick Costs Each Michigan Taxpayer $1.36

… offers qualified and approved film productions refundable tax … treasury. According to the Michigan Film Office press release, "Transformers" … receives an incentive, or even the film producer’s fault for taking … legislators that the Michigan Film Incentive should be eliminated. … Confidential Coverage of the Michigan Film Incentive Program State Subsidies … more

Mackinac Center Investigation Leads to Criminal Charge

… into the questionable Michigan film tax credit application Peters filed with the Michigan Film Office. The Mackinac Center … Peters' company, West Michigan Film, purchased a large production … alleged investment. The Michigan Film Office and Michigan Economic … Investigation of Embattled Film Studio Sorry — Your Film Office … more

Crony Capitalism: The Movie

… Michigan taxpayer for agreeing to film Oz in Michigan, while Weinstein … comparable amounts for their films. If state policymakers were … scarcely do better than the film subsidy program. It operates … At its creation, Michigan’s film subsidy program contained all … still live on. The Michigan Film Office disperses the money … more

Michael Moore and Subsidies: A Love-Hate Story

… Inc. taxpayer subsidies for filming in Michigan. Yet the Flint … applied for tax credits for filming part of the movie in Michigan. … July 2008 at the Traverse City Film Festival and questioned the logic of the Michigan Film Incentive program, which reimburses … subsidiary of Viacom, and Overture Films co-financed "Capitalism: A … more

MICHIGAN CAPITOL CONFIDENTIAL

Summer 2013 Edition

… Michigan Medicaid Expansion Not Worth the Cost Films or Potholes? Film Incentives: The $50 Million Sequel Taxpayer Funded Films Flop With Viewers How Taxpayers Are Funding Political … more

Bill Would Require CEOs Get Drug Tested If Company Gets Loans, Grants Or Tax Credits From State

Bipartisan group of representatives would mandate substance abuse testing for 'corporate welfare' recipients

… Alan Mulally and Hollywood Film Producer James Cameron want … which oversees the state’s film subsidies as well as the tax … Hollywood executives who want film tax credits, Rep. McMillin … Michigan currently provides a film subsidy of up to 32 percent … also: Analysis of Michigan Film Subsidies: Two Years, $117m … more

Michigan’s ‘Hollywood Welfare’ Plan: Stylish Stars Trumping Taxpayers

… saving Michigan’s 42 percent film welfare program, then consider … scope out a location for a new film, he was well-recognized, and … covered it. The potential of his film happening in that town was … the short life of Michigan’s film welfare program, though some … only a 40 percent payback to films shot there. Would those people … more

Gov. Granholm in 2009: 'Movie Studio to Create 700 Jobs;' Six Years Later - Nada

Wonderstruck Studios never materialized

… example of why the state’s film subsidy program was vital for … a result of our aggressive film incentives we are not only … making the right decision to end film subsidies and use Michigan’s … effectively ends the state’s film subsidy program. Despite being … media darling, the state’s film incentives never generated … more

Mackinac Center Investigation Leads to Criminal Charge

… looked into the questionable Michigan film tax credit application Peters filed with the Michigan Film Office. The Mackinac Center called … Hangar42. Peters' company, West Michigan Film, purchased a large production studio … alleged investment. The Michigan Film Office and Michigan Economic Development … more

Michigan Taxpayers Fork Over $912K for Video Game

Fiscal expert: "[S]ubsidies to game makers doesn’t create new wealth, it just shifts it around. From whom was this money taken?"

… under the state’s 42 percent film tax incentive program. The Michigan Film Office has approved tax incentives … Hogan games, according to the film office’s 2010 annual report. … attorney who applied for the film tax incentive. The Royal Oak … MichCapCon Coverage of the Michigan Film Subsidy Michigan Film Subsidy … more

Roger Redux: Michael Moore’s Contradictions Are Old News

… policy of seeking Michigan's film tax subsidies for work being done on his films. And now the predatory interviewer … Me" — Moore's breakthrough film — reveals that contradictory … cover the cost of making a film that critiques ... taxpayer … in the state. Referring to film companies that come to Michigan … more

‘Wild River’ a Property Rights Classic

… director Elia Kazan's 1960 film "Wild River." It's hard to imagine that a film made by the director of "On … critic would argue that the film's property rights theme alone … civics class classic as well. Film critic and Kazan biographer … "comes close to being a great film in its — yes, laconic — humanization … more

State Law May Drive Job-Seeking Michigan Woman To Move Elsewhere

Lacking cosmetology license, she looks west for opportunity

… worked as a makeup artist on film and video projects. She also … But after Michigan ended its film subsidy program, she said, there have been fewer film opportunities in the state. Given that fewer film projects are available, Williams … able to do some makeup work on film projects and has volunteered … more

Roger Redux: Michael Moore's contradictions are old news

… policy of seeking Michigan's film tax subsidies for work being done on his films. And now the predatory interviewer … Me" — Moore's breakthrough film — reveals that contradictory … cover the cost of making a film that critiques ... taxpayer … in the state. Referring to film companies that come to Michigan … more

Weekly Roundup - Sept. 25

WXYZ 7 - Michigan's film incentive program has big problems. Detroit Free Press - Movie incentives come at a huge cost. ... New Jersey has decided to end their film taxpayer subsidies. Associated Press - General Motors says the Volt will … more

Classroom Gore: Global Warming Goes to School

… Times. The judge called it "a political film" when ruling on whether or not it could … condition that teachers balance the film's "one-sided" views. The Jackson Public … complaints from parents regarding the Gore film. She said a curriculum committee reviewed … school systems that have shown the Gore film. "It says that whatever curriculum … more

Should Michigan Taxpayers Have Been Forced to Spend $30 Million on 'Iron Man 3'?

… Richardville said negotiations for film tax incentives were ongoing to bring … Confidential Coverage of the Michigan Film Incentive Program New Transformers … Michigan Taxpayer $1.36 Michigan Film Subsidy Winner Costs 10x More to Make … Earns Real Steel or Reel Steal? New Film Costs $4.26 Per Michigan Taxpayer more

False Fears About Fracking

Bridge Magazine cites dishonest 'Gasland' scene

… The author cites the anti-fracking film, "Gasland," and references an infamous … cigarette lighter, and which the film's director attributed to natural gas … what they said when asked about the film scene: Terry Engelder, a professor … reasonably objective reporters regard the film as misinformation." Anthony Ingraffea, … more

Michigan Paying $860 Million In Select Tax Incentives, Subsidies

Favored businesses get preferences

… also come from state programs such as the Michigan film incentive program, which reimburses movie producers for expenses while filming in Michigan. According to the state treasury, … incentives are usually over within a year after the film is released, some other deals end up costing taxpayers … more

Lonely Are The Michigan Democrats Who Oppose State Checks To Corporations

Taxpayer-funded cash subsidies a bipartisan thing, but Dem dissenters are an endangered species

… 2015 she opposed a bill that repealed Michigan’s film subsidy program, which had given $40 million to … bill because it was a ploy to renegotiate with the film industry. My vote did not change the outcome of … journal to explain my vote. I have voted against film credits in the past. I am unequivocally against … more

Reality Check

It may sound good, but is it true?

… policy meeting on the Michigan Film Incentive, which gives tax … moment. Ryan said Wisconsin's film incentive program took some … The star was in Wisconsin to film "Public Enemies." The Wisconsin film subsidy does cover the cost … Fantle, chairman of the board of Film Wisconsin, said he had never … more

Michigan Gets Flying Monkeys for $40 Million

… the perceived benefits of filming the movie "Oz: The Great and … reasons aplenty for opposing film subsidies given to any movie. … most part, out of the 1939 film. Come to think of it, Disney’s … (also called Oz throughout the film) meets three witches, all of … a housing crash in the MGM film. As in Baum's source material, … more

Michigan Legislature Can Pursue Free-Market Agenda

… annual corporate welfare spending. Eliminating the film subsidy program. The state has spent nearly $500 million subsidizing film productions since 2008 with no overall increase in jobs in the film industry. Protect public safety and individual … more

Michigan House Republicans Find $1 Billion More for Roads with No Big Tax Hike

Corporate welfare gets the ax while new revenue flows to transportation

… organized, and $50 million in annual subsidies to film producers would be terminated. Launched in 2005, … the state has delivered around $500 million to film producers, while the number of full-time film jobs here has declined. Another $117 million would … more

Weekly Roundup - Dec. 4

… Obama announces freeze of federal pay. Daily Caller - ...federal workers will still receive raises. Macomb Daily - Gov.-elect Snyder wants to curtail film subsidies. Wall Street Journal - Tea party activists turn to local issues. Washington Post - TARP bank bailout money went to foreign firms and other … more

Allen Park Churches, Unions Team Up To Promote Tax Increase

A video of the 'unity rally'

… in support of a tax increase request. Allen Park is being overseen by an emergency manager for overspending — most notably on union contracts and a film studio deal that went bad. The rally had the support of local government leaders and the city government's two largest unions. The video below shows … more

Planet of the Humans

New Jeff Gibbs/Michael Moore documentary targets green energy

… between love and hate.” The film feels like the response of … that scene, Gibbs opens the film by detailing his belief in … environmental movement. But the film takes a twist from the stereotypical … wildlife habitat. Early in the film, Gibbs explained how he once … California for solar. He films the awkward confusion at PR … more

Special Deals Yield Far Fewer Jobs Than Projected

… 'Willful Neglect' Is the Rule at Embattled State Agency Analysis of Michigan Film Subsidies: Two Years, $117m — and No Film Job Growth State Websites Give History a Rewrite more

No Free Lunch: 'Taxing Teens at Taco Bell'

… Capitalism Fewer People Employed in Michigan Movie Industry Than Before Film Tax Credits Began Roger Redux: Michael Moore's contradictions are old news Sorry — Your Film Office Success Story Was Not Found more

This Week In Michigan, July 4

… House committee has unanimously approved new public disclosure rules for film tax credits. Livingston Daily Press & Argus - This will shed more light on movie money. LivingstonDaily.com - Another film office 'success story' doesn't survive scrutiny Grand Rapids Press - Should … more

Weekly Roundup - August 7

… Benishek holds a one vote lead.   WZZM13 - The primary investor for Hangar 42 film studio is charged with a felony. ...while contractors sue for back pay. … built in the U.S. than Japan. Daily Caller - "Michigan tax incentives for film production produces uncertain results, corruption, and political dispute." … more

Moore Wants More: Filmmaker Wants Increased Funds For Flint Schools But District Spends 'More Money Than Ever'

… Town Police Chief Michael Moore's 'Greed' Message Doesn't Apply to His Film's Financiers Michael Moore Urged to Withdraw Film Subsidy Application Michael Moore and Subsidies: A Love-Hate Story more

Pure Michigan’s Bid For More Tax Money

… justify government spending on everything from public transportation to film subsidies. Multiplier analyses take some economic activity and estimate …  51x Early Childhood Education  16x Earned Income Tax Credit  1.67x  Film Subsidies  6x  Tourism Advertising  40x  Transit Spending  4x   While … more

Rep. Sam Singh Says He Opposes Corporate Giveaways; His Voting Record Says Otherwise

Out of dozens of votes, it’s hard to find the Democrat opposing favoritism for select companies

… these subsidies. Singh voted twice against repealing cash subsidies to film producers in 2015. He was joined by 44 of 46 House Democrats and every Senate Democrat in voting to keep handing out the film subsidies. Singh also supported dozens of other bills that expanded corporate … more

Hangar42 Studios' Incentives Raise Questions

… and officials at the Michigan Film Office and the Michigan Economic … principals went unreturned. Michigan Film Office spokesman Ken Droz eventually … deal involves the Michigan Film Incentive program, created … investment made in a "qualified film and digital media infrastructure … of money involved in these film subsidy deals, combined with … more

Why Do Michigan’s Failed Economic Programs Stick Around?

… discussions on the Michigan film incentive highlight the importance … every $1 in taxes generated by film activity, deflating a hope of film incentive supporters that the … they expect a Michigan-based film industry, but two years after … argue that given enough time, film producers will stay in the … more

State Lawmakers Invite a Local Emergency Manager by Disregarding Michigan’s History

… Legislature’s ill-conceived Michigan Film Incentive. This program has … rebates and huge subsidies to film productions and film studios located in Michigan. … programs like the Michigan Film Incentive. Only brazen judicial … limited the size of the Michigan Film Incentive payouts and restricted … more

MEDC Boss Says Agency Changing; Has Long History of Backing Bad Companies

A look back at five MEDC-backed failures

… the attention that comes with film subsidies is from the media … Hollywood to claim $1.8 million in film incentives to do post-production work in 2011 after filming was done on the movie Spy … Company in 2011 and the Michigan Film Office trumpeted the deal in … Bankruptcy Speedshape: Another Film Subsidy Failure more

Politically Correct Capitalism

Is your business loved or spurned by Lansing?

… percent refundable tax credit for film production that takes place … special tax breaks. Last year, film production companies used this … State University review of the film incentive program estimates that the film crews brought in economic activity … 2007, the year before these film tax credits were in place, … more

Inconvenient Truths Disappear Down Government ‘Memory Holes’

… the praises of the Michigan Film Office and a Birch Run restaurant … “Oink Joint.” Used in a feature film subsidized by Michigan taxpayers, … Michigan’s highly controversial film subsidy for Hollywood producers. … Governing story was published, the Film Office was still boasting of … trusting the details on the Film Office website before writing … more

Trim Corporate Welfare to $0

… million). There also is a film office line item worth less … administration of the state's film subsidy program. The program … has proposed $25 million in film subsidies, a 50 percent cut … the General Fund. Michigan Film Office (Administration) $883,700 … the state’s Michigan-based film promotion efforts. The $234,900 … more

Noteworthy news that you may have missed this week…

… tax credit. The Mackinac Center, a critic of the film subsidy program, originally broke the story about … but three legislators voted 'yes' to launch the film subsidy adventure back in 2008." ...And MLive … that more transparency is needed for the Michigan Film Office and its tax credits. Mackinac Center - … more

I'm Just a Bill

… of the region. HOUSE BILL 6285 Narrow allowable film subsidy secrecy Introduced by state Rep. Dave … Freedom of Information Act exemption in the state film subsidy law. Under current law the state Film Office can keep secret information, records or … more

"Nicky's Family"

The inspiring story of Sir Nicholas Winton

… spent 96 mesmerizing minutes viewing the latest film release of the story of Sir Nicholas Winton at the Detroit Film Theatre within the Detroit Institute of Arts complex. … learning of Nicky’s actions for the first time. The film shares the story of 1939 in clips and through interviews … more

"Larry the Liquidator" on Senate Bill 1174

… economy and, God forbid, even make a few bucks for yourselves." This speech is from "Other People's Money," considered by some to be capitalism's finest film. "Predatory" investor "Larry the Liquidator's" (Danny DeVito) explains to shareholders considering a vote on a "hostile" takeover the virtue of encouraging … more

Corporate Welfare a Continual Failure

Time for government to focus on the basics

… incentives for politicians and the coverage from the media, these “bold” government projects too often are the norm. In recent years, this has included film subsidies, MEDC select business deals focusing on “green energy” and the “cool cities” project. It even led one former legislator to say that the MEDC … more

Educators Facing Off In Michigan's 59th House District

Superintendent Roger Rathburn vs. teacher Aaron Miller in the Republican primary

… also hand out $50 million per year in film credits. There has been a fight between … MEDC and would vote to eliminate the film subsidy program. “The state should … those subsidies more?” Regarding the film subsidy program, he added, “No, I do … Race Contrast Over Right-to-Work, Film Subsidies, Detroit Bailout In 31st … more

Stances on Corporate Welfare a Difference In Michigan's 39th House Race

Rep. Klint Kesto vs. Deb O'Hagan

… Economic Development Corp. (MEDC), the film subsidy program, and the state prevailing … spends about $300 million, and the film incentive program, which spends $50 … going to affect them next.” On the film subsidy program, she added, “Subsidizing … Race Contrast Over Right-to-Work, Film Subsidies, Detroit Bailout In 31st … more