Page 17 - Athens Chamber Guide 2015

Athens Becomes FILM INDUSTRY

Hollywood’s muse

The Athens-Clarke County Public Information Office serves as
the county’s official film liaison. Call them at (706) 613-3795.

Hollywood is spreading. Instead of town Americana. There is a wealth of
being confined to one city in one talent from students and recent grads to
state, it is now a state of being. experienced crew that has had decades
of experience in film and television.”
Hollywood has moved to Georgia, now Having worked in the film industry for
the third among states in film, television over 15 years, Ashley has moved from
and video game production, and the city New York to Birmingham to Los Angeles
of Athens is basking in the spotlight glow. and back to Athens, which certainly says a
In 2013, 142 feature film and television lot about Athens as a prime film location.
productions took place in Georgia. With Other TV shows such as Party Down
so much to offer, including the naturally South, Blockbuster hits like Trouble with
beautiful “sets” and one of the most the Curve, and even music videos from
competitive tax incentive programs in artists such as Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan,
the country – up to 30 percent – the state and John Mayer were also filmed in
has been crawling with movie scouts and Athens in recent years.
camera crews, particularly in Athens. Athens is currently taking strides to
According to Ashley Epting, producer become even more film-friendly, and the
of Black Tie & BBQ, Athens is an ideal city is ready to take its leading role in the
place to film: “Scenically, our downtown film industry.
can match for New York City and small
~by Dana Moody

Athens Area Chamber of Commerce • www.athensga.com • 706.549.6800 15