SALT LAKE CITY — The Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (Go Utah) Board approved 13 new productions for state film incentives, said the Utah Film Commission. The new productions will generate an estimated economic impact of $142.5 million. Furthermore, about 90 percent of the films will take place in rural parts of the state. 

New film productions

In 2022, the Utah legislature voted to expand the state’s film industry competitiveness. Also, to encourage film production in rural communities across Utah. 

“With the new targeted rural film tax credit, a ready workforce, and a business-friendly climate, Utah will introduce the film industry to new communities while supporting Gov. Cox’s goal of expanding economic opportunities throughout the state,” said Dan Hemmert, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.

The new film productions will include a mixture of feature films and episode series. 

According to the Utah Film Commission, the approved productions include Kevin Costner’s period Western, Horizon: An American Saga; Joy to the World, a new feature from Jerusha Hess, co-writer of Napoleon Dynamite; and a new untitled limited series from Taylor Sheridan, creator of Yellowstone. 

Furthermore, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, FX/Hulu, Nickelodeon, Paramount+, and theaters will stream the approved productions. 

Also, the Utah Film Commission said the film industry brings immediate economic impact to communities. 

“This new rural film incentive allows Utah to attract more film production and remain competitive,” said Virginia Pearce, director of the Utah Film Commission, a Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity initiative.

The full list of approved productions can be found here. 

More about the Utah Film Commission 

The Utah Film Commission promotes the use of local crew and talent, support services, Utah locations, and the Motion Picture Incentive Program. Also, the commission acts as a facilitator for production needs across the state. 

Furthermore, the commission’s webpage has a form you can complete to obtain support on Utah productions. 

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