Businesses, Screen Gems react to bigger film grant

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington businesses are reacting to a big boost for the state’s film industry.

Tuesday the state senate and house agreed to increase the film grant to $30 million dollars annually over the next two years. That is $20 million dollar increase compared to the last budget cycle.

For years, films like “Iron Man” and television shows like “Sleepy Hollow” brought daily sales to Wilmington’s Spectrum Paint store.

“We would go to the props department when “Iron Man” was here sometimes three times a day and they would just call and add on and add on,” Store Manager Michelle Gagliano said.

Gagliano said since the state’s former film incentive program that offered a 25% refundable tax credit expired last year, those daily film sales have changed.

“There is none,’ Gagliano said. “Now, it’s no more.”

Last year, legislators agreed on a $10 million film grant program, but this year they agreed to boost the grant to $30 million instead.

“This puts the North Carolina film industry back in the game and allows us to solicit new projects and attract television series that can create long term jobs,” Executive Vice President of Screen EUE/Gems Studios Bill Vassar said.

Gagliano was not as convinced.

“It’s hopeful for sure,” Gagliano said.

While she hopes film will one day strive again for everyone in the port city, Gagliano is not sure the grant is enough.

“Don’t make it like it’s a first step, because we are five steps back and now, maybe a step forward,” Gagliano said.

Both Senator Michael Lee and Representative Ted Davis said this is a victory for our region. They said they believe the film industry is back open for business.