The Pennsylvania film industry is poised for a major boost, with 11 new TV and film projects set to generate more than $36.7 million in economic impact and create nearly 2,200 jobs across the Commonwealth. This impressive growth comes as the Pennsylvania Film Office, under the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), awards $9.2 million in film tax credits to Netflix, Sight & Sound Productions, and a series of smaller local producers. These projects highlight the critical role tax incentives play in attracting large-scale productions and supporting homegrown talent.

Leveraging Pennsylvania’s Film Tax Credit Program

Pennsylvania’s Film Production Tax Credit program offers a 25% tax credit to productions that spend at least 60% of their total budget in the state. Eligible projects range from feature films and television series to commercials and pilots. Film Commissioner Gino Anthony Pesi emphasized how this program positions Pennsylvania as a competitive destination for productions, creating ripple effects across regional and statewide economies.

“Production companies of all sizes recognize the incredible locations, people, and amenities we have in Pennsylvania, and our Film Production Tax Credit program makes us more competitive in attracting them,” said Pesi. “By reinvesting in Pennsylvanians and nurturing our homegrown talent, we’re building creative communities and pathways for success across all regions of the Commonwealth.”

Projects Driving Pennsylvania’s Film Renaissance

Three major initiatives underscore the program’s impact:

1. Netflix Series Tires (Season Two):
   Filming in Philadelphia, this comedy series starring Mechanicsburg native Shane Gillis has received $5.5 million in tax credits. With an estimated $22 million flowing into the local economy and 886 jobs created, Tires exemplifies the economic and cultural benefits of Pennsylvania’s incentives.

2. Sight & Sound’s A Great Awakening:
   Filming in Philadelphia and Lancaster County, this feature project from the Pennsylvania-based production company received $2.6 million in tax credits. The production is projected to contribute $10.4 million to the region’s economy while supporting 846 jobs.

3. Pennsylvania Film Producer Reserve:
   Designed to uplift smaller, locally rooted filmmakers, this initiative awarded $1.1 million in tax credits to 10 projects across 11 counties. These projects, which include feature films, documentaries, and episodic content, will create 443 jobs and generate $4.3 million for regional economies.

Empowering Local Creatives

The tax credit program isn’t just attracting big players like Netflix—it’s also a lifeline for smaller production companies like FreshFly Productions. Chayne Gregg, Executive Producer at FreshFly, spoke to the transformative power of the program:

“The film tax credits enable us to pursue Pennsylvania-based projects, spend money locally, and hire people from the area,” Gregg said. “This creates an amazing wheel of support, allowing small businesses like ours to stay competitive when pitching projects to distribution outlets.”

This sentiment is echoed by Sight & Sound’s Joshua Enck, who highlighted the importance of filming on location in Pennsylvania. “This inspiring true story is set against the backdrop of Philadelphia during our nation’s most foundational years,” said Enck. “It’s an honor to be filming in so many beautiful areas throughout the state, including Philadelphia, Lancaster County, and our own backlot in Strasburg.”

A Bright Future for Pennsylvania’s Film Industry

As Pennsylvania continues to invest in its creative economy, the results are undeniable: thriving local businesses, a growing workforce, and millions in economic impact. By pairing world-class locations with competitive tax incentives, the Commonwealth is not just keeping pace with other production hubs—it’s setting the stage for long-term success in the film and television industry.

This latest round of projects is a testament to the collaborative efforts of state leaders and industry stakeholders to make Pennsylvania a premier destination for filmmakers. With its commitment to nurturing both blockbuster productions and independent creators, the Keystone State is writing the next chapter in its storied film history.