Dayton reeling in the benefits of films

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - Ohio is now one of the top 5 states for film-making, thanks to the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit.  

Since it began in 2010, the Ohio Film Office has provided more than $52 million in tax breaks to Ohio productions, employed more than 19,000 Ohioans and contributed nearly $205 million to the state's economy.

So far, the makers of 44 films, television series or commercials have taken advantage of it.

And the Miami Valley is reeling in those benefits.

"Along with film, comes the arts with it but it also creates jobs for cast and crew, hotels are filled, equipment is rented, restaurants are busy," says Megan Cooper, FilmDayton's executive director.

FilmDayton. which began in 2008, is helping promote the rich resources in the area. For the past four years, the non-profit has held a film festival to do just that.

"Wright State University is a nationally ranked film program.  We have Emmy and Academy Award winning filmmakers who chose to live and work in the region and we've got the talent and the locations and the capabilities to play with the industry," comments Cooper.

Two new movies are slated to film here in Dayton. The Tribunal is expected to bring 200 jobs, while The Do Over should create about 60 jobs.

And, there's a way for you to get involved in these productions.

"We're inviting property owners, home owners, people who own businesses, restaurants, bars, industrial sites.  If you want to be open for the film business, we're encouraging you to submit a photo to the Film Dayton Location Guide," explains Cooper.

For more information, go here .