‘Bad Monkey’ Gets $20 Million Tax Credit to Move From Florida to California

As a long-time admirer of the artistry that flourishes behind the camera and the magic that unfolds on-screen, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement at the news that California is stepping up its game with these generous tax incentives for film and TV productions.

As a movie critic hailing from the Sunshine State, let me share my thoughts on “Bad Monkey,” a series that proudly wears its Florida roots on its sleeve. This captivating tale, derived from the works of Carl Hiaasen, unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of the Florida Keys – an environment as intriguing and quirky as the story itself.

But that’s changing for Season 2.

The streaming series, available on Apple TV+, is planning to relocate to California, enticed by a $20.6 million state tax incentive offer.

The tax allocation was one of 10 announced Wednesday, totaling $108.6 million.

Each year, California grants approximately $330 million in tax credits to film and television productions. Governor Gavin Newsom has announced plans, made in October, to boost this amount to around $750 million annually in the upcoming budget. This move comes as film crews are still grappling with a sluggish recovery following the 2023 strikes.

Colleen Bell, head of the California Film Commission, stated in a press announcement that they are putting forth great effort to ensure filming continues in California. These tax incentives not only help maintain jobs within our state and stimulate economic development, but their influence extends beyond the entertainment sector – they bolster families, local businesses, and communities across California,” is one way of paraphrasing the given statement.

In addition to Apple TV+’s lineup, the series “Imperfect Women,” featuring stars like Kerry Washington and Elisabeth Moss, will also qualify for a tax credit when filming in Los Angeles. This production, handled by 20th Television, is set to receive a financial incentive of $12.5 million.

Apple Studios is also getting another $10.7 million to film an untitled TV series.

Disney was the big winner this round, with four projects totaling $43.5 million in tax credits.

As a movie critic penning my thoughts, I’m thrilled to share that Universal Studios has received an additional $10.4 million under California’s $150 million initiative aimed at encouraging soundstage construction – “The Burbs” being the fortunate beneficiary so far. This expansion of their lot is a significant stride, with a total of $46 million allocated to three productions filmed on-site, including “Suits L.A.” and two seasons of the captivating series “Quantum Leap”.

Also on the list is “L.A. Nights,” a show from HBO that snagged $19.4 million.

The full list:

TV shows:“L.A. Nights,” HBO (Cooler Waters Productions), $19.4 millionUntitled Apple Studios series, Apple Studios, $10.7 million“Bad Monkey” Season 2, Warner Bros. Discovery, $20.6 million“Imperfect Women,” 20th Television, $12.5 millionUntitled Disney+ miniseries, Disney, $14.7 million“Kate’s Story,” Kate’s Story LLC, $875,000LCS Season 1, LCS Productions, $3 millionFilm:Untitled 20th Century film, 20th Century Productions, $5.9 million“Whalefall,” Disney, $10.4 millionSoundstage:“The Burbs” Season 1, Universal, $10.4 million

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2024-12-18 18:17