Reeling ’em in: States hold attractive bait to lure filmmakers. Effort could draw jobs, encourage spending

It’s as stylish these days as the gowns on Oscar night – dangle a package of financial sweets in front of movie producers to try to lure them to your state.

Now Wisconsin has jumped into the game, later than many others, but with incentives described by people here and elsewhere as among the most attractive in the country.

Advocates hope that will draw filmmakers, high-wage jobs and spending at businesses from hotels to caterers.

But Wisconsin is hardly alone in its efforts. Some 35 states offer incentives, and some, such as Louisiana, New Mexico, South Carolina and Illinois, have particularly aggressive programs.

By RICK ROMELL
[email protected]

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