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Florida Film Industry Gains Momentum with New Productions and Local Incentives

BusinessEntertainment6d ago
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Several new television series and films have been produced in Florida, including ABC's 'R.J. Decker', Peacock's 'M.I.A.', and Apple TV's 'Bad Monkey'. These productions are supported by a network of county-level rebate programs and state sales tax exemptions, which are attracting projects without relying on statewide incentives. The industry's growth is further evidenced by upcoming projects and planned infrastructure development.

Facts First

  • ABC's 'R.J. Decker', Peacock's 'M.I.A.', and Apple TV's 'Bad Monkey' Season 1 were recently produced in Florida.
  • Several Florida counties offer regional rebates, including Broward County's 20% rebate capped at $500,000 and Orange County's five-year, $25 million program.
  • Florida provides a sales tax exemption of up to 7.5% on certain production-related rentals and purchases.
  • A deal is being planned to build new soundstages in central Fort Lauderdale.
  • The Miami Film Festival's 'Made in MIA' section featured 12 feature films in 2026, including 'Forge' by Jing Ai Ng.

What Happened

Recent television productions filmed in Florida include ABC's 'R.J. Decker', based on Carl Hiaasen's book 'Double Whammy', which shot location exteriors in Fort Lauderdale. Peacock's 'M.I.A.' filmed its entire season in South Florida, including neighborhoods like Little Havana and Wynwood, after a first scout led to that decision. Apple TV's Season 1 of 'Bad Monkey' was also produced in the state. These projects, along with Spanish-language content from Telemundo Studios and the independent film 'Baton', were produced without state-sponsored incentives.

Why this Matters to You

If you live in Florida, these productions may create more local job opportunities in film and television, particularly for crew members. The planned construction of new soundstages in Fort Lauderdale could lead to sustained economic activity and further job creation in your area. The growth of the local industry also means you may see more familiar locations featured in national television shows and films.

What's Next

HBO's comedy series 'It’s Florida, Man' is preparing for a third season, indicating continued production activity. The deal to build new soundstages in central Fort Lauderdale could provide a lasting infrastructure boost to the region's film industry. The Miami Film Festival's support through its 'Made in MIA' section and film funds may continue to foster local filmmaking talent.

Perspectives

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Creative Professionals argue that Florida provides an irreplaceable 'vibe' and 'emotional truth' that allows a setting to function as an integral character in a narrative.
“
Production Executives emphasize that the state offers practical advantages such as 'seamless' location days, 'terrific' local crews, and 'cost-effective' filming environments.
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Industry Analysts observe that while the state lacks formal state funding, the local film community has successfully developed its own incentives and leverages the state's 'incredibly diverse' geography and culture.