BATON ROUGE, La. (Oct. 21, 2025) — Film Louisiana brought a taste of Southern hospitality to Hollywood during its Crawfish Étouffée & Cocktails reception on Oct. 15, an event celebrating Louisiana’s expanding film industry and newly modernized tax incentive program, Act 44.
The Los Angeles gathering connected film professionals, state representatives, and studio executives over authentic Louisiana cuisine and conversation—showcasing why the Bayou State continues to rank among the nation’s top film destinations.
“With the passage of Act 44, Louisiana now offers one of the most competitive and flexible incentive programs in the country,” said Jason Waggenspack, president of Film Louisiana. “We’re making sure studios know we can move at the speed of Hollywood. We’re open for business—with 40% labor credits, no per-project or per-person caps, and the long-term stability producers need.”
Act 44, which extends the state’s Motion Picture Production Tax Credit program through 2031, removes outdated restrictions while maintaining a $125 million annual cap. The reform underscores state leaders’ commitment to strengthening Louisiana’s film sector as a source of economic growth, jobs, and cultural visibility.
“Louisiana is more than a beautiful place to film—it’s a smart investment,” said Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser. “Every production shines a light on our unmatched locations, skilled crews, and welcoming communities. With stronger incentives and our one-of-a-kind hospitality, we’re ready to welcome even more filmmakers and visitors to Louisiana.”
A major highlight of the evening was the debut of the Louisiana Locations Lookbook, a visual guide designed to spotlight the state’s remarkable versatility—from historic districts and bayous to urban skylines and rural landscapes.
“The new Lookbook shows Louisiana’s incredible ability to transform on screen,” Waggenspack added. “Whether your story takes place in a European city, a tropical jungle, or a small-town street, you can film it here.”
The reception reinforced Louisiana’s growing reputation as a creative and production powerhouse—offering filmmakers modern incentives, world-class crews, and the unmistakable character that continues to draw Hollywood to the heart of the South.