Written by new-contact on May 11, 2011. Posted in On Location

Chicago invests in new Cinespace Film Studios to rival Hollywood

The Governor of Chicago has formally announced a USD5 million investment from the city in a new Cinespace Studios facility. Governor Pat Quinn’s announcement marked a celebration of the studio, which has already been used for a couple of big-budget productions.

Development will continue and the studios, which are built on the site of an old steel plant, will eventually offer 1.2 million square feet of floor space over nearly 50 acres. The intention is to turn it into the biggest studio facility in the US outside Hollywood.

Our film production industry is thriving, but the opening of Cinespace Chicago Film Studios launches a new era when it comes to attracting big-budget movies and TV series.

Betsy Sheinberg, Director, Illinois Film Office

Governor Quinn said: “Illinois is known for its excellent crew, iconic shooting locations and aggressive tax incentives. Now with new stage space available, we are the complete package – truly a world-class film destination.”

Betsy Steinberg, Director of the Illinois Film Office (IFO), said: “Illinois - and Chicago in particular - has played a lead role in some of TV and film’s most iconic settings. Our film production industry is thriving, but the opening of Cinespace Chicago Film Studios launches a new era when it comes to attracting big-budget movies and TV series.”

According to IFO figures, film industry spending in Illinois in 2010 reached USD161 million. The state offers a 30% tax incentive.