The California Film Commission this week upgraded its online location search engine in an attempt make location scouting easier and help keep film revenue within the state.
The newly reconfigured CinemaScout tool now allows users to run complex searches with multiple parameters for locations across the state, according to commission officials.
The search engine is available on the commission's Web site, www.film.ca.gov and offers motion picture, television, commercial and new media production companies access to a database of more than 4,000 film locations in the state, including low-cost state properties.
Using the new CinemaScout engine, a search of northern California locations within 50 miles of downtown Sacramento resulted in 175 locations, complete with photos, descriptions and contact information.
The commission reports that annual film production spending in the state is about $38 billion.
The state has lost film production revenue in recent years to other states, such as Louisiana and New Mexico, which offer tax breaks and other incentives to production studios.
"With this enhanced search engine, we can compete more effectively on the world stage, showcasing all the amazing landscapes California has to offer," said Dale E. Bonner, secretary of the state's Business, Transportation and Housing Agency.
Call The Bee's Niesha Lofing, (916) 321-1270.
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