(AAPNW) – Move over Hollywood because Illinois’ film industry is on track to experience tremendous growth in 2010. Last year film and television productions in Illinois generated more than $104 million in economic activity, and 2010 is growing by bounds; in fact, Governor Pat Quinn was on the set recently with the cast and crew of the new television drama “Ride-Along” to highlight its impact on Illinois’ economy. The police drama is expected to generate approximately $25 million economic activity and create more than 400 Illinois jobs.
“Ride-Along” is great example of how the film industry creates good Illinois jobs and improves our economy,” said Governor Quinn. “The state’s strengthened film tax credit demonstrates our commitment to growing this industry and creating more opportunities for people to work.”
Based in the Windy, the how follows its police detectives in their day-today lives on the streets. Created by Rockford native Shawn Ryan and stars Chicago native Jennifer Beals, will premiere midseason on FOX. “Without the cooperation of the state of Illinois, the Governor’s Office, the city of Chicago and the Illinois Film Commission, we never would have been able to film this series in the spectacular Chicagoland area,” said Ryan.