Movie Filmed in AZ Opens Nationwide

The latest blockbuster movie filmed in Arizona opened in theaters nationwide on Friday, September 28. "The Kingdom," much of which was filmed in 2006 in Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa and other Arizona locations, stars Academy Award © winner Jamie Foxx, Chris Cooper, Jennifer Garner and Jason Bateman. "The Kingdom" is produced by Universal Pictures, which previewed the film in Tempe last week. Film, commercial and documentary productions improve the state's economic vitality and the retention of a young, and sought after, talent pool. "Arizona is increasingly becoming a choice for makers of film and other video production projects," said Arizona Department of Commerce Director Jan Lesher. "These showcase the multitude of landscapes our state offers, and are a viable contributor to our economy." Movies that have recently wrapped production and are expected to be released in the coming months include "Jolene," starring Jessica Chastain, Dermot Mulroney and Chazz Palminteri; "Vacuuming the Cat," starring Ron Perlman, Barbara Hershey and Daniel Gillies; and "Jake's Corner," starring Diane Ladd, Richard Tyson and Colton Rodgers. The Arizona Motion Picture Tax Incentive Program - administered by the Arizona Department of Commerce's Film Office - is now in its second year. Thus far, the state has pre-approved 28 companies for productions in Arizona. It is estimated that these productions will contribute $237 million to the state's economy over the next 24 months.