In two weeks, Ben Affleck’s “Live By Night” will premiere in theaters across the country, showcasing Ybor City and a piece of Tampa history.
And believe it or not, local leaders aren’t that happy about it. That’s because filmmakers passed on shooting the movie in Ybor City, instead opting to build a fake set in Georgia. Because of film incentives, it was cheaper to build a set elsewhere.
Dale Gordon, Tampa Hillsborough Film and Digital Media Commissioner, calls it a devastating blow. Gordon again called on state lawmakers to fund a state incentives package to lure major motion pictures to the area.
“It’s heartbreaking to know that part of our heritage, part of our story, part of what makes Tampa and Ybor unique, is being told elsewhere,” said Gordon.
Georgia offered millions in incentives, making it an easy choice for Affleck and crew to recreate Ybor City and save a bundle in the process.
See more at MyNews13.com.
