Computer Rental: Does Your Production Company ‘Heart’ Connecticut?

What does movie production, slasher thrills, shameless commercialization and the state of Connecticut have in common? Why, the revelation of the state’s production tax credits to the common man, of course, thanks to the clever antics of Tina Fey and NBC in an episode of "30 Rock" aired earlier this month.

In the episode titled, "I Heart Connecticut," character Jenna Maroney (portrayed by Jane Krakowski) stars in a torture flick filmed in Stamford, Conn. for the real-life tax credit incentive commonly known among those in the industry. When Connecticut disapproves of the movie’s distasteful portrayal of the state, NBC mogul Jack Donaghy (portrayed by Alec Baldwin) swings in to ensure cameras keep rolling by kissing the fanny of the powers that be with lines like: "Oh please, don't kill me. I still haven't tried the famous seafood pizza at Sally's in New Haven," and other flagrant plugs.

In reality, the actual tax credit originated in the Connecticut General Assembly in 2006 for the production of digital media and motion pictures in the state, according to the state of Connecticut government website. A year later, it was amended by Public Act 07-236 and again in 2009 by House Bill 6802.

Beginning in 2010, the bill increased minimum expenditure to $100,000 making the credit dependent on the total amount of production costs. Those production companies tallying costs between $100,000 and $500,000 are eligible for a 10 percent credit, between $500,000 and $1 million are eligible for a 15 percent credit, and those who go over $1 million get a 30 percent credit.

Stamford’s close proximity to New York City makes the location an attractive option for numerous production companies—like the fictional film producer portrayed in 30 Rock, to those real companies looking to shoot TV pilots and other projects.

As a supplier to these companies, Vernon Computer Source, also locally based in Stamford, provides a cost-effective solution providing computer rental in addition to the option of renting iPad/iPad 2, servers and more. With a $40 million inventory and flexible renting options, production companies can utilize our IT rentals regardless to the often unpredictable length of production.

Now, content matter and Connecticut regulations are an entirely separate matter. Steer clear of the twisted sorts of slasher films and torture and you perhaps you won’t have Muppets, a torture leader donned with a Santa Hat, and B-roll with shout-outs to UCONN interrupting your creative process.