February 27, 2012 - Louisiana has always been a place that fosters creativity in music, film and literature. As all things seem to go digital these days, so has the creative base of the Bayou state. From New Orleans’ vibe to the mysteries of its moss laden trees, Louisiana has cemented its position as one of the country’s go-to places for creative industries.
Last night at the 84th annual Academy Awards, Shreveport’s own, Bruce Joyce and Brandon Oldenburg of Moonbot Studios won for best animated short with their film "The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore". Lessmore has turned into more than a film…it has gone digital – it’s an app and there are more plans to leverage it across more digital platforms.
Moonbot’s Oscar win is just the beginning of what is coming out of Louisiana. To put it in simple terms, the state is booming.
-From 2008-2012 there were 275 film projects in Louisiana, bringing $1.1 Billion to the state in 2011 alone;
-Louisiana has attracted Electronic Arts, Gameloft, and GE Capital just announced it is putting a 300 person IT development operation in New Orleans;
-At 35%, Louisiana has a Digital Media and Software Incentive which is the strongest in the country.
Secretary Moret of Louisiana Economic Development worked closely with Moonbot Studios in securing tax incentives which enabled them to grow their studio and achieve rapid success.