In light of the recent enactment of Georgia’s controversial “heartbeat” bill, which restricts abortions after a heartbeat can be detected, several filmmakers are choosing to withdraw their projects from the state to make a financial statement. This legislative move has sparked considerable backlash, prompting actors and directors to take a stand.
A notable example is Kristen Wiggins and her writing partner, Emma Reed, who had planned to shoot their comedy film, “Best Friends Go to Vista Del Mar,” in Georgia. This film, centered around female leads and their adventures, reflects a commitment to prioritizing women’s rights. By pulling out of Georgia, Wiggins and Reed send a clear signal that they advocate for women’s autonomy and dignity.
According to media reports, the film follows two lifelong friends from the Midwest embarking on their first vacation to Florida, where they encounter a series of unexpected events, including romance and intrigue. As Wiggins co-writes and stars in the project alongside Reed, the production team is now seeking a new filming location after the bill was signed into law.
Georgia is among several states that have adopted or are considering similar legislation, which typically allows for abortion bans as early as six weeks—often before a woman is even aware of her pregnancy. Governor Brian Kemp signed the bill in early May, igniting widespread criticism.
This reaction isn’t limited to Georgia, as other states like Alabama, Louisiana, and South Carolina face similar repercussions due to the passage of draconian abortion laws. What was once predominantly Hollywood’s territory is now seeing a shift, with smaller towns potentially facing economic downturns due to their legislative choices.
Georgia has been a favored destination for film and television production, offering a 30% tax rebate that has created an estimated 92,000 jobs in the industry. Wiggins is not alone in her stance; other prominent figures, including actors like Mark Taylor and Mia Johnson, have expressed intentions to leave the state should these restrictive laws move forward.
In response to the backlash, Governor Kemp dismissed concerns raised by “C-list celebrities” who threaten to boycott filming. He stated, “We’re elected to do what’s right – and standing up for precious life is always the right thing to do.” However, filmmakers and actors have rallied together, pledging their earnings to organizations like the Georgia chapter of the ACLU to combat such legislation while continuing their work in the state.
Chris Escobar, the executive director of the Atlanta Film Society, noted that the film industry is a unifying force regardless of political beliefs. “We saw whole sectors saved—from florists to caterers to carpenters to electricians,” he remarked.
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In summary, Kristen Wiggins’ decision to withdraw her film from Georgia highlights the ongoing response to restrictive reproductive laws, demonstrating the power of the film industry in advocating for women’s rights while navigating the complexities of production logistics.
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