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Transformers Returning to Michigan, Approved for Film Incentive

LANSING – Finally, a big-budget movie is coming to Michigan under the state's shrunken film incentive program.

The Michigan Film Office announced Wednesday the feature film Transformers 4 has been approved for a film incentive from the state.

Transformers 4, expected to film this spring in metro Detroit, opens soon after the end of Transformers: Dark of the Moon, where a great battle left a city torn -- but with the world once again saved.

"It speaks volumes about all Michigan has to offer that Transformers is returning once again to our state," said Margaret O'Riley, director of the Michigan Film Office. "This project will shine another bright spotlight on Michigan and provide tremendous opportunities for our cast, crew and support services.

Transformers 4 was awarded an incentive of $20 million on $81,933,992 of projected in-state expenditures. The project is expected to hire 368 Michigan workers with a full time equivalent of 339 jobs.

As humanity picks up the pieces, following the conclusion of Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Autobots and Decepticons have all but vanished from the face of the planet. However, a group of powerful, ingenious businessman and scientists attempt to learn from past Transformer incursions and push the boundaries of technology beyond what they can control – all while an ancient, powerful Transformer menace sets Earth in his crosshairs.

The epic adventure and battle between good and evil, freedom and enslavement ensues.

Transformers 4 is the third film in the series to use Detroit as a backdrop.  The first Transformers, released in 2007, and Transformers: Dark of the Moon, released in 2011, also filmed in metro Detroit.

In fiscal year 2013, 13 projects have been awarded a total of $30,962,806 on $120,172,305 of approved production expenditures for the year.  These projects are expected to create 1,190 Michigan hires with a full time equivalent of 559 jobs.

The Michigan Economic Development Corp. Film Review Committee, comprised of senior MEDC staff including the Michigan Film Commissioner, reviews all completed applications using the statute to guide approval decisions.

The Michigan Film Office was created in 1979 to assist and attract incoming production companies and promote the growth of Michigan's own film industry. The Film Office also administers the incentive program for film, television and other digital media production in Michigan. For more on the Michigan Film Office, visit: www.MichiganFilmOffice.org.

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