Improvements in treasurer’s film loans

State treasurer
Judy Baar Topinka

State treasurer Judy Baar Topinka wants filmmakers to know that her department’s two-year old Lights, Camera! Illinois low- interest loans are very much available, and she encourages enquiry about their use for Illinois-made films.

The most recent Lights, Camera! beneficiary is writer/director Pete Jones, of Project Greenlight fame, who is wrapping his indie feature, “Doubting Riley.” Two other movies are also coming up for funding, she said.

To make the program more accessible, it’s been modified to stretch the payback period up to a maximum of five years. Topinka explained that producers are now allowed three 12-month repayment extensions.

“I believe strongly in all the great talent here,” the Treasurer said, “and I’m hoping our program will be the seed that inspires growth in the industry throughout the state.” For information, call Chuck Hagopian, 312/814-1793.