AceShowbiz - The California Film Commission has announced the approval of 38 new film and television projects to receive tax incentives under the state's expanded production tax credit program. Notably, this includes Disney's upcoming animated feature films for the series The Simpsons and Phineas and Ferb.

The recent changes to California's tax incentive program now allow animated productions to qualify, a shift that benefits projects such as the highly anticipated The Simpsons Movie 2, scheduled for release in 2027, and a new Phineas and Ferb film being developed for Disney+. Additionally, an untitled feature from DreamWorks Animation has also been granted tax credits.

"This round marks a truly exciting milestone for our program," said Colleen Bell, director of the California Film Commission. "For the first time, we're welcoming animated feature films from powerhouses DreamWorks Animation and Walt Disney, alongside a strong slate of big budget features and independent productions, that bring fresh voices and original storytelling to the screen."

Bell emphasized the economic benefits of the program, noting that over 45% of filming days occur outside the traditional studio zone. "We're seeing the real-world economic impact... reaching communities across the entire state. That's what this program is about: creating good-paying jobs and supporting local businesses, while bolstering California's creative economy in regions across the state."

Among the other approved projects this round are an untitled Paramount crime thriller, the dark comedy Self-Help starring Kirsten Dunst and produced by Will Ferrell, Black is Blue featuring Laverne Cox, and The Renewal, produced by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck.

Since California lawmakers increased the tax credit program's cap from $330 million to $750 million—a 53% increase year-over-year—the California Film Commission has approved a total of 147 projects. These are expected to generate 21,509 entertainment jobs and $5.5 billion in economic activity statewide.

This latest batch of 38 projects will add an estimated 1,019 shooting days, with 463 of those scheduled outside Los Angeles in counties including Humboldt, Inyo, Kern, Mendocino, Nevada, San Francisco, San Diego, Marin, and Ventura. This geographic distribution highlights the program’s goal to stimulate economic growth across California’s diverse regions.