Hollywood Heat

Now that a very tough, anti-abortion law has been vetoed by Louisiana Gov. Buddy Roemer, the folks down at the state’s Office of Film & Video in Baton Rouge are breathing a sigh of relief--at least for now.

Office director Glen Pitre tells us that while the legislation was pending his office got “a number of calls from very reputable producers who said that the passage of such a law would affect their choice of locations.” Pitre passed the comments on to the lieutenant governor and gave callers the governor’s phone number, but isn’t sure about what impact, if any, the protests had.

In Louisiana, Pitre says, the movie industry contributes $25 million-$40 million yearly to the state economy. Recent movies shot in the gumbo state include “Steel Magnolias” and, upcoming, “Zandalee” (with Nicolas Cage and Judge Reinhold), “Scorchers” (Faye Dunaway), “Convicts” (Robert Duvall) and “Miller’s Crossing” (Albert Finney).

Pitre says he’s relieved that the governor vetoed the law, but points out that foes of abortion rights are said to be regrouping for another battle.

Unnoticed in all the abortion law furor: The legislature also passed a bill giving filmmakers a rebate of the 4% sales tax they spend in the state.