An announcement about the production was made today by Gov. Bob McDonnell, whose administration worked to put together a $4.6 million incentive package of tax credits, in-kind contributions and other funds to lure the film.
The "Lincoln" motion picture helmed by Spielberg stars Academy Award winning actors Daniel Day-Lewis as the former president and Sally Field as his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln.
It is based on the book "Team of Rivals," which examines Lincoln's political ascent and leadership in assembling a cabinet of political foes during a time of turbulence that resulted in a fractured nation.
Lincoln, a Republican, presided during the Civil War. He was assassinated during his second term.
Filming in Richmond and Petersburg is expected to begin this fall, with a planned movie release sometime next year.
“We are honored that Steven Spielberg, an award winning and visionary film maker, has chosen the Commonwealth for this important film. It is especially notable coming during the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and emancipation,” McDonnell said in a statement.
“Steven is an exceptional storyteller who brings historic themes to life on screen, resulting in such important and influential films as Saving Private Ryan, Schindler’s List, Munich and the mini-series Band of Brothers," the governor added. "I have no doubt that Lincoln will quickly join the ranks of those famous works.”
In the same statement, Spielberg said the state's "rich historic legacy, coupled with the remarkable period architecture found in Richmond and Petersburg, make Central Virginia the ideal location for this production.”
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