'Iron Man 3' to be filmed in NC

The movie's production is expected to create about 550 crew jobs and more than 1,000 talent opportunities.

Marvel Studios Co-President Louis D'Esposito said the region's unique filming opportunities will benefit the film's look.

EUE/Screen Gems Studio says motion picture executives at Marvel considered locations in Los Angeles, Michigan and New Mexico before deciding Wilmington had the right mix of space, talent, and taxpayer incentives.

Since 2010, North Carolina has offered a 25 percent tax credit as an incentive for production companies that spend a minimum of $250,000 in the state.

So far this year, 29 productions have set up offices throughout out the state and have spent more than $200 million while creating more than 3,000 crew, 500 talent and 21,000 background talent jobs

"'Iron Man 3' will add to this record-breaking year and carry over into 2012," Perdue said.

The third installment of the Marvel Comics superhero series stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, a wealthy industrialist who uses technology to help fight crime.

Scarlett Johansson and Don Cheadle are also reportedly starring in the film.

Pre-production is expected to start soon, with filming – the largest production to shoot in the state – beginning next summer at EUE/Screen Gem.

A release date is expected sometime in 2013.

Highlights of this year’s productions include the features "The Hunger Games" and "Journey 2: The Mysterious Island" as well as the TV series "Homeland," "Eastbound and Down" and "One Tree Hill."

In addition to "One Tree Hill," Wilmington has served as the filming spot for TV shows like "Dawson's Creek" and movies like "Sleeping With the Enemy" and "Weekend at Bernie's."