Hollywood producer remains steadfast in Los Angeles amidst city fires: Defiant refusal to depart from L.A.
California's film industry is experiencing a resurgence, thanks to recent changes in the state's tax credit program and the increased funding allocated to it. Gov. Gavin Newsom approved these changes over the summer, and they have now largely gone into effect.
One of the biggest beneficiaries of these improvements is David E. Kelley Productions, led by president Matthew Tinker. The company, known for legal dramas such as 'Ally McBeal' and 'The Practice,' has decided to film all current projects in Los Angeles.
The Apple TV+ series 'Margo's Got Money Troubles,' one of the projects under David E. Kelley's production, was set to start filming in early January. However, wildfires hit the Los Angeles area, devastating Pacific Palisades and Altadena, forcing a temporary halt to production. Despite the setbacks, the show was able to shoot both in the Los Angeles area and travel to Las Vegas for four days of filming.
The California Film Commission awarded tax credits to a total of 22 shows in the first round after the program was revamped. Of these, 18 are slated to film largely in Greater L.A. This shift in production location is a result of the adjustments filmmakers must make due to Los Angeles being more costly than other locations. These adjustments include shooting a TV series in 85 days instead of 100, or reducing daily filming hours.
The California Film Commission's executive director, Colleen Bell, mentioned that there is a lot of momentum in the industry due to these improvements. She also noted a 400% increase in applications for the film and TV tax credit program.
However, production activity in L.A. is down 9% compared with last year. This decline is partly due to the challenges posed by the pandemic and the wildfires. Despite this, the more that people have hope in the future of California as a production destination, the more shows are likely to film in the state.
The crew members of 'Margo's Got Money Troubles' were not immune to the hardships faced by the industry. Many lost their homes or were dealing with severe smoke damage. However, the show's resilience and the support of the California Film Commission are helping to rebuild and revitalize the industry.
The new activity is much needed, as 2024 was the second-worst year on record for production in the area after 2020. The California film and TV tax credit program's annual funding has been increased to $750 million, and eligibility criteria have been expanded to allow more projects to apply.
Among the projects that will shoot in Los Angeles are the third season of 'Big Little Lies' and 'The Lincoln Lawyer.' These shows, along with others, are expected to contribute significantly to the revitalization of California's film industry.
In addition to providing economic benefits, the increased production activity also offers opportunities for local crew members and businesses. As the industry continues to grow, it is hoped that more people will find employment and that local businesses will thrive.
In conclusion, the changes to California's film and television tax credit program are helping to revitalize the industry and attract more production activity to the state. With the increased funding and expanded eligibility criteria, it is expected that more shows will film in California, providing economic benefits and opportunities for local residents and businesses.
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