Hollywood’s Struggle: Can California Win Back Film & TV Production?
Los Angeles is facing a critical juncture in its storied history as a media production hub. Recent data reveals a concerning 16.1% drop in film and television shoot days in 2025 compared to the previous year, hitting a low not seen since 2020. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about jobs, economic impact, and the very identity of the entertainment capital of the world.
The Exodus: Why is Production Leaving LA?
The reasons behind this decline are multifaceted. The “runaway production” phenomenon – where studios choose to film elsewhere – continues to be a major issue. States like Georgia, North Carolina, and even international locations offer increasingly attractive financial incentives, lower costs, and sometimes, more favorable filming conditions. The lingering effects of the pandemic and the disruptive 2023 writers’ and actors’ strikes further exacerbated the problem, creating uncertainty and delays.
Beyond incentives, logistical challenges and rising costs in Los Angeles contribute to the outflow. Securing permits, finding suitable locations, and managing the complexities of a large-scale production can be significantly more difficult and expensive in LA than in other regions.
Did you know? Georgia has become a major production hub, offering a 30% tax credit on qualified production expenses, with an additional 5% credit for using the Georgia logo. This has attracted major productions like “The Walking Dead” and numerous Marvel films.
California Fights Back: The Incentive Program Overhaul
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, California lawmakers responded with a significant overhaul of the state’s film and TV production incentive program. A bill passed last year increased the annual cap and broadened eligibility criteria, aiming to make California more competitive. The inclusion of 20-minute shows in the qualification categories is particularly noteworthy, potentially attracting more TV comedy production.
The revamped program is already showing early signs of success. Over 100 projects have been awarded incentives, including high-profile productions like the “Baywatch” reboot and a new “Jumanji” movie. Notably, some projects, like the action series “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” are returning to California after previously filming in other states and countries.
The Fourth Quarter Downturn: A Deeper Dive into the Numbers
Despite the positive developments with the incentive program, the fourth quarter of 2025 revealed a continued downturn. On-location production totaled 4,625 shoot days, a 21.1% decrease year-over-year. Commercials experienced the steepest decline (23.2%), followed by television (21.9%) and feature films (19.7%).
Within the television sector, pilot filming saw a dramatic 62.5% drop, signaling potential concerns about the development of new series. However, reality TV and TV comedy filming showed more moderate declines, suggesting some resilience in those genres.
Looking Ahead: Trends and Potential Rebound
While the 2025 numbers are discouraging, industry experts remain cautiously optimistic. Philip Sokoloski, FilmLA’s vice president of integrated communications, emphasizes that the impact of the incentivized projects will take time to materialize in the data. The key trends to watch include:
- The Effectiveness of the New Incentives: Will the increased cap and expanded eligibility truly attract and retain production in California?
- The Rise of Streaming: The continued growth of streaming services could create new opportunities for production, but also increased competition for incentives.
- Labor Negotiations: Future labor negotiations with unions will be crucial in maintaining a stable and predictable production environment.
- Technological Advancements: Virtual production and other technological innovations could potentially reduce the need for on-location filming, impacting all production centers.
Pro Tip: Studios are increasingly utilizing virtual production techniques, which allow them to create realistic environments without the need for extensive location shooting. This trend could reshape the future of film and TV production, potentially lessening the reliance on specific geographic locations.
FAQ: California Film Production
Q: Why is Georgia so popular for filming?
A: Georgia offers a generous 30% tax credit on production expenses, making it financially attractive for studios.
Q: What is California doing to compete?
A: California has increased its film and TV tax credit program, expanding eligibility and raising the annual cap.
Q: Will the incentive program immediately reverse the decline in production?
A: No, it will take time for the awarded projects to begin filming and impact the overall production numbers.
Q: What types of productions are most affected by the decline?
A: Commercials, television pilots, and feature films have seen the most significant drops in production.
Q: Where can I find more information about filming incentives in California?
A: Visit the California Film Commission website for detailed information on available incentives and eligibility requirements.
What are your thoughts on the future of film and television production in California? Share your opinions in the comments below! Explore our other articles on the entertainment industry for more insights. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the latest developments.
