Film and television built Los Angeles, and has for decades played a significant role in the city’s economy.
But 2024 logged the lowest number of days of filming in the region since records began — with the exception of the pandemic standstill of 2020.
The reasons are complicated but, Ellis says, the bursting of the streaming bubble was a significant contributing factor.
Gone are the days when each studio tried to imitate Netflix, launching frequent glossy, high-budget TV series.
Shareholders are now looking for a return on their investments and want profits, instead of just the promise of growth.
As a result, studios are producing less and relocating what they do make — if Los Angeles isn’t losing out to other US destinations like New Mexico or Georgia, it’s facing competition from tax-efficient destinations like Thailand, Hungary and South Africa.
“I think the very foundation of Hollywood has been shaken to the core,” says Merrick.
“I honestly think tax incentives started the race to the bottom.”
Much like departing automakers hollowed out Motor City, Merrick worries that Los Angeles could become a shell of its former self.
“I’m originally from Detroit, Michigan, and we’ve seen this script play out before,” the armorer said.
“We’ve seen an entire industry outsourced to other regions where they can get cheaper and cheaper labor.”
– Artificial intelligence –
