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Will Hollywood’s behind-the-scenes workers stay?

4 snips
Mar 1, 2025
Filming outside of Los Angeles is booming as studios seek cost-effective options, prompting lighting techs and other behind-the-scenes workers to follow. Recent wildfires have worsened housing struggles for these workers, forcing tough choices about living costs. The conversation also dives into rising utility expenses attributed to cold weather, impacting many households. Lastly, the surprising resurgence of frozen foods gains traction as chefs and new cooking techniques change perceptions around this often-dismissed option.
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INSIGHT

LA Film Industry Decline

  • Wildfires and a generous tax credit in Georgia caused film production to drop by 39% in LA since 2017.
  • This makes it harder for below-the-line workers to afford housing, potentially accelerating the decline.
ANECDOTE

Den of Thieves Filming Location

  • Location scout Danny Finn noticed the 2018 film Den of Thieves, set in LA, was shot in Atlanta.
  • He felt validated as an LA location manager, as the film couldn't truly replicate LA's unique landmarks.
ANECDOTE

Moving to Atlanta for Film Work

  • Lighting technician Todd Brown moved from LA to Atlanta in 2022 due to lower housing costs.
  • He bought a large house for under $1 million and found less competition in Atlanta's younger workforce.
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