California expands film tax incentives, awarding $577.8 million in production spending to 51 new projects, boosting employment and regional filming beyond Los Angeles

Hollywood, California – In a significant announcement, Governor Gavin Newsom revealed that the California Film Commission has selected an unprecedented 51 film projects for the latest round of awards under the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program. This marks the largest number of projects ever approved in a single application window, underlining California’s unwavering dominance in the entertainment industry.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of these awards, stating that they are essential for keeping production in California. He highlighted that this initiative is not only about maintaining the state’s status as the entertainment capital of the world but also about generating substantial economic benefits.

According to the Governor, these projects are expected to spend approximately $346.9 million in wages and generate around $577.8 million in qualified expenditures across the state.

This round of tax credits is particularly noteworthy for its regional diversity, with 31 of the approved projects planning to film in locations beyond the traditional hub of Los Angeles. These include Contra Costa, Oakland, Ojai, Merced, and San Diego Counties, showcasing a broadened scope of filming locales across California.

The productions are set to employ 6,490 cast and crew members, along with 37,000 background performers (measured in days worked), reflecting the significant employment opportunities created by this initiative.

Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission, highlighted the critical role of the tax credit program, especially following the devastating wildfires in Southern California.

These natural disasters disrupted numerous productions, affecting employment for thousands and creating logistical challenges. Bell emphasized that the tax credit program is now more vital than ever, helping the industry recover and sustain its foundational role in the state’s economy.

Among the highlights from this round of awards are several high-profile projects:

• The “Untitled Daniels/Wang Project” by NBCUniversal, which is expected to receive $20.8 million in tax credits and generate estimated wages of $61.9 million.
• “Business Women” by Twentieth Century Studios, securing $5.7 million in tax credits with estimated wages of $27.6 million.
• “Behemoth!” by Dialogue Industries Inc., projected to bring in $36.1 million in total qualified spending.
• “Cut Off” by Warner Bros. Pictures, receiving $10 million in tax credits.
• “Untitled Drag Queen Movie” by World of Wonder Productions, which has secured $1.7 million in tax credits.

Notable industry figures also voiced their support for the program. Filmmakers The Daniels and Wang expressed gratitude for the tax credits, which were crucial in making their previous hit film “Everything Everywhere All At Once.” They are excited to continue their work in Los Angeles, contributing to job creation and supporting the local community.

RuPaul Charles, the producer behind the “Untitled Drag Queen Movie,” praised the tax credits for supporting the film’s financing and for helping to revitalize Hollywood’s workforce. He humorously noted, “Category is: there’s no place like home!”

As other states attempt to replicate California’s success in the entertainment industry, the latest developments affirm the state’s enduring allure and strategic commitment to fostering both creativity and economic growth through its robust support of film and television productions.