As Los Angeles grapples with a historic production decline, the global entertainment landscape is undergoing a significant shift. In 2024, LA’s shoot days for TV dramas plummeted to just 12 in Q2, compared to a staggering 1,198 in the same period two years ago. Feature film shoot days in LA were down by 48% in Q3 compared to their five-year average. This is more than a temporary disruption—it's a realignment of where global productions are taking place, and the UK, particularly London, is emerging as a strong
contender.
Why London is Poised to Become the New Global Production Hub
As LA struggles with its production downturn, London is stepping up with the UK’s newly announced 40% tax credit for high-end TV and film production. This couldn’t have come at a better time for international filmmakers, who are increasingly looking to stretch their budgets without sacrificing quality. The tax incentives, combined with the UK’s experienced workforce, diverse locations, and world-class post-production facilities, position London as a highly attractive destination for global productions.
Studios are beginning to ask, “Where can we maintain production value while getting more for our investment?” With incentives this strong, London is becoming the answer. The UK’s thriving film industry, bolstered by these new tax credits, is already catering to a growing number of international projects.
A Shift in Global Production
The decline in LA’s production activity is not just affecting high-profile actors and directors—it’s hitting the below-the-line crew hardest, the workers who often can’t afford to relocate for work. London, on the other hand, offers a stable and competitive environment for these professionals, making it an appealing option for productions of all sizes.
Recent data indicates that TV comedy and drama production in LA has also seen significant drops. In contrast, London is seeing increased interest from both domestic and international productions, as filmmakers take advantage of the UK’s tax credits and infrastructure to create high-quality content at a fraction of the cost of LA.
The UK's Competitive Edge
London isn’t just about tax incentives. The city boasts a rich talent pool, including award-winning directors, cinematographers, and technicians who are experienced in working on high-end productions. Its state-of-the-art infrastructure—from sound stages to post-production houses—ensures that films shot in the UK maintain the highest quality. And let’s not forget the incredible variety of locations, from historic landmarks to modern urban settings, that make London a versatile filming destination.
Can London Become the Next LA?
With production figures in Los Angeles reaching historic lows and no sign of a quick recovery, it’s becoming increasingly clear that London is on its way to becoming the next global production hub. The UK’s strategic vision, aggressive incentives, and deep commitment to supporting the film industry are helping filmmakers bring their visions to life more affordably, without compromising on quality.
If LA continues to decline, London could very well become the new Hollywood. The numbers and incentives certainly suggest it's on the right track.
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Original Article From Hollywood Report here: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/los-angeles-film-tv-production-sees-historically-low-production-1236033411/
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