FilmLA scripted content case study finds production slump continues

Film and television production in Los Angeles is experiencing a continued downward slump, according to FilmLA's latest scripted content study.

The study analyses US-produced, first-run, English-language projects released in 2024.

It found that Los Angeles hosted only 18.3% of all scripted projects released in 2024, a slight dip from 18.5% in 2023. This continues a downward trend from the 21.9% share recorded in 2022.

The total number of scripted projects released in 2024 dropped by 13.4% year-on-year to 857 projects. The number of Los Angeles-made projects declined by 14.2% compared to the previous year, from 183 to 157 titles.

Scripted series releases filmed in Los Angeles fell by 26.7% (from 105 to 77 projects), including drops in cable series, down 57.7% (from 26 to 11 projects), and streaming series, down 24.5% (from 49 to 37 projects).

However, Los Angeles saw a comparative increase in locally-made feature films. Theatrical release movies filmed in the area rose by 19.0% (from 21 to 25 projects), and streaming movies increased by 70.6% (from 17 to 29 projects). TV movies filmed locally decreased by 35.0% (from 40 to 26 projects).

The report adds that the enhanced California Film & Television Tax Credit Program, which included an increase in the annual program budget to $750 million will aid in increasing production in the region.