Film and television production in Los Angeles experienced a modest increase in activity during the final quarter of 2025. Filming days totaled 4,625, representing a 5.1% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Despite this uptick, the overall number of shoot days for 2025 reached 19,694, which marks a significant decline of 16.1% from the 23,480 shoot days recorded in 2024.
The recovery of the production industry in Los Angeles has been slow, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Hollywood writers and actors strikes in 2023. These events have had lasting effects on the region’s film and television landscape, making it challenging for production numbers to rebound fully.
Competition from Other States
In addition to the impacts of the pandemic and labor disputes, the film industry in California faces increasing competition from other states. Many of these locations offer attractive film tax credits and incentives that can draw productions away from California. To counter this trend, California Governor Gavin Newsom recently expanded the state’s Film and TV Tax Credit Program, aiming to attract productions back to the Golden State.
This expansion includes a range of incentives designed to make filming in California more appealing. As a result, it is anticipated that the industry will gradually recover as more productions take advantage of these benefits.
Future Prospects for Production
Looking ahead, Phil Sokoloski from Film L.A. noted that many projects approved under the newly expanded tax credit program are just beginning their production phases. He expressed optimism that the effects of these incentives will become more evident in 2026. Furthermore, Karen Bass, the Mayor of Los Angeles, has initiated directives aimed at streamlining the permitting and shooting processes within the city, which could further enhance the production climate.
As the industry continues to navigate these changes, there is hope that both the expanded tax incentives and improved operational efficiencies will foster a more vibrant environment for film and television production in Los Angeles in the coming years.
