B.C. Delegation Heads to L.A. to Boost Film Industry Ties Ahead of Pilot Season

November 20, 2024
B.C. Delegation Heads to L.A. to Boost Film Industry Ties Ahead of Pilot Season
  • A delegation from the British Columbia government is currently in Los Angeles to promote the province as a premier location for film and television production.

  • The delegation, organized by Screen BC, includes key figures such as Arts and Tourism Minister Spencer Chandra Herbert, Finance Minister Brenda Bailey, and Parliamentary Secretary for Arts and Film Nina Krieger.

  • This visit is strategically timed to precede Hollywood's pilot season, which runs from January to April, providing essential information to studio decision-makers for their production planning.

  • The delegation aims to highlight the advantages of filming in B.C., particularly two tax credits that saved filmmakers approximately $909 million in the 2023-24 fiscal year.

  • Currently, British Columbia offers a 28% production services credit to both domestic and foreign film and TV producers, with plans to increase this to 36% as promised by Premier David Eby.

  • The visit aims to build strong international relationships to further support and enhance British Columbia's film and television industry.

  • The film industry in B.C. supports approximately 47,500 jobs and contributed $3.3 billion to the province's GDP in 2022, showcasing its significance to the local economy.

  • Approximately 80% of production activity in B.C. is for foreign service work, underscoring the importance of international relationships for the province's film industry.

  • Minister Herbert emphasized the importance of attracting major productions to provide local talent with well-paying job opportunities, reinforcing the economic benefits of the film industry.

  • Eby also noted the competitive landscape, particularly as California Governor Gavin Newsom proposed doubling California's film tax credit program.

  • British Columbia has become a popular filming location for U.S. productions, with notable projects including the second season of 'The Last of Us' and the first season of 'Shōgun'.

  • Premier Eby reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the film industry following his re-election, emphasizing the need to keep B.C. competitive against U.S. states.

Summary based on 8 sources


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