The Continued Rise of Filming Outside of Los Angeles
Posted on: Jul 25, 2024
Photo Credit: 4kclips // ShutterstockHollywood is on the move, trading filming in Los Angeles for different states and countries more each year. In recent years an increasing number of movies and TV shows are opting to set their scenes far from the streets of Los Angeles and the traditional glamour of Hollywood-based sets. Small cities and towns across the globe have emerged as unexpected, yet effective backdrops, offering filmmakers fresh perspectives, authentic locales and a unique charm that builds storytelling (not to mention film tax incentives).
This diversifies the on-screen narratives we experience and also highlights the rich cultural tapestry woven into the fabric of lesser-known communities.
Why Film Outside of Los Angeles?
The cost-effective alternative to the high expenses associated with filming in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles draws in more opportunities, especially for up-and-coming filmmakers. Productions can maximize their budgets, allowing for greater creative freedom and higher production values. Small cities also offer a selection of natural picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and local talent that lend authenticity and depth to storytelling that an artificial set can’t always provide.
Filmmakers are increasingly drawn to these cities for the opportunity to capture a different cultural standpoint, tapping into communities and narratives that resonate with audiences seeking authentic perspectives. One example is Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things, which was shot in suburban Atlanta and New Mexico to replicate the small town 80s feel of fictional Hawkins, Indiana without the Los Angeles suburbs filming fees.
Looking Ahead
Entertainment Weekly shared a list of popular filming locations outside of LA. Some popular filming locations include Canadian cities Toronto (The Boys) and Ontario (Schitt’s Creek), and New Jersey (Severance). The use of places outside of major cities such as New York or urban parts of Canada provides a variety of incentives, including tax-based motives. To receive tax breaks in California (which has a $25 million project cap), a production must film at least 75% of its work there and must be a feature project made with a studio.
However, in New Jersey, there is no project cap or studio requirement. The state is just one of the 38 that offers tax incentives for filmmakers, and its more lenient regulations motivate production there. This decentralization of filmmaking supports local communities and promotes a more diverse and authentic production.
While filming in different locations is nothing new, it is becoming increasingly popular. As more productions migrate to various states and cities, local markets can be tapped for staff gigs, granting more opportunity to those outside of Los Angeles.
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