Governor Newsom announces tax credit awards for new job-creating films shooting in California and generating $1.4 billion for the state’s economy

As seen on film.ca.gov

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that 52 film projects were selected for the latest round of tax credits under California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. These projects, representing both studio-backed and independent productions, are projected to inject over $1.4 billion into the state’s economy and keep thousands of good-paying jobs in California. These projects represent $1 billion in qualified in-state spending and are inclusive of $629 million in qualified wages.

“The film and television industry is the cornerstone of California’s creative economy – revitalizing the job opportunities, business growth and economic prosperity for families. These investments reaffirm that California isn’t just where stories are told, it’s where the future of storytelling is built.” Governor Gavin Newsom

Collectively, the productions will employ an estimated 8,900 cast & crew and 46,400 background performers (measured in days worked) over the course of 1,664 filming days statewide. This round also saw applications nearly double compared to the last film round under Program 3.0 – the previous iteration of the program before it was expanded earlier this year.

Record-breaking production activity

This surge of projects reinforces California’s continued leadership as the global hub of entertainment production. The expanded Film & Television Tax Credit Program is driving unparalleled economic activity within the Los Angeles filming zone and regions beyond.

The announced projects include 511 filming days outside of the Los Angeles area – known as “out-of-zone filming days – representing the highest total in a single application round in program history and ensuring that economic benefits reach communities across the state. Thirty eight projects are scheduled to film in counties throughout California — Alameda, Contra Costa, Imperial, Inyo, Marin, Montecito, San Bernardino, San Diego, Santa Clara — generating local employment opportunities, supporting small businesses, and strengthening communities across the Golden State.

Out-of-zone filming benefits the state’s regional economies and businesses, including retail, grocers, hardware stores, and hotels. Productions also spend on local services such as construction, catering, florists and local governments’ police and fire departments, as well as permitting fees.

“This round of awards demonstrates the outstanding scope of our program. We are welcoming projects from major franchises to independent films led by visionary artists,” said Colleen Bell, Director California Film Commission. “There’s real momentum building. With 52 new projects, we’re seeing storytelling thrive once again, creating thousands of jobs and supporting local businesses in communities across the state. California’s film industry is not just rebounding, it’s redefining what’s possible.”