FROM FALLOUT TO FIGHTBACK: CALIFORNIA’S BIG PUSH TO WIN BACK FILM & TV
From Fallout to Fightback: California’s Big Push to Win Back Film & TV
21st of July, 2025.
From Fallout to Fightback: California’s Big Push to Win Back Film & TV
Key Takeaways:
In response to industry flight and falling behind other production hubs, California has launched a $750M expansion of its Film & TV Tax Credit Program, including first-ever refundable tax credits.
Silverstein Locations stands ready to support location managers, production companies and new property owners as demand for fresh California-based locations rises.
Hamilton Heights, a cliffside film location in Malibu.
Last Week: The Industry Looked Elsewhere
This Week: California Fights Back
In our last post, we explored the growing number of productions leaving Los Angeles for more financially competitive regions. As states like Georgia and New Jersey surged ahead, California faced a hard truth: it was losing its edge.
But the state hasn’t taken this lying down. This month marks a significant turning point, as Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled the biggest overhaul yet of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program—an aggressive $750 million push aimed squarely at reversing the outflow of work.
With refundable tax credits now on offer (a first for California), the message is clear: California wants its productions back—and it’s putting serious money behind that goal.
A Real Investment in the Industry’s Future
Dubbed “Program 4.0,” this new version of the incentive scheme is more than a budget increase. It’s a strategic move to re-anchor productions here at home by directly addressing the cost gap that has driven shows and films elsewhere.
And it’s already working. Sixteen major TV productions have committed to filming in California under the updated scheme—including NCIS: Origins, Paradise, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith. Together, these projects are expected to generate over $1.1 billion in spending and nearly 6,700 jobs.
This is not a declaration of victory—it’s the first real step toward recovery. And for those of us working on the ground—location scouts, producers, owners—it’s go-time.
Kingsley Living, a family home film location in LA
Silverstein Locations: Supporting the Rebuild
At Silverstein Locations, we’re ready to help rebuild California’s production pipeline—starting with the spaces every story needs: locations.
For location managers and scouts, we offer:
A wide range of cinematic, shoot-ready spaces
Fast responses and owner-friendly logistics
Expertise in permits, compliance and community impact
For production companies, we're not just a database—we’re a production-aware partner. Whether you’re scouting on short notice or need bespoke site options for high-security shoots, we move with the urgency and care your schedule demands.
And for property owners, the time to list is now. Demand for authentic, affordable and visually distinct California properties is growing fast—and listing with us puts your space directly in front of vetted productions backed by serious financial incentives.
West Coast Bungalow, a 90s inspired film location in LA
The Takeaway: This Isn’t a Comeback—It’s a Recovery Plan
“This program isn’t just about keeping cameras rolling,” said California Film Commission Director Colleen Bell. “It’s about sustaining careers, building opportunity and ensuring the economic and cultural benefits of filmmaking stay in the Golden State.”
We couldn’t agree more.
At Silverstein Locations, we see the tax credit expansion as more than just a policy shift—it’s a signal to the industry that California is ready to support production again. And we’re here to make sure the right locations are ready, accessible and supported at every stage of the process.
Urban Concrete, a striking brutalist film location in LA.
For Location Managers & Scouts:
Need fresh options in California? Let us build a custom location package based on your brief.
For Property Owners:
Own a unique space? List it now and start earning from the industry’s recovery.
For Producers & Line Managers:
From script to screen, we help connect the right properties to the right productions—fast.
