Ben Affleck Slams Hollywood’s Flight from Los Angeles: "California Took the Industry for Granted"
In a recent interview with the Associated Press, actor Ben Affleck expressed his concerns about the decline of film and television production in Los Angeles, citing the state’s lack of competitive tax incentives as a major factor. The Daily Mail reports that Affleck, 52, believes California’s complacency has led to a significant exodus of productions to other states and countries.
According to Affleck, the issue lies in the fact that other states and countries offer more attractive tax incentives, making it more cost-effective for productions to film elsewhere. "I think part of the problem with California is they came to take this industry for granted a little bit," he said. "The percentage you get back in terms of actual budget doesn’t compete with places like England, which is why you see a lot of these big, huge movies shoot in the U.K." The Batman star noted that states like Georgia, New Mexico, Louisiana, Texas, Massachusetts, and New Jersey have implemented enticing incentive programs, driving production to these locations.
In an effort to combat the trend, California Governor Gavin Newsom has increased the cap on tax incentives to keep filming in the state. However, Affleck remains skeptical, stating that this alone will not be enough to reverse the trend. "It’s really the technicians and the crew that make or break your movie," he emphasised. "You need the best people, you need good people. I, as a director, know that to be true. And so if people move away, you know, that really hurts the industry."
The issue has sparked a movement, dubbed Stay in L.A., aimed at keeping production in its historic home. Actor Rob Lowe recently echoed Affleck’s sentiments, commenting on the cost of producing a show in Los Angeles versus Ireland, where his game show The Floor films. "It’s cheaper to bring one hundred American people to Ireland than to walk across the lot at Fox, past the sound stages, and do it there," Lowe said.
Georgia and New Mexico have emerged as particularly attractive locations, with no annual cap on their incentives programs. This has led to a significant brain drain of skilled technicians and crew members, who are forced to relocate to follow the work. Affleck, who has filmed his latest two movies, The Accountant and Animal, in and around L.A., is not alone in his concerns.
The trend has significant implications for the film and television industry, with many productions opting for more cost-effective locations. As the industry continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether California can adapt and regain its position as a hub for film and television production.
In a separate interview with GQ, Affleck revealed that wearing the iconic Batman suit was a grueling experience, citing the extreme heat and discomfort. "I hated the batsuits. The batsuits are horrendous to wear," he said. "They’re incredibly hot, for one thing. They don’t breathe. They’re made to look the way they want ‘em to look, and there’s no thought put into the human being."
The Daily Mail has reported on the challenges faced by the film and television industry, with Affleck’s comments highlighting the need for a more competitive and supportive environment for productions. As the industry continues to navigate these changes, Affleck’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of adapting to the evolving landscape.
Ben Affleck is not the only one speaking out about the challenges of filming in Los Angeles. Other industry professionals have also weighed in on the issue, citing the high costs and lack of incentives as major deterrents.
The Stay in L.A. movement aims to address these concerns and find solutions to keep production in Los Angeles. However, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will be enough to reverse the trend and bring production back to the city.
Only time will tell if California can regain its position as a hub for film and television production. One thing is certain, however: the industry is evolving, and it will require a concerted effort from lawmakers, industry professionals, and stakeholders to ensure that Los Angeles remains a major player in the world of film and television production.
The Daily Mail will continue to provide updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.
