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Los Angeles
FilmLA Contract Renewed Amid Calls for Reform
The LA Board of Public Works unanimously renewed FilmLA’s contract for five years, calling for greater transparency, stakeholder input, and reforms by 2026. While FilmLA pledged to collaborate, critics say the renewal lacked proper review, underscoring persistent concerns over permitting delays.
International
Asia-Pacific’s Screen Industry Faces Digital Shakeup
As revenue growth slows, the Asia-Pacific screen industry is shifting from traditional TV to premium VOD, social video, and creator-led content. By 2030, it’s projected to hit $175B, fueled by smartphones, connected TVs, and the rise of local platforms and creators.
Production Incentives
Texas Boosts Film Incentives to $300M
Texas has committed $300 million every two years for the next decade to its film incentive program, aiming to rival states like Georgia and New Mexico and keep Texas-set productions shooting at home.
Unions
WGA East Secures First Contract With Story Syndicate
After nearly two years of talks, WGA East has ratified its first contract with Story Syndicate, winning minimum pay, healthcare, and rest protections for its 30-member unit—a milestone for unionizing nonfiction production.
Musicals
Library of Congress Acquires Sondheim Archive
The Library of Congress has acquired Stephen Sondheim’s archive—about 5,000 items including manuscripts, lyric drafts, and rare personal materials from classics like Company, Sweeney Todd, and Into the Woods.
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