FilmLA updated its regional survey of sound stage occupancy and certified studio-based production. The data covers the first half of 2023 and the period leading up to the WGA/SAG-AFTRA work actions. According to the report, uncertainty about the outcome of industry contract talks saw occupancy levels drop substantially, dipping to as low as 74% by the second quarter. This is the lowest reported occupancy level observed by FilmLA since formal study of this sector began in 2016. On-location production, separately tracked by FilmLA, also slipped substantially at this time.
Approximately, 706 projects filmed on stages during the study period, and among them the overall proportions of feature film, television, and commercial projects did not change much from prior periods.
Non-film use of stage properties increased in early 2023, to about 17% of total activity. Resilient in the face of reduced filmmaker demand, stage operators welcomed novel non-film uses of unused stage properties in early 2023 and into the latter half of the year. Study participants reported that use of sound stages and backlots was something event producers, marketing agencies and other parties often pursue, but in recent years many of these inquiries had to be turned away, due to lack of space.
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