Disclaimer: I’m no industry expert, whether it’s location scouting, film economics, or filmmaking itself. However, I’ve done some pondering about why is my phone not ringing. Here are my best guesses. For the truly enlightend out there, please feel free to share your insights in the comments.
Much like everyone else, I had anticipated my phone to be buzzing non-stop from January 2nd onwards. But alas, it remains eerily silent. So, let’s delve into some working theories after countless contemplations and phone calls:
- Scripts in Limbo: One possibility is that scripts aren’t quite ready yet. While it’s possible to scout locations without a script, most folks prefer having one in hand before proceeding.
- Ill-Timed Strike Resolution: The conclusion of the Writers and Actors strike in November couldn’t have come at a worse time. Typically, this period signals the industry’s year-end wrap-up, compounding delays.
- Cautious Studios: Studios might be holding back, waiting for the dust to settle after the strike. Commencing a film and then having to put it on hold isn’t easy on the budget.
- Inflation Impact: The persistently high inflation rates have caused costs to soar, increasing the risk for potential investors. Consequently, progress is proceeding cautiously across the board.
- Content Overload: We’re currently swimming in a sea of unwatched content. Even the most diligent among us have struggled to keep up.
- Belt-Tightening on Streaming Platforms: Across the board, streaming platforms have reduced their content budgets for 2024, further constraining opportunities.
- Tax Year Timing: Producers could be biding their time until the new tax year for potential incentives and tax breaks.
- Chancellors Budget: Producers may also be waiting for the next see-saw at the latest budget.
- Delayed Incentive Approvals: We’ve all experienced the frustration of delayed incentive approvals in the past, which could be exacerbating the delayed start.
- British Independent Film: The sustainability of the British Independent films has been in danger for some time. While the American production work has been gone, British Independent film production has not been healthy enough to keep us working. This is rather good for further reading here: https://bit.ly/3SDfQkG
Is it one singular reason? Certainly not. More likely, the reason why is my phone not ringing, is a combination of these factors that’s keeping my phone—and maybe yours—uncharacteristically quiet.
But here are a few glimmers of hope to hold onto:
- Veterans Thriving: Seasoned Supervising Location Managers and Location Scouts with 10-20 years of experience and robust networks are finding work. Their cups will soon run over, and hopefully, the tide will lift all boats.
- Grumblings About Studio Space: The annual complaint about difficulties in successfully location scouting for studio set build space has begun. If pencils are being confirmed, the work is coming.
In the meantime, it’s prudent to keep overheads low, trim expenses where possible, and stay resilient. In just six months, you might find yourself yearning for a holiday after being run ragged.