3 minute read
FLICS: The Future is Golden
BRING YOUR NEXT FILM, TELEVISION OR REALITY PRODUCTION TO THE GOLDEN STATE
Since Centaur Film Company moved from New Jersey to the modest citrus groves of Hollywood in 1911, the Golden State has become the headquarters for America’s premier film studios and production companies, as well as one the largest collection of creatives on Earth. The state receives an average of 315 sunny days, a diverse collection of locations (from vast coastlines to arid deserts) and a creative infrastructure formed from a century of innovation. While other American states have become hotbeds for productions in recent decades, California continues to host more projects than anywhere in North America and consistently attract talent through the dedicated work of the Film Liaisons in California Statewide (FLICS).
“The weather is ideal, the crew base remains the best in the country, and the state retains a very competitive tax credit program. Combine that with the pooled resources of FLICS members, I’d say filming in California is still the ideal choice for most productions.”
– Karen Nordstrand, Monterey Film Commission
This collection of nearly 60 film commissions and offices across California shares resources to assist productions with scouting, permits and local talent. This one-stop resource is essential for any film, TV or commercial producer across the Golden State, and FLICS members will work to assist your production across jurisdictions.
“Our strength as an organization is the ability to collaborate and refer several locations to stories that require multiple settings,” says Sabrina Jurisich,
FLICS Vice President and Regional Film Commissioner for Upstate California. “If you need redwood forests, skyscrapers and oceans, our individual members are happy to share resources so that you can save money and focus on the creative aspects of the project.”
Catalina Island Imperial County Monterey County
Boasting a rich Old Hollywood tradition and unforgettable Pacific scenery, Catalina Island and the city of Avalon are a beautiful backdrop for your next project. The Catalina Island Tourism Authority & Film Catalina are available to assist you in processing your permits, answering your questions and assisting you in finding the products and services you might require from local businesses.
The Imperial Valley draws you in with waves of sand dunes, rocky desert and mountain landscapes and the largest salt lake in the United States: the Salton Sea. With seven cities and eight unincorporated communities, Imperial County is home to a rich agricultural heritage, extensive renewable resources, outdoor recreational activities and the infamous Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge.
It’s been called the “Greatest Meeting of Land and Sea.” Monterey County’s beautiful, diverse locations have drawn filmmakers for decades. Dramatic coastal settings include Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur, Monterey, and there’s rural and agricultural looks in the Salinas Valley. From famous films to Big Little Lies the best locations are here.
Jim Luttjohan
LOVE CATALINA ISLAND TOURISM AUTHORITY
310-510-7643 jim@lovecatalina.com www.filmcatalina.com
Charla Teeters
IMPERIAL COUNTY FILM COMMISSION
760-337-4155 filmhere@sbcglobal.net www.filmimperialcounty.com
Karen Nordstrand
MONTEREY COUNTY FILM COMMISSION
831-646-0910 karen@filmmonterey.org www.filmmonterey.org
FLICS’ vast array of tools and resources will help you navigate all sorts of production issues, from work permits to on-set safety. Their team can help put you in touch with relevant government agencies, industry associations and union contacts. Their website also contains comprehensive production directories, entertainment job listings and useful charts for studio zones. Read more to learn about their members and how they can provide unforgettable locations for your next creative endeavor. DF
Placer County boasts stunning locations, including rich farmlands and industrial sites of the valley, rivers and forests of the foothills, and the sparkling blue lake and ski resorts of the mountains. We welcome all media productions to scout, film and enjoy our spectacular natural beauty year-round.
Find your next location in Upstate California! We are here to help with pre-scouting, permits, local referrals, at no cost to you ! Our region encompasses four counties with diverse options: valleys, mountaintops, small towns, waterfalls, caverns, rivers, historic, modern, state and national parks, and more! Contact us today!
The City of West Hollywood is here to support your production from scout to strike. Home to iconic locations such as the Sunset Strip and Pacific Design Center, West Hollywood also can double as Anywhere, USA with our many unique residential and commercial areas — all within 1.9 square miles.
Juli Johnston, Film Program Liaison
PLACER-LAKE
TAHOE FILM OFFICE
530-889-4091 jjohnston@placer.ca.gov www.placer.ca.gov
Sabrina Jurisich, Regional Film Commissioner UPSTATE
CALIFORNIA FILM COMMISSION
• 530-710-7784 sabrina@upstatecafilm.com www.UpstateCAFilm.com
Eddie
Robinson
OF WEST HOLLYWOOD FILM OFFICE
CITY
323-848-6489 wehofilm@weho.org www.weho.org/film