Fears of an impending SAG strike was the big reasons why the number of Hollywood studio features that shot in Chicago in 2008 dropped precipitously from the strong year before.
The still-unresolved strike situation “virtually eliminated studio feature production after July 1 when the SAG contract expired,” said Chicago Film Office director Rich Moskal.
For the first five months of 2008, features were practically at a standstill, while the Illinois legislature delayed passing the 20% tax incentive until March. Gov. Blagojevich further held up any possible activity by waiting nearly two months for a bill signing photo op.
The Illinois Film Office said official film revenue and employment figures will be available in a few weeks.
Film income in 2007 was $125 million, for the second times since 1999. Added to this was $30 million from commercials. The total for 2008, however, might be one of the lowest since the $60 million reported in 2003.
