The film and production industry, like many others, faced significant challenges and disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. From production delays to box office losses, the impact was far-reaching and continues to rear its head today. Even now, years after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, residual challenges that stressed studios are contributing to the actors’ strike backed by the Writers Guild of America.
As the Northern Hemisphere approaches colder months, it is paramount to prepare for upcoming seasonal surges by reflecting on the industry’s pandemic response, examine the statistics that resonated, and make predictions for how COVID-19, along with other respiratory illnesses like RSV and the flu, will continue to impact the film industry.
We’ll also explore the measures that can be taken to mitigate film production delays and ensure the industry can prepare for on-set outbreaks and recover swiftly. In this article, we’ll delve into the recent demands from actors and writers for better pay and enhanced workplace protections, particularly relevant considering the anticipated seasonal surges of COVID-19, RSV, and the flu.
Recap on the Film Industry’s Response 2019-2021:
The film industry experienced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic. According to John Lindley, President of the International Cinematographers Guild’s board, “The COVID-19 pandemic created an unparalleled disruption in the film industry, impacting both production and exhibition.” The scale of this disruption became evident when statistics revealed the global loss in box office revenue stood at approximately $7 billion by mid-March of 2021.
“The COVID-19 pandemic created an unparalleled disruption in the film industry, impacting both production and exhibition.” – John Lindley, President of the International Cinematographers Guild’s board.
In Canada, the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA) estimated that a shutdown lasting until the end of June could result in a loss of CAD $2.5 billion (USD $1.8 billion) and impact more than 172,000 jobs. Reynolds Mastin, President and CEO of CMPA, expressed concern, stating, “COVID-19 has brought media production in Canada to a screeching halt. These numbers should serve as a wake-up call for what’s at stake, and motivate us all to work together to ensure the industry can get back on its feet as quickly as possible once this crisis ends.”
Though the ways in which production companies responded to the crisis varied, 10 common trends we observed from clients within the film industry include:
- Delayed Film Releases: Many highly anticipated films were postponed to avoid theatrical releases during the peak of the pandemic, leading to a backlog of releases in subsequent years.
- Production Shutdowns: Film and television productions worldwide were halted to prevent the spread of the virus among cast and crew.
- Shift to Remote Work: Post-production and administrative tasks transitioned to remote setups to minimize in-person contact.
- Adoption of Virtual Production Techniques: Filmmakers explored virtual production technology to create scenes and environments without large physical gatherings.
- Streaming Service Prominence: With theaters closed, streaming services experienced a surge in popularity, leading to exclusive digital releases.
- Safety Protocols On-Set: The industry implemented strict safety measures, including regular testing, mask mandates, and social distancing during shoots.
- Use of Quarantine Bubbles: Some productions adopted the use of “bubble” setups, where cast and crew isolated together to minimize the risk of infection.
- Shortened Filming Schedules: To reduce the time spent on set, filmmakers worked on tighter shooting schedules and streamlined production processes.
- Drive-in Theaters Revival: The pandemic led to a resurgence of drive-in movie theaters as a safer alternative to traditional indoor theaters.
- Virtual Film Festivals: Film festivals shifted to online platforms, allowing filmmakers to showcase their work to a global audience remotely.
The film and production industry exhibited remarkable resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic between 2019 and 2021, adapting to unprecedented challenges through delayed releases, remote work, innovative virtual production techniques, and stringent safety protocols.
As streaming services gained prominence and drive-in theaters experienced a revival, the industry navigated uncharted waters, demonstrating its ability to evolve and find creative solutions in the face of adversity.
Predictions for How RSV, Flu, and COVID-19 Will Impact Film:
As we navigate upcoming seasonal surges, it is important to consider how respiratory illnesses like RSV, the flu, and COVID-19 will continue to impact the film industry.
Product Shrink:
One area where we can anticipate an impact is product shrink. Between November and February, the limited availability of products may hamper film production due to increased demand and reduced supply caused by higher incidences of respiratory illnesses.
Testing Crunch During the Season:
Another challenge that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic was the testing crunch. It is crucial to learn from this experience to better handle future surges. Film productions rely on regular testing to ensure the safety of cast and crew. However, testing capacity can become strained during peak seasons. The demand for tests during the pandemic overwhelmed testing centers and delayed production. Ensuring adequate testing capacity and efficient systems should be a priority to avoid such delays in the future.
It is crucial for production companies to plan ahead for inevitable seasonal surges, and that includes aligning procurement of testing kits and personal protective equipment to surges.
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Film Production Delays and Strategies to Avoid Them:
Film production delays can have a cascading effect, impacting multiple aspects of a project. To mitigate delays during seasonal surges, proactive planning is essential.
Understanding usage needs based on crew, talent, rehearsals, travel, and other factors in advance can help allocate resources effectively. By having a comprehensive plan in place, potential delays can be minimized.
Additionally, avoiding overseas vendors for essential supplies, such as antigen tests, can help prevent logistical challenges. Antigen tests require specific storage temperatures, and when they are transported by sea or air or stored outside of controlled warehouses, their effectiveness can be compromised. Utilizing local vendors with proper storage facilities ensures the integrity of the tests.
Moreover, maintaining a clear chain of custody for all film production supplies is vital. Tracking where products have been before they reach the set ensures that they have been handled and stored properly, reducing the risk of contamination or compromised quality.
Actors and Writers Demands:
Amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, actors and writers in the film industry have raised their voices, seeking better pay and improved workplace protections.
These demands include enhanced health precautions that are particularly relevant during anticipated seasonal surges of COVID-19, RSV, and the flu. The pandemic’s impact on the industry, with moviegoers slow to return to cinemas and viewers shifting from traditional cable and network television to streaming platforms, has led to plummeting share prices and shrinking profits for many studios.
Addressing the demands of actors and writers is crucial for maintaining a sustainable and equitable industry.
Ensuring fair compensation and implementing comprehensive workplace protections will not only contribute to the well-being and safety of cast and crew but also foster a collaborative and thriving creative environment.
By prioritizing health precautions and providing necessary resources during seasonal surges of respiratory illnesses, the film industry can adapt and continue to produce high-quality content.
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Conclusion
The film industry faced immense challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in significant losses in box office revenue and job impacts. As we approach the upcoming seasonal surges, the industry must remain vigilant and prepared.
By learning from the past and taking proactive measures, such as planning usage needs, avoiding overseas vendors for critical supplies, and ensuring a secure chain of custody, the film industry can minimize production delays and thrive in the face of future challenges. By working together, the industry can recover swiftly and continue to provide audiences with the captivating storytelling experiences they crave.