What Is 22nd California On Location Awards

Overview

The 22nd California On Location Awards, held in 2023, spotlighted outstanding achievements in film and television productions that utilized California's diverse locations for authentic on-set filming. This annual event celebrates projects that not only deliver high-quality entertainment but also contribute significantly to the state's economy through job creation and local spending.

Organized by the California Film Commission in partnership with FilmLA, the awards recognize productions that exemplify best practices in sustainable filming, community engagement, and regional economic impact. The 2023 ceremony highlighted a record number of independent films and streaming series that chose California over out-of-state competitors, thanks to the state's enhanced tax credit program.

• 42 productions were honored across film, television, and documentary categories, reflecting a resurgence in in-state filming post-pandemic.
• The event took place on March 15, 2023, at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles, drawing over 800 industry professionals.
• 'Top Gun: Maverick' received the Best Feature Film Location award for its extensive use of Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego.
• California's Film & TV Tax Credit Program allocated $330 million in 2022–2023, helping retain productions like 'The Bear' and 'Dahmer'.
• Winning projects generated over 12,500 job-years and contributed more than $1.2 billion to local economies, from catering to construction.

How It Works

The California On Location Awards evaluate productions based on authenticity of location use, economic contribution, and community collaboration. Each entry undergoes review by a panel of 25 industry experts, including location managers, city planners, and environmental consultants.

• Eligibility Criteria: Productions must have filmed at least 75% of principal photography in California between January 1 and December 31, 2022. Independent films with budgets under $20 million qualify for special consideration.
• Judging Panel: A 25-member board reviews submissions, including representatives from the California Film Commission, IATSE Local 80, and the League of California Cities.
• Economic Impact Verification: Applicants must submit audited reports showing local spending in lodging, labor, and materials, with a minimum of $500,000 spent per project.
• Sustainability Score: Each production is scored on eco-practices, such as zero-waste sets and EV fleet usage, accounting for 20% of the total evaluation.
• Community Engagement: Projects must demonstrate outreach efforts, such as hiring local extras or hosting educational workshops, earning up to 15 bonus points.
• Award Categories: There are 12 competitive categories, including Best Use of Rural Location, Urban Production, and Documentary Filming, with three finalists per category.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares key metrics from the 22nd awards to the previous two ceremonies, highlighting growth in participation and economic influence.

Data shows a steady upward trend in both production volume and economic contribution, driven by competitive tax incentives and California's diverse filming landscapes. The rise in streaming content reflects shifting industry patterns, with platforms like Netflix and Apple investing heavily in California-based series to meet award eligibility requirements.

Why It Matters

Beyond recognition, the California On Location Awards play a strategic role in promoting sustainable production and regional development. By spotlighting successful collaborations between filmmakers and municipalities, the event encourages other states to adopt similar incentive models.

• Job creation in rural areas has increased by 18% since 2020, thanks to productions filming in locations like Bakersfield and Eureka.
• The awards promote environmental responsibility, with 68% of 2023 nominees using electric generators or carbon offset programs.
• Winning projects often see a 30% increase in tourism to featured locations, such as Big Sur and Joshua Tree.
• California’s tax credit program has a return on investment of $1.87 for every dollar spent, according to a 2022 Milken Institute study.
• The event strengthens ties between filmmakers and local governments, reducing permitting delays by up to 40% for repeat productions.
• Recognition enhances a production’s visibility, with 54% of past winners receiving additional awards or distribution deals.

As streaming services expand and production demands evolve, the California On Location Awards remain a vital platform for showcasing how film can drive economic and cultural growth across the state.