The Rise and Fall of Black Creativity in Atlanta’s Film Industry
Atlanta, often labeled the new capital of Black Hollywood, has been a vital hub for Black creatives in the film and television industry since the 1970s. With the launch of the Georgia Film Office under then-Governor Jimmy Carter, the state laid the groundwork for a flourishing production ecosystem. Over the last two decades, the emergence of Tyler Perry Studios and attractive film tax incentives have attracted major productions, providing a rich tapestry of opportunities for Black talent both in front of and behind the camera.
The Flourishing Creative Scene
The state has seen a vibrant array of projects over the years—from Selma to The Hunger Games, and popular television series like The Walking Dead, Atlanta, and Lovecraft Country. These productions have created thousands of jobs and made it possible for Black creatives to break into an industry that has historically marginalized them. The result? A newfound hope and a sense of belonging in the film and TV landscape.
A Sudden Downturn
However, since the start of 2023, this creative boom has turned bleak. Contributing factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and labor strikes have drastically reduced job opportunities. Disney’s Marvel Studios announced its move to an overseas location, citing lower production costs as a reason, marking a significant loss for Georgia’s already struggling film industry.
In stark contrast to previous years, Georgia hosted only 273 productions between July 2023 and June 2024, a significant drop from previous years, with the number of film permits issued decreasing by 50%. This downturn has led to a rapid decline in state revenue from film and television production, affecting many lives and careers.
Personal Stories of Decline
The impact of this downturn is poignantly embodied in the experiences of individuals like Terrance Shelton, an assistant prop master. After being in the industry for 15 years, Shelton saw his work evaporate almost entirely by early 2024. Once earning a six-figure salary working on successful series and films, he now finds himself earning a fraction of that, with some jobs offering as little as $350 for a 12-hour day.
“After the strikes, we started noticing the negotiations got a lot harder…the wage got a lot less,” Shelton commented, exemplifying the shift in job dynamics where previously agreed-upon terms are being replaced with flat rates, particularly for nonunion projects.
Other creatives have similarly struggled to secure work. Friends of Shelton have resorted to selling their possessions to make ends meet. Many professionals are seeking piecemeal work, cobbling together small gigs just to survive.
Community Support and Innovation
Organizations like the Trilith Foundation are stepping in to help ease the burden. Based at Trilith Studios, the foundation provides a range of services, including mental health support and employment opportunities for artists caught in the downturn. Tia Miller, the director of marketing and communications for the foundation, emphasizes the importance of mental health and community support in an industry often shrouded in silence regarding emotional struggles.
“We’re able to give them a job until they’re able to get to their next gig…keeping them employed,” Miller noted, presenting a beacon of hope amidst the uncertainty.
Transitioning to New Opportunities
Despite the challenges, some creatives are finding new pathways. Ebony Blanding, an Atlanta native, found herself accepting a more stable 9-to-5 job at a nonprofit after uncertainty in the production landscape led to a sharp decline in gigs. She expressed the urgency of taking any opportunity presented, reflecting the fear that pervades the industry today.
Rebecca Gordon, a co-founder of the TSA Network, conveys the harsh reality of budget cuts across the board. “A lot of the labels and the networks don’t have the budgets that they used to have,” she shared, suggesting that the industry must continuously adapt in response to changing market conditions.
Lifting Each Other Up
Community-based initiatives are proving crucial during these challenging times. Mid-sized studios and creatives are collaborating more than ever. Gordon’s partnership with local prop houses has been a lifeline for her production company.
The sentiment is echoed by Frank Patterson, CEO of Trilith Studios, who remains optimistic about the future. He believes that moments of downturn often foster innovation, paving the way for new voices and ideas to flourish. The emergence of young creatives who disrupt the status quo is indeed a source of excitement for Patterson.
The Ongoing Resilience of Black Creatives
Despite the contractions in the industry, the spirit of Black creatives in Atlanta remains undeterred. Autumn Bailey-Ford, the founder of Autumn Bailey Entertainment, believes in the strength of Black voices and their resilience, likening the current moment to an evolution rather than a retreat.
Her work on upcoming projects signals that the wave of creativity is far from over. Studios, including Tyler Perry Studios, are also adjusting to changing conditions while maintaining their commitment to telling diverse stories.
In conclusion, while the landscape of Atlanta’s film industry is undoubtedly facing challenges, the tenacity and adaptability of Black creatives provide a powerful narrative of resilience. Despite today’s hurdles, the potential for a rich tapestry of narratives and voices continues to present an inspiring horizon.