Last week, there was a front-page article in the Boston Globe about Emerson College's expansion of its Hollywood program.

That's good for Emerson, but the expansion of the program is based as much on fantasy than reality, and it comes at as time when film production activity, both from within and without the State is increasing.
It is true that Emerson's program has increased and improved over the last twenty years (I taught there at the beginning of the expansion) and a lot of Emerson alum have moved there. Many are happy (although they miss the New England seasons), but others find themselves at entry level, menial jobs that are abundant out there, but are not professionally fulfilling.

Hollywood hasn't changed much since Nathanial West wrote his devastating critique of Hollywood in DAY OF THE LOCUST. But then, in l939, Hollywood was at least centralized and working locally. Now, there is very little activity there. Last Thanksgiving, when I last visited, there was an op-ed piece by LA's mayor pleading with film people to stay. Hollywood has become increasingly decentralized, what with film production being done every place but in Hollywood.

Why go? Maybe to see for oneself, only to return in four or five years. But, although I think it might be a bit premature for Beanywood to announce the Boston has become the intersection between Beantown and Hollywood, the area offers promise. With at least four major Hollywood productions being shot in the state before the end of the year, and no fewer than a dozen local productions (what with the new tax incentives which now begin for local indie productions starting at $50,000). Beanywood and the group making "12" (see an earlier blog) are actually projects to promote filmmaking in Massachusetts. On top of that, there is Paul Sherman's book on the history of filmmaking in Massachusetts.And there is Nick Paleologos, the new head of the State Film Office, a man with perspective, experience and contacts, to oversee the Renaissance.

In short, just like thirty years ago, when it was great to be a filmgoer in Boston (what with the Orson Welles, Off the Wall and the Central Square) the end of the first decade of the 21st century will mark a period where it will be great to be a filmmaker in Boston.

So before you glassy-eyed Emerson grads head west, take a closer look at what's going on around you. No matter what, Hollywood has become largely decentralized, and Boston is on the way back.

For more of David Kleiler's Independent Thoughts head over to Local Sightings where you will find an abundant blog archive http://www.localsightings.com/thoughts.html