Production of Fox Searchlight’s Battle of the Sexes Contributed Over $25 Million to the California Economy

September 21, 2017

WASHINGTON – Production on the Fox Searchlight film Battle of the Sexes was responsible for a major boost to California’s local economy, according to new data from the studio. The production spent over a month filming in California, generating more than $25 million in local economic activity.

Battle of the Sexes production employed over 3,000 local workers, who took home more than $9 million in wages. A significant portion of the production’s investment also supported a wide array of in-state vendors, including numerous small businesses, such as:

  • More than $5 million on local rentals and purchases for set decoration, production, and other supplies.
  • More than $350,000 on catering, bakery goods and other food items.
  • Nearly $300,000 on hardware and lumber supplies, and equipment.
  • More than $350,000 on transportation, including truck and car rentals.
  • More than $15,000 on lodging.

“I’ve witnessed the behind-the-scenes of productions in California for over twenty years and understand the incredible amount of work that goes into bringing stories to life. Countless creators are involved in the production process – to sum it up, productions equal jobs. From costume designers to caterers, set builders to dry cleaners, productions create and support jobs in the communities where they film,” said MPAA CEO Charles Rivkin. “California’s incentive program entices productions which in turn bring in revenue for local businesses, individuals, and families. Battle of the Sexes is a great example of a film that brought significant economic gain to the local area and will continue to do so after premiere night.”

Creative Rights Caucus Co-Chair Representative Judy Chu (CA-27) said, “The thousands of jobs created by Battle of the Sexes are another example of the immense economic benefit of the creative industries. Many of the residents of my district depend on productions like this for employment; and my district is not alone. Last year, creative industries contributed $1.2 trillion to our economy by providing good jobs at good wages throughout our country, including California. That is why I am proud to support the creative industries and their ability to support our communities.” 

Executive Director of the California Film Commission Amy Lemisch added, “We were thrilled that California was host to this iconic true story of Billie Jean King’s infamous tennis match against Bobby Riggs. Filmmakers and talent enjoy filming in California thanks to our plentiful skilled crews, production infrastructure, diverse locations and great weather. In turn, our local communities benefit from productions like Battle of the Sexes that employ our workers and utilize thousands of small support businesses.”

Catch Battle of the Sexes in theaters September 22.

About the MPAA
The Motion Picture Association of America, Inc. (MPAA) serves as the voice and advocate of the American motion picture, home video and television industries from its offices in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. Its members include: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures; Paramount Pictures Corporation; Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.; Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation; Universal City Studios LLC; and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

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For more information, contact:

MPAA Washington, D.C.
Chris Ortman
(202) 293-1966
Chris_Ortman@motionpictures.org