Innovation Spotlight: FilmLA Monitors

You’re racing to capture the final shot of the day. Time is tight, the light is fading, and the crew is in motion.

Then a neighbor approaches, upset about a blocked driveway.

Who steps in to handle it so you can stay focused?

Your FilmLA Monitor!

Since 1997, FilmLA Monitors have supported high-impact, on-location film shoots, serving both filmmakers and the community while proving themselves invaluable to productions.

“Our most dedicated Monitors have built relationships with industry professionals and within communities, setting a standard for the next generation of filmmakers and industry professionals,” says Michael Lifshey, one of the first FilmLA Monitors.

Monitors help resolve common on-set challenges like parking issues, noise concerns, equipment placement, and access needs for businesses and residents. They facilitate discussions when there are last-minute changes on site as a liaison between FilmLA permit coordinators and final permit approvers.

Easy to spot in their FilmLA uniforms, these friendly neighborhood production “whisperers” arrive early and work in real-time to keep filming on track. With deep local insight and keen diplomatic skills, their goal is to minimize disruption so production proceeds smoothly and neighborhoods continue to welcome production with a film-friendly outlook.  Thanks to Monitor oversight, iconic neighborhoods and landmarks can continue to serve as sustainable filming locations.

FilmLA’s Monitoring team currently includes 11 professionals, many with years of on-location production experience. Like many of FilmLA’s staff, the Monitor team are also industry creatives, with experience in lighting, acting, directing, editing, writing, and producing, bringing their insight and enthusiasm to every assignment.

With a FilmLA Monitor on set, you have more than a film permit: you have on-site production support that understands when to step in and when to step back.