New York City’s newly appointed entertainment chief has taken stock of a creative industry still struggling to rebound from years of decline, despite broader signs of economic recovery. With film and television production lingering below pre-pandemic levels, officials are now assessing how to revitalize a sector that remains a cornerstone of the city’s cultural and economic identity. The challenge comes as Hollywood and media companies weigh major investments in local infrastructure against shifting production trends favoring other major hubs. Experts and industry leaders are closely watching whether recent policy shifts will be enough to lure back studios and crews after years of setbacks.
When Rafael Espinal took office in February as New York City's entertainment chief, he looked around and saw a city that was thriving but had yet to recover from a yearslong slump in film and TV ...