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Vancouver film workers take on side hustles amid Hollywood shutdown

Published

4 months ago

August 6, 2023

ticker NEWS

The recent strikes by Hollywood actors and writers have cast a shadow over Vancouver’s vibrant movie industry, compelling creative minds in the field to seek unconventional side hustles to navigate these challenging times.

Known as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver and the province of British Columbia stand as a major film production hub in North America, generating around $2.7 billion in revenue in 2022 and providing employment opportunities for camera operators, logistics coordinators, animators, chefs, and more.

However, with the strikes disrupting multiple productions, many film workers in Canada have resorted to seeking temporary alternative employment, such as taking up roles in restaurants, construction, landscaping, and retail. The adaptability of these professionals goes beyond these conventional avenues.

For example, Stacy Lundeen, a talented set dresser, and artist has typically supported his passion for painting through his film work. Recently employed on the CW Network’s superhero show “The Flash,” he now finds himself with no work and has turned back to his art practice.

In June, he opened a pop-up gallery called Slender, featuring visual art by family and friends. To make ends meet, Lundeen also cuts hair in his spare time while juggling his responsibilities as a father.

“Just do it”

Side projects are nothing new for film workers, according to stunt coordinator Thomas Potter, who advises having additional ventures on the side. During the strikes, he has devoted more time to his sandblasting company, AXA.

For Morris Bartlett, a set piece builder with Fiction Factory Props, the strike shutdown has been a “nightmare” for his team. To stay afloat, he now works on custom props for comic book convention performers and corporate clients. Although grateful for the opportunity, these side gigs yield only a fraction of his regular income.

While the film workers in Vancouver are making the most of their ingenuity and resilience through these side hustles, they are eagerly hoping for the return of film work to the city later this year.

The uncertainty of the situation has been stressful for many, and the film community eagerly anticipates the restoration of their beloved movie magic.

Money

RBA maintains 4.35% rates as mortgage applications surge

Published

13 hours ago

December 5, 2023

ticker NEWS

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to keep its official cash rate at 4.35%, citing concerns over the rapidly increasing number of mortgage applications.

This decision comes after several consecutive meetings where the RBA has refrained from adjusting interest rates.

The central bank’s decision to hold rates steady reflects their cautious approach to managing the current housing market boom. Mortgage applications have seen a significant surge in recent months, driven by record-low interest rates and increased demand for housing. While this has been a boon for the real estate industry, it has raised concerns about the potential for a housing bubble and financial stability.

Experts are divided on whether the RBA’s decision is the right course of action.

Some argue that maintaining low-interest rates is necessary to support economic recovery, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Others worry that the continued surge in mortgage applications without rate adjustments could lead to unsustainable levels of household debt.

In light of this decision, homeowners, prospective buyers, and investors will be closely watching the housing market’s trajectory and wondering how long the RBA can maintain its current stance.

Money

There’s a 50/50 chance of a 2024 recession

Published

19 hours ago

December 5, 2023

ticker NEWS

The economy has been remarkably resilient despite massive pressures – but is that about to change in 2024?

The US economy is in for a sharp slowdown in 2024 as a closely watched survey of top economists foresees stubbornly high inflation, a rise in unemployment and a 50% chance of recession.

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Money

Tesla insurance sued for ‘inflated’ premiums, judge rules

Published

22 hours ago

December 5, 2023

ticker NEWS

A judge has ruled that Tesla’s insurance unit must face a lawsuit alleging “inflated” premiums.

The decision comes after policyholders claimed the electric car company’s insurance division overcharged them for coverage.

The lawsuit, which was filed by a group of Tesla policyholders, alleges that the premiums charged by Tesla’s insurance unit were significantly higher than market rates for similar coverage.

The plaintiffs argue that Tesla’s insurance division engaged in unfair pricing practices, leading to overpayment by policyholders.

Tesla has not yet commented on the judge’s decision, but the lawsuit raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the company’s insurance pricing.

It also highlights the growing scrutiny on how tech companies enter and compete in traditional industries like insurance.