Vancouver film workers take on side hustles amid Hollywood shutdown

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.