La Brea: Hollywood drama series coming to Mount Macedon

Hollywood is coming to Bendigo’s doorstep with a television drama series set to be primarily filmed in Victoria, injecting millions into the economy.

A shot of virtual La Brea production at Docklands Studio.

A Hollywood drama series is coming to Bendigo’s doorstep.

Season two of La Brea, a TV production about a sinkhole that mysteriously opens in Los Angeles, transporting a disparate group of strangers to an unexplainable primeval world, will be filmed primarily in the Mount Macedon region.

Federal Communications Minister Paul Fletcher, says the return of production is expected to inject more than $118 million into the economy, create jobs for 390 Australian cast and crew, and use the services of around 800 local businesses.

“The return of this series to Australia is a testament to our talented screen sector and stunning landscape, which both caught the attention of viewers across the globe and earned La Brea a nomination at the 2021 People‘s Choice Awards,” he said.

As a part of this production, Universal Studio Group and Matchbox Pictures will partner with the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) on a training initiative dedicated to virtual production.

LA BREA cast pictured from left Veroncia St, Clair as Riley Valez, Karina Logue as Marybeth Hayes, Josh McKenzie as Lucas Hayes, Rohan Mirchandaney as Scott Israni. Picture: Sarah Enticknap/NBC

This project is a part of the Federal Government’s $540 million Location which provides a 16.5 per cent location offset tax rebate as well as a direct grant.

The Victorian Government will also be backing the project through the $191.5 million VICSCREEN strategy.

La Brea case from left Jack Martin as Josh Harris, Diesel La Torraca as Isiah, and Natalie Zea as Eve Harris. Picture: Sarah Enticknap/NBC.

Matchbox Pictures chief operating officer Matt Vitins said the series return was a credit to the creative and production team.

“La Brea is flagship international television. It is the type of project that proves and extends the capacity of the Australian screen industry,” Vitins said.

“We are thrilled at the success of season one and to be working again with Universal Television and Keshet Studios on season two.”