They're the can-do people who make the costumes, build the sets and create the props that transport us to another reality in movies. Now, many of them have been sidelined, as film and TV production grinds to a halt. Several local unions have joined forces to create much-needed equipment during the coronavirus crisis. Sam Blake reports on how it came together.
Tinder is booming as lonely homebound users across the world go looking for companionship, as Tami Abdollah reports.
Our next virtual roundtable will be on the impact of coronavirus on the entertainment industry. Join us! We've also announced our first virtual pitch showcase featuring Southern California startups in any industry. Register your company here.
Hollywood's Craftperson Army vs. Covid-19
"We're the MacGyvers of this industry."
The Motion Picture Costumers Local #705 is working with the Costume Designers Guild #892, Affiliated Property Craftpersons #44, and a host of theatrical groups to help create needed supplies for the coronavirus fight. Here's how a group of rag-tag "fabric nerds" are working to save lives. Read more >>
Coronavirus Updates: Cases Surge in L.A. County
Los Angeles County officials reported 257 new cases, Santa Monica is closing schools for the long haul and Bill Gates weighs in on reopening businesses. Follow dot.LA on Twitter for the latest updates.
Today:
* Coronavirus cases surge in L.A. County
* Navy hospital ship Mercy enters the Port of Los Angeles
* Bill Gates warns there's "no middle ground" in coronavirus fight
* Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District will remain closed indefinitely
Love in the Time of COVID-19
The novel coronavirus may have forced people into physical isolation, but it has not stopped love. It appears, in fact, that people are connecting more than ever, across the globe — at least, on Tinder. In response, the dating app is making its Passport feature free for all subscribers. Read more >>
Our Next Strategy Session: Hollywood Goes Home
As film and TV production halt and the appetite for entertainment skyrockets, user-generated content on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are poised for a golden age. Join us Tuesday morning at 11 a.m. for "dot.LA Strategy Session: Hollywood Goes Home" — an executive-level briefing on the seismic changes happening in the entertainment economy.
Speakers:
- Jonathan Skogmo, Founder & Chief Executive Officer @ Jukin Media
- Alyssa Limperis, Actress, Writer and Comedian
- Sam Blake, Entertainment Reporter @ dot.LA
Sign Up For Our Virtual Pitch Showcase
We are so excited to host our first virtual pitch showcase on Thursday, April 9th. More details to follow. Submissions are open for company nominations to present at the live event. We are looking for Southern California startups in any industry — but, particularly companies that can have a positive impact on the current COVID-19 pandemic. Submissions will be evaluated on a rolling basis. You will be notified by dot.LA if you are selected to participate. Nominate your company here >>