Action!

It looks like San Francisco's plan to lure more film production into the city is working. There was a 26% increase in film activity last fiscal year compared to the year before, SFGate reports. Last fiscal year, film productions spent $56.23 million on labor, hotel stays, supplies and other costs. Why are so many production companies willing to shoot in SF? In 2006, San Francisco started a film rebate program that gives cuts on things like use of a Muni trademark and film permit fees. "I'm sure some people will complain, 'Why are we giving money away to Hollywood?'" Film Commission Executive Director Susannah Robbins said. "We're giving back money they already spent," and the money they spend locally far exceeds any rebate they would receive, she said. [SF Examiner/photo via Erik Wilson]