Warner Bros. and Sony Las Vegas studio project
Las Vegas is solidifying its status as a major player in the entertainment industry as Warner Bros. Discovery and Sony Pictures have announced a strategic partnership for a $400 million studio project in Summerlin. This collaboration marks a shift from their previous competition, where both studios were vying for separate projects requiring Nevada state tax incentives.
A United Front After a Year of Rivalry
Initially, Warner Bros. supported a project at the UNLV Harry Reid Research and Technology Park, in partnership with Birtcher Development. Their ambitious plan included 12-14 soundstages, with a 17-year commitment valued at $8.5 billion. Meanwhile, Sony Pictures was developing a smaller studio in Summerlin with 10 soundstages, as part of a larger commercial hub featuring hotels and retail spaces.
Despite efforts to secure funding for both projects, Nevada lawmakers rejected a 2023 bill that would have required $190 million annually in subsidies. This rejection underscored the reality that only one project would likely receive backing. Consequently, Warner Bros. dropped its UNLV plans and joined Sony’s Summerlin project.
Nevada’s Film Industry Expansion and Legislative Hurdles
The Summerlin studio project, led by Assemblywoman Sandra Jauregui, seeks at least $80 million per year in Nevada tax credits, pending approval from the Legislature and Governor Joe Lombardo. In addition, $25 million has been proposed to attract productions to other Nevada locations.
Governor Lombardo has expressed skepticism about subsidizing the film industry, especially considering previous state investments of $1.1 billion to bring the Oakland A’s and Raiders to Las Vegas. He voiced concerns about public perception and financial viability of supporting major entertainment corporations.
Industry Leaders React to the Partnership
Despite political hurdles, Warner Bros. and Sony executives remain optimistic. Simon Robinson, COO of Warner Bros. Discovery, emphasized Las Vegas’ potential as the company’s third production hub alongside Burbank and London.
Sony Pictures Entertainment Chairman, Tony Vinciquerra, celebrated the collaboration, stating, “This unique and powerful partnership will lay the foundation for a thriving film and television production industry in the Silver State.”
What’s Next
While Warner Bros. has exited the UNLV-based Birtcher project, Senator Roberta Lange insists that it will move forward with Manhattan Beach Studios as its new partner. She remains committed to advancing her bill, which is expected to be heard in March.
Meanwhile, Jauregui’s bill, supporting the Summerlin project, is slated for a hearing on Thursday. Industry insiders anticipate that Warner Bros.’ involvement may increase the total funding request, but both companies will share the incentives.
Currently, Nevada offers only $10 million annually in production incentives—significantly less than California and New Mexico. If this bill passes, it could transform Nevada into a competitive hub for film and television production, bringing jobs, investment, and global recognition to Las Vegas.
The Warner Bros. and Sony partnership signals a pivotal moment for Nevada’s film industry. If approved, the Summerlin studio could position Las Vegas as a leading entertainment hub, rivaling Hollywood and attracting major productions. While challenges remain, the growing economic impact of the entertainment sector makes a compelling case for lawmakers to embrace the future of film in Nevada.
Stay tuned to Just Now News for the latest updates on this developing story.
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