In the Apple TV+ action-comedy film Mayday, the iconic SR-71 Blackbird serves as the focal point for the movie's high-stakes catalyst. Directed by John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, the 1987 Cold War-set story follows hotshot U.S. Navy pilot Lieutenant Troy "Assassin" Kelly (played by Ryan Reynolds), who is forced to eject from his top-secret Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird spy plane. He crash-lands in the treacherous Siberian wilderness, where his only hope of escaping Soviet capture is an unlikely partnership with Nikolai Ustinov (Kenneth Branagh), an eccentric former KGB agent obsessed with Western pop culture. To build an authentic environment for the production, the filmmaking team leaned heavily into realistic details and physical prop construction: Recreating the Jet: Special effects company SCROGGINS AVIATION built the movie's SR-71 Blackbird from scratch, blending real aircraft structural components with custom fabrications to form a highly detailed, screen-accurate cockpit and fuselage utilizing some real structure and parts. We also supplied the F/A-18 Hornet cockpit in the film. At Scroggins, we have a wide selection of military and civilian aviation mockups including Helicopter, Aircraft and Spacecraft. All aviation mockups available for the film, streaming and television industry... Contact us about your next production: [email protected] also follows on Facebook @ScrogginsAviation for updates on upcoming build. Doug Scroggins III SCROGGINS AVIATION Mockup & Effects 702-776-8363 ScrogginsAviation.com

Crew, Contractors, & Compliance

In today's video and photo production industry, producers often rely on a mix of W-2 and 1099 freelance crew members to bring creative projects to life. While this flexibility helps businesses scale efficiently, it can also create confusion around Workers' Compensation requirements, understanding who is covered, and what responsibilities employers may have. Workers Compensation is designed to provide employees with medical care, wage replacement, and disability for work-related injuries and illnesses. One of the most common misconceptions is that individuals paid on a 1099 basis are automatically classified as independent contractors. In reality, worker classification standards can vary by state and are determined by factors such as the degree of direction and control exercised by the hiring entity, as well as the overall nature of the working relationship. Before production begins, it's a good idea to review worker classifications for each crew member, understand applicable state requirements, and maintain clear documentation for everyone working on the project. If your intent is to hire an independent contractor, consider obtaining a certificate of insurance (COI) and ensure that contract terms clearly define the responsibilities of each party.

Key Compliance Considerations

• Verify worker classification standards with state labor department • Develop a consistent onboarding process for all crew members and contractors • Maintain organized records of contracts, vendor agreements, and deal memos • Collect COI's from all crew that reflect General Liability and Work Comp • Save copies of all payroll documentation to streamline production administration and help facilitate a smooth audit process with your insurance provider Understanding Workers Compensation requirements before cameras start rolling can help creative businesses make informed decisions and operate more efficiently. As production teams grow and evolve, periodic reviews of employment practices and insurance considerations can be an important part of an overall risk management strategy.

How Can We Help?

Whether you're exploring Workers' Compensation coverage for the first time, or preparing for an upcoming renewal, or interested in an objective review of your insurance plan, TCP Insurance agency can help you navigate your options with confidence. Contact our team at [email protected] or call (310) 379-7788 to speak directly with one of our entertainment insurance specialists. We look forward to hearing from you!

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A Statement From Coalition for American Production (CAP) Executive Director Brian Papworth "When productions flee overseas, the economic damage ripples far beyond the studios-it strikes at the heart of our local supply chains. The Coalition for American Production gives a voice to the thousands of crucial vendors behind the scenes, from paint stores and lumber yards to transportation companies, and equipment facilities. Our industry funds roughly 162,000 businesses nationwide, the vast majority of which are small, community-based operations employing 10 or fewer workers. Your local bagel stores, dry cleaners, and gas stations are all in the film business, even if they don't know it. Establishing a federal production incentive is essential to stopping this outward migration, leveling the international playing field, and bringing the economic engine of American storytelling back home where it belongs." The release highlights the economic case for a federal production incentive and the importance of strengthening the United States' competitiveness as a destination for film and television production. Key Projected Economic Impacts (Cumulative 2027-2035) • $125.3 Billion in Additional Production Spend: The incentive is projected to reverse the decline in US production share, bringing the US share of global film and TV spending up to 65% and generating $125.3 billion in net additional direct production expenditure. • $249.1 Billion in Additional GVA: The total contribution to US Gross Value Added (GVA) is estimated at $249.1 billion over the nine-year period. • $133.1 Billion in Additional Labor Income: The boost in production would inject $133.1 billion directly into workers' wages and self-employed earnings. • 143,500 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Jobs Annually: The policy would support an annual average of ~143,500 additional FTE jobs (or ~153,700 total annual jobs, including part-time/temporary roles) across direct, indirect, and induced sectors. Without the incentive the report shows: Loss of Global Production Market Share • Continued Share Decline: The US share of global feature film production spending will drop from 34% in 2025 down to 25% by 2035. • Television Share Shrinkage: The US share of global series production spending will fall from 42% in 2025 to 29% by 2035. • Shift to International Hubs: Mobile US-funded productions will increasingly move offshore to take advantage of national and stacked incentive programs offered by competing countries (e.g., UK, Canada, Australia).

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New Arrivals

Check out the latest additions to our store!

Bigfoot Sasquatch Yeti Life Size Statue $3,699.00	King Cobra Snake Life Size Statue $499.00	T-Rex Skull Wall Decor Statue $1,899.00
White Royal Stag Deer Statue $1,899.00	Large North Pole Sign Statue $849.00	Peeking Baby Polar Bear Cub Statue $425.00

Back In-Stock

Our most popular items are back!

Bigfoot Sasquatch Yeti Life Size Statue $3,699.00	King Cobra Snake Life Size Statue $499.00	T-Rex Skull Wall Decor Statue $1,899.00
White Royal Stag Deer Statue $1,899.00	Large North Pole Sign Statue $849.00	Peeking Baby Polar Bear Cub Statue $425.00
Black Bear on Tree Trunk Statue $1,699.00	Hanging Mint Ice Cream Statue $329.00	Pirate Captain Life Size Statue $1,399.00

Browse all new arrivals

FAST TURNAROUND | HIGH-QUALITY | EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE When the deadline is tight, you need a team that delivers. In the entertainment and events industry, timelines can change fast. A production comes together at the last minute, an event date moves up, or a branding opportunity comes together with little notice. That's where Step and Repeat LA comes in. We specialize in helping productions, premieres, corporate events, brand activations and red-carpet events get event-ready with fast turnaround, high-quality printing and hands-on customer service from start to finish. From red carpet premieres and press events to trade shows, pop-ups, and brand activations, our team specializes in quick-turn production without sacrificing quality. Whether you need a custom step and repeat backdrop, media wall , vinyl graphics, signage , decals, or full event branding , we're ready to help make it happen - fast. We Can Help With: • Step and repeat backdrops • Media walls & red carpet setups • Custom signage & displays • Vinyl graphics & decals • Window graphics • 3D signage & dimensional lettering • Hedge walls & branded photo moments • Delivery & professional installation

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No matter the timeline, our team works quickly to get your event camera-ready and client-approved. Serving Los Angeles & Surrounding Areas Need installation this week? Need graphics printed overnight? Need a last-minute replacement before doors open? We've got you covered.

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Our experienced production and installation team helps agencies, studios, brands, event planners, and venues execute high-impact event visuals on tight schedules throughout Los Angeles.  Let's Get Your Event Ready Reply to this email with your event date, venue, and what you need and our team will help you turn it around quickly.

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Real people. Real support. Every step of the way. Contact Step and Repeat LA today and let's bring your brand to life. Visit our website , call (818) 434-7591, email [email protected] , or click here to request a quote!

For over two decades, we've proudly carried the full size Chevy Suburban. The time has come to offer Ford's equivalent SUV. From Expeditions and Explorers to Suburbans and Tahoes, no one has a more diverse SUV fleet built specifically for Southern California's production community.

The Ford Expedition

The Expedition employs an independent rear suspension, ensuring a soft ride on the highway. The Expedition has a Panoramic Vista Roof covering the first and second rows features power-controlled sliding glass and a power sunshade. The twin-turbo V-6 outperforms rival V-8s while delivering class-leading towing capacity and remarkably impressive fuel economy for a vehicle of its size. The Ford Expedition seamlessly merges practicality, performance, and capability into a full-size SUV. Its massive cabin offers generous seating across all three rows, paired with a convenient split tailgate for quick cargo access. The extended-wheelbase Max version boosts utility even higher with 36 cubic feet of storage behind the third row. The infotainment system is built on Google software and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Platinum package turns the Expedition into a luxury SUV.

Chevrolet Suburban

The 2026 Chevy Suburban shares its bones with the Tahoe and Silverado 1500, meaning it inherits the same heavy-duty towing and hauling power. But unlike the Silverado, the Suburban and Tahoe can squeeze in up to nine passengers across three roomy rows. Adults won't feel cramped in the back, and there is still tons of cargo space left over. Skip the bare-bones base model-which feels like a rental car-and look at the high-end trims that practically feel like luxury SUVs. Under the hood, you get a standard 5.3-liter V-8, but you can upgrade to a punchier 6.2-liter V-8 or a fuel-sipping turbo-diesel. It is massive, versatile, and so good at its job that it easily landed on your best list.

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Providing Car Rentals for LA's Entertainment Industry

At California Rent A Car, we offer much more than simply production vehicle rentals. We understand that a producer's job is all about the details. From your director's hotel to your star talent's latte, the difference between good and great is razor thin and your production car rental needs are no different. Whether it's a black on black luxury SUV to get your director to set or a cargo van to move equipment well before the camera starts rolling, we have what you need, when you need it. With every feature film, commercial, photo shoot or television show we work with, we consider ourselves an extension of your crew, taking each show (and reservation) as seriously as you do. Carrying everything from passenger vans and cargo vans to electric vehicles and SUVs, contact us today and experience for yourself why we've been an industry leader for 20 years. California Rent A Car 5890 Adams Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232 (310) 477-2727 [email protected] californiarac.com/studio-division

The 2026 Emerging Cinematographer Awards, presented by the International Cinematographers Guild, IATSE Local 600, will be held on Friday, October 2, at 6:30 pm, at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles. The awards will be followed by a reception. Seven Local 600 members will be recognized for their artistic achievement in cinematography for their short films, which will be screened at the event. The honorees are: Connor Van Bodell, Blaine Dunkley, Amy Faust, Barbie Leung, Jordan Oglesby, Jannis Schelenz, and Haley Watson. On this evening, the ECA Premier sponsor, Sony, will present the ICG Distinguished Filmmaker Award to Darran Tiernan in recognition of his outstanding creative contributions to the art and craft of filmmaking. Former Local 600 national president and longtime ECA co-chair Steven Poster, ASC, will be presented with the Mentor Award. For more information on the ECA or to reserve seats, visit www.ecawards.net . ICG Handle: @ICGLocal600