In March, Raul Riveros experienced a health crisis while working on a Jonah Hill movie, resulting in emergency surgery after a mesh implant became entangled with his intestines. His recovery prevented him from working for several months, leading to financial strain as his disability payments covered only a fraction of his earnings. Faced with the cost of living in Los Angeles, he and his wife, Suzette, considered relocating to a less expensive area.
Mr. Riveros, 50, had built a career as a digital imaging technician in Hollywood, but the film industry has seen significant changes, including reduced salaries and the impact of the pandemic. He noted a downturn in job stability, financial pressures from maxed-out credit cards, and a lien on his home. He felt that the benefits of living in Los Angeles for his career were overshadowed by the high cost of living.
After previously working on the Netflix series “Obliterated” in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mr. Riveros and his wife decided to leave Los Angeles for a more manageable lifestyle in the southwestern city. Although Albuquerque offered lower living costs and a simpler lifestyle, the couple acknowledged the risks of leaving behind their connections in the film industry.
The film industry has been undergoing significant transformation, with a decline in filming permits in Los Angeles and increased outsourcing of productions to areas with tax incentives. Local unions report high levels of unemployment among crew members, creating a difficult job market for industry professionals.
Despite their optimism about relocating, the couple faced challenges during their move, including the difficulty of selling their California home and managing dual housing costs. By November, as they settled into their new environment, they grappled with uncertainties about employment in Albuquerque, which was experiencing its own saturation of industry talent.
Upon securing a job on the Fox show “The Cleaning Lady,” Mr. Riveros felt a renewed sense of purpose but faced the challenge of competing with local talent. He was also concerned about the future stability of the New Mexico film industry, especially if financial incentives were reduced.
While the family enjoyed the charm of Albuquerque, including its community events and natural beauty, the question remained whether this new location could offer the same opportunities as Los Angeles. As of mid-December, Mr. Riveros was still navigating the complexities of transitioning to their new life and was hopeful for future job prospects in the changing landscape of the film industry.