Based on estimates from the Quebec Film and
Television Council (QFTC) in 2024, the visual effects (VFX) and
animation industry in Quebec—heavily concentrated in Montreal—has
seen over 50% of its workforce lose their jobs or experience
significant unemployment following tax credit cuts and the 2023
Hollywood strikes.
Total Job Loss: More
than 4,000 jobs were lost in the 20 months preceding September
2024.
Industry Decline: The
workforce dropped from a peak of over 8,000 employees in 2022
to an estimated 2,603 in 2024.
Unemployment Rate: Some
estimates indicate that 50% of the 8,000 workers were
unemployed at the height of the crisis, with some reports
suggesting unemployment rates in the sector reached as high as
75% for certain periods.
Key Factors for High Unemployment
in Montreal:
Tax Credit Changes: In
March 2024, Quebec capped the tax credit at 65 per cent for
international studios, making the province less competitive,
which resulted in major studios like Scanline VFX shutting
down and others reducing staff.
Studio Closures &
Reductions: Cinesite Montreal reported losing
half its workforce, and major layoffs occurred at other
studios such as DNEG and MPC.
Impact on Talent: Many
experienced professionals, including senior VFX supervisors,
have faced long periods of unemployment, with some reporting
having to leave the province or change careers.
While
there have been smaller, temporary hiring spikes, the overall
situation in Montreal has remained slow, with many contracts
ending in early 2025 and fierce competition for fewer positions.