But the film jobs are quite ephemeral, low wages,
yet long hours at odd (much filming at night) hours.
They disappear instantly on a wrap. Much like the
instant shift of call-centers from one coast to another.
If they were local films, or there was a state mandate
of 20 percent of the dates must be films made in the Washington State,
a real industry might occur not a series of Mac jobs.
And we might talk about the criminal involvment in some activities.

Canada has been incredibly aggressive with their tax incentives (or, in other words, bribes) to film producers to grab film productions---to the ears of H'wood producers, it sounds great because they get a huge refund on (Canadian) labor but it's had a devastating effect on American film and TV workers. Australia's gotten into the act as well, by throwing similar $$$ incentives at producers to take their shows there, although they haven't been nearly as successful as Canada at this racket.

it's gotten to the point where government subsidies will be the only thing that can save the industry in the US, a trade/bidding war if you will. Blame Canada, indeed.

Blame the USA. Canadian tax subsidies are TINY compared to the advantage american film makers have due to the exchange rate. COnsidering that it has been US policy for decades now to support a strong dollar, we have noone to blame but ourselves for so called "runaway" production.