The film production industry in the US focuses on creating original movies and television shows. This dynamic environment ranges from large studios like Sony Pictures to independent companies like Focus Features, all creating content catering to different audiences. With the rise of streaming platforms, more production companies are adapting to include digital distribution, reshaping how films reach viewers. An interesting segment within the industry is the boom in animated films, as studios vie for market relevance, emphasizing creativity over conventional narratives. Moreover, the industry continues exploring international collaborations, proving that storytelling knows no borders.

This listing features a mix of film production companies across various sizes located primarily in California, with others in New York. Founded between 1912 and 2010, these companies include renowned names like Universal Pictures and emerging players like Skydance Animation. From major studios with thousands of employees to smaller enterprises with niche specialties, each company contributes uniquely to the film landscape, illustrating the breadth of creativity and innovation present in today's cinema world.

Continue reading to discover the top film production companies in the US.

Top 15 Film Production Companies Companies in the US

1. Sony Pictures Entertainment

• Website: sonypictures.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Culver City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 65%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%, India 3%, Other 24%
• Latest funding: Series A, $1.0M, November 2000
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: sony-pictures-entertainment

Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. is an entertainment studio based in Culver City, California, specializing in the production and distribution of films and television shows. Established in 1987, the company has built a robust portfolio that includes popular franchises and critically acclaimed films. Sony Pictures operates various divisions, such as Sony Pictures Animation, which creates animated features, and Sony Pictures Classics, which focuses on independent and art-house films. The company is committed to delivering engaging content to consumers through theaters, streaming services, and television networks. With nearly 10,000 employees, Sony Pictures plays a vital role in the global entertainment industry, continually adapting to the evolving landscape of media consumption.

2. Universal Pictures

• Website: universalpictures.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Universal City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 58%, United Kingdom (UK) 17%, France 4%, Other 21%
• Founded year: 1912
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: universal-pictures

Universal Pictures, based in Universal City, California, is a prominent media and entertainment company that specializes in film and television production and distribution. Founded in 1912, the company has a rich legacy in the film industry, producing a wide array of movies that cater to various audience preferences. Universal Pictures is known for its innovative storytelling and has been involved in the production of numerous successful films over the decades. The company is currently engaged in creating new content, with several films like 'Wicked', 'Wolf Man', and 'Dog Man' slated for release in the near future. As part of NBCUniversal, Universal Pictures benefits from a robust infrastructure that supports its film and television endeavors, ensuring it remains a key player in the entertainment sector.

3. Mgm

• Website: mgm.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%, Canada 3%, Other 8%
• Latest funding: $8.4B, May 2021
• Founded year: 1924
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: mgm

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) is a prominent media company based in Beverly Hills, California, specializing in film and television production and distribution. Founded in 1924, MGM has a storied legacy, known for producing a wide array of high-quality films and television shows that have captivated audiences worldwide. The company operates by creating compelling entertainment content, catering to both consumers and industry partners. MGM's portfolio includes a mix of classic films and contemporary productions, showcasing its ability to adapt to changing market demands. With a workforce of approximately 4768 employees, MGM maintains a significant presence in the media industry, and its recent funding of $8.45 billion in May 2021 underscores its financial strength and commitment to future projects.

4. Focus Features

• Website: focusfeatures.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Universal City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: $5.0M, March 2012
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: focus-features

Focus Features LLC is a film production and distribution company based in Universal City, California. Established in 2002, the company specializes in independent and foreign films, providing a platform for unique cinematic experiences. Focus Features has produced a variety of films, including documentaries and animated features, and is known for its commitment to storytelling that often diverges from mainstream cinema. The company has a strong presence in both theatrical releases and home viewing platforms, ensuring that its films reach a wide audience. Recent projects include 'Piece By Piece', a documentary that utilizes LEGO animation to tell the story of Pharrell Williams, and 'Conclave', a thriller set to premiere soon. Focus Features operates primarily in the United States, with a small percentage of its workforce in the United Kingdom, reflecting its international reach. The company is a subsidiary of Comcast, which provides it with additional resources and support in the competitive film industry.

5. 20th Century Fox International Corporation

• Website: 20thcenturystudios.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, Philippines 5%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%
• Founded year: 1935
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: 20th-century-fox-international-corporation

20th Century Fox International Corporation, now operating as 20th Century Studios, is a film studio based in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1935, the company specializes in the production and distribution of films, catering to a wide audience that includes families and children. 20th Century Studios has produced a variety of films across multiple genres, showcasing their ability to create engaging cinematic content. The studio's notable works include classics like 'Home Alone' and more recent titles such as 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children'. The company remains active in the industry, with new projects in development, such as 'Alien: Romulus', which is set to release in 2024. This ongoing production activity highlights their commitment to the film industry and their role in delivering entertainment to audiences worldwide.

6. New Regency Productions

• Website: newregency.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 62%, United Kingdom (UK) 24%, Switzerland 8%, Other 5%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $825.0M, June 2020
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: new-regency-productions

New Regency Productions is an entertainment company based in Los Angeles, California, specializing in film and television production, as well as stage and documentary projects. Founded in 1991, the company has built a reputation for producing high-quality films that resonate with audiences worldwide. New Regency has been involved in the production of numerous critically acclaimed films, including 'The Revenant', 'Bohemian Rhapsody', and 'Little Women', showcasing their ability to create culturally relevant content. The company has also ventured into documentary filmmaking through a partnership with Black Bear Pictures, aiming to produce high-profile non-fiction films and series. With a workforce of around 112 employees and a significant funding round of $825 million in 2020, New Regency continues to be a relevant and active entity in the entertainment industry.

7. Miramax

• Website: miramax.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: $375.0M, December 2019
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: miramax

Miramax, LLC is a film and television production and distribution company based in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1979, Miramax has built a reputation for producing original films that have received critical acclaim and numerous awards. The company operates under the ownership of beIN Media Group and Paramount Global, focusing on delivering high-quality entertainment. With a workforce of around 313 employees, Miramax is recognized as one of the more active independent studios in the industry. Their recent projects include 'The Holdovers,' which has received multiple Academy Award nominations, and 'The Beekeeper,' featuring Jason Statham. Miramax also has a growing slate of television content, including adaptations of popular films and new series. The company has a rich history, with 278 Academy Award nominations and 68 Oscars, including four for Best Picture. This track record highlights their significant contributions to the film industry.

8. Skydance Animation

• Website: skydance.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Spain 75%, United States (USA) 24%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $1.0B, July 2023
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: skydanceanim

Skydance Animation, a subsidiary of Skydance Media, was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Santa Monica, California. The company specializes in creating high-quality animated films and series, aiming to tell bold and original stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. With a workforce of over 500 employees, Skydance Animation has established studios in Los Angeles and Madrid, fostering a collaborative environment for creative talent. Their projects include notable titles such as 'Luck' and 'Spellbound', which showcase their commitment to innovative storytelling. Recently, Skydance Animation secured $1 billion in funding, indicating strong investor confidence and a robust growth trajectory. The company is actively producing content for major streaming platforms, including a multi-year deal with Apple to create premium animated features and series.

9. Bollywood Hollywood Production Inc.

• Website: bollywoodhollywood.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 85%, United States (USA) 8%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: bollywood-hollywood-production-inc.

Bollywood Hollywood Production Inc., founded in 2000 by Prashant Shah, is a film production company based in Los Angeles, California. The company specializes in creating and producing high-quality audiovisual content, offering a range of services that include film and television production, event production, and original content development. With a team that operates across major cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, London, and Mumbai, they have produced more than 35 films and television shows with budgets ranging from $3 million to $100 million. Their client base includes both major studios and independent filmmakers, reflecting their ability to cater to various segments of the industry. The company is dedicated to producing content that promotes positive social change, engaging audiences worldwide. Their projects often highlight egalitarian themes, aiming to inspire and entertain a global audience.

10. Troma Entertainment, Inc.

• Website: troma.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: troma-entertainment

Troma Entertainment, Inc. is a private film production and distribution company based in the United States, founded in 1974 by Lloyd Kaufman and Michael Herz. Known for its offbeat and often controversial films, Troma has established itself as a pioneer in independent cinema. The company boasts a library of nearly 1,000 films, including cult classics like 'The Toxic Avenger' and 'Tromeo & Juliet'. Troma operates its own streaming service, TromaNow, which features a mix of its classic titles and new independent works. Additionally, Troma hosts the TromaDance Film Festival, a platform dedicated to showcasing truly independent films without the barriers of entry fees. The company has a reputation for nurturing emerging talent, with many filmmakers who started at Troma going on to achieve significant success in Hollywood. Troma's unique approach to filmmaking and distribution continues to resonate with audiences and filmmakers alike, making it a significant entity in the independent film industry.

11. Imagine Entertainment & Television

• Website: imagine-entertainment.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: March 2016
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: imagine-entertainment

Imagine Entertainment & Television, based in Beverly Hills, California, is an entertainment company that specializes in film and television production. Founded in 1986, the company has built a reputation for creating and distributing a wide array of content, including feature films and documentaries. With a workforce of approximately 186 employees, Imagine Entertainment has been involved in notable projects that have garnered critical acclaim, such as 'Apollo 13', which won top honors from the Producers Guild and the Directors Guild. The company has also produced the Emmy-winning series 'Genius: Picasso'. Their recent initiatives, including a strategic partnership with Warner Music Group and a first-look deal with Apple Studios, highlight their ongoing relevance and adaptability in the evolving media landscape. Imagine Entertainment continues to cater to both consumers and businesses, demonstrating a robust presence in the film production sector.

12. Sony Pictures Classics

• Website: sonyclassics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sonypicturesclassics

Sony Pictures Classics is a film distribution and production company based in New York City, founded in 1992. It operates as an autonomous division of Sony Pictures Entertainment. The company specializes in independent films, working closely with acclaimed filmmakers from around the globe. Sony Pictures Classics has been instrumental in bringing a variety of films to audiences, including award-winning titles such as 'Whiplash', 'Call Me By Your Name', and 'Amour'. The company has garnered significant recognition, with its films receiving numerous Academy Award nominations and wins. Their commitment to preserving film heritage is evident through their restoration efforts of classic works. With a dedicated team and a focus on quality storytelling, Sony Pictures Classics continues to play a vital role in the film industry.

13. Black Bear

• Website: blackbearpictures.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 53%, United States (USA) 36%, Australia 7%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: black-bear-pictures-llc

Black Bear Pictures is a film studio and management agency based in Santa Monica, California, established in 2011. The company specializes in producing, financing, and distributing high-quality content for both film and television. With a dedicated management arm, Black Bear represents a variety of artists, including writers, directors, and actors, ensuring that their projects maintain creative integrity while appealing to a global audience. The studio is known for its commitment to producing films that resonate with audiences, having released notable titles such as 'Mudbound', 'I Care A Lot', and 'The Imitation Game'. Black Bear operates internationally, overseeing sales and distribution rights for a select number of projects each year, and collaborates with top distributors worldwide. Their focus on premium content and artist representation positions them as a significant entity in the film industry.

14. Samuel Goldwyn Films

• Website: samuelgoldwynfilms.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Culver City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: samuel-goldwyn-films

Samuel Goldwyn Films is an independently owned and operated motion-picture company based in Culver City, California. Established in 2000, the company specializes in the development, production, and distribution of innovative feature films and documentaries. Samuel Goldwyn Films is dedicated to working with both renowned and emerging filmmakers, providing a platform for original voices and unique storytelling. Their portfolio includes notable titles such as the Academy Award-nominated documentary "Super Size Me" and critically acclaimed films like "God's Own Country" and "Another Round." The company has a strong track record of acquiring North American rights to international films, showcasing their commitment to bringing diverse narratives to audiences. With a focus on quality content, Samuel Goldwyn Films continues to be an active participant in the film industry, catering to both film enthusiasts and distributors.

15. Roadside Attractions

• Website: roadsideattractions.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: August 2015
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: roadside-attractions

Roadside Attractions is a film distribution and production company based in Los Angeles, California, established in 2003. The company specializes in independent cinema, acquiring and distributing films that offer unique and artistic storytelling. Over the years, Roadside Attractions has released a number of critically acclaimed films, including 'Judy', 'Manchester by the Sea', and 'The Peanut Butter Falcon', among others. Their films have collectively grossed over $500 million and garnered 23 Academy Award nominations, showcasing their impact in the industry. Roadside Attractions is known for its innovative strategies that maximize the value of their films through theatrical releases, appealing to audiences who appreciate quality independent films. Recent acquisitions include titles that have premiered at prestigious film festivals, further solidifying their role in the independent film market.

Film Production Companies Insights: Key Companies in the US

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