Boston Gangster Film 'Black Mass' Contributed Millions to Local Economy

Photo Credit: IMBD

By FRANK O’LAUGHLIN (Patch Staff)

Warner Brothers’ production of the film “Black Mass,” an on-screen portrayal of notorious Boston gangster James “Whitey” Bulger, contributed millions of dollars to the local economy, according to the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA).

The production contributed nearly $20 million to the state’s economy throughout the 103 days it spent prepping, constructing, shooting, and wrapping in the Commonwealth. Over $8.5 million of that total went to the more than 660 local cast and crew members hired for the film.

Several local businesses and vendors also greatly benefitted from the production. In particular, the production spent over $820,000 on car rentals, nearly $560,000 on wardrobe purchases, and more than $453,000 on catering, bakery goods, and other food items, among other local business expenditures. The film also paid over $2.7 million in location fees.

“These latest figures make clear what many local workers and businesses already know - the production of ‘Black Mass’ was a driver for economic activity every day it spent in Massachusetts and its impact will continue to ripple through and lift local communities,” stated MPAA Chairman and CEO Senator Chris Dodd.

“We’re grateful for this opportunity to once again shine a light on how the film and TV industry supports jobs and economic growth, especially as audiences prepare to see what promises to be a thrilling and entertaining movie.”