When I chatted with Len Dickter, co-creator of motion picture soundstage A Very Good Space and founding partner of production company A Very Good Agency, I knew I was in for an eye-opening conversation about the ever-evolving world of film, television and content. Len and his partners aren’t just riding the wave of change—they’re helping to shape it. From pioneering flexible, cutting-edge soundstages in Los Angeles to championing the rise of independent production, Len is part of a creative powerhouse that sees the future of filmmaking as an exciting intersection of technology, efficiency, and bold storytelling. Ready to learn how innovation is rewriting the Hollywood playbook? Let’s dive in.
For those who may not be familiar, can you tell us about your work and your company?
I’m one of three partners at A Very Good Agency, a film production company we started in 2012. In 2020, we expanded our operations by opening A Very Good Space, a 12,500-square-foot soundstage located in the heart of Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley.
Our space is highly adaptable, featuring a 40-by-50-foot white cyclorama, pre-hung black and chroma green curtains, and state-of-the-art RGB lighting. We also offer LED wall technology supported by an XR workstation. Think of it as an elegant Swiss Army knife for production—we’ve created a space designed for efficiency and creativity while prioritizing hospitality for cast and crew.
What inspired you to transition into the film and television industry?
I began my career in advertising as a copywriter and creative director. By the early 2000s, I realized I wanted more creative control over the realization of my projects. This led me to leave the agency world, join a production company, and develop skills in directing, producing, and editing.
In 2012, my partners and I founded A Very Good Agency, which began as a hybrid of agency and production services. We eventually shifted our focus to film and content production, but we’ve retained that agency-level strategic approach in everything we do.
What makes A Very Good Space unique among soundstages?
Our stage facility is designed to offer flexibility and efficiency, especially for independent filmmakers and smaller productions. We can quickly transition between setups—whether it’s a white cyc, black background, chroma green, or LED wall—with minimal downtime.
We also embrace virtual production, using tools like Unreal Engine and live keying to eliminate the need for costly external locations, or complicated setups. Our design and technology allows filmmakers to put more of their budget into what’s in front of the camera, which is crucial for independent producers trying to maximize their resources.
With soundstages popping up across the country, why choose Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is still the heart of the film industry. We have an unmatched concentration of talent, crews, equipment, and technology, all available 24/7. While filming in California isn’t the cheapest option, the infrastructure here is unparalleled, and our weather allows for year-round production.
How do you view the role of technology, such as virtual production and AI, in filmmaking?
Technology is a tool, not a replacement for traditional filmmaking methods. For example, green screens and LED walls are incredibly effective in the right context, but they won’t replace on-location shoots or practical sets entirely. It’s all about using the right tool for the right job.
AI is another area where there’s a lot of concern, but our hope is that it becomes a complement to creativity, not a threat. It can streamline certain processes and open new possibilities, but it can’t replace the human touch in storytelling, or realization.
What challenges are soundstages like yours facing in today’s industry?
The rapid pace of change is a major challenge. From the pandemic and strikes to climate change and shifts in studio financing models, it feels like the entire industry is in flux.
The rise of streaming has also disrupted traditional models, leading to more cautious spending from studios and networks. However, this shift opens opportunities for independent filmmakers to bring innovative stories to life.
What types of projects are you currently excited about?
We’re diving into live streaming, which offers real-time audience engagement and interactivity. Recently, we supported a live stream for Beast Games, part of Mr. Beast’s Amazon series. Seeing how those crews adapt on the fly to audience feedback was fascinating.
We’re also working with the U.S. Navy to apply motion picture techniques to internal documentary and research films, ensuring that critical information is delivered in a compelling and effective way, for audiences as diverse as Congress and DoD to fleet-wide training and investment. It’s rewarding to take our expertise and use it to make a real-world impact, especially in a territory not typically served by professional storytelling and realization.
Where do you see the industry heading in the next few years?
As my partners at Very Good would affirm, we believe we’re entering an exciting new age for the independent producer. The barriers to entry are lower than ever, and great ideas have a real chance to find an audience without going through traditional gatekeepers.
That said, I hope to see a shift away from the over-reliance on tentpole films. While they dominate the box office, they often overshadow smaller, innovative stories that deserve to be told.
I also think live streaming will continue to expand, offering new platforms for artists and creators. And I hope the industry focuses on preserving its craft by supporting the next generation of talent through mentorship and fair labor practices.
