Respect the Process Podcast: How to Survive the Commercial Production Revolution with CMS Production President Tony Low
Tony Low, founder and president of CMS Productions, joined filmmaker Jordan Brady on Respect the Process for a wide-ranging conversation on today’s commercial production landscape. From the realities of union compliance to the growing trend of in-house studios, Tony offers a grounded perspective every producer, director, and creative stakeholder should hear.
Here’s a breakdown of the episode’s most valuable insights...
Who Is Tony Low?
Before launching CMS Productions in 2002, Tony was a CPA who worked across finance, advertising, and production. CMS now provides union signatory services and production support, making it easier for agencies, brands, and production companies to stay compliant and on schedule.
5 Key Takeaways from the Episode
1. The “Flip” Phenomenon Is Real
When union crew members accept work on non-union shoots, they often report the production to their union. This triggers a “flip,” which can result in walk-offs, stalled shoots, and major delays.
The fix... Work with CMS ahead of time to handle compliance and prevent costly surprises.
2. Los Angeles Production Is Slowing Down
Productions are looking elsewhere... not because L.A. lacks talent, but because costs, limited commercial incentives, and union complexities are pushing shoots overseas. Mexico City, Eastern Europe, and Barcelona are increasingly attractive alternatives.
Tony explains... These cities offer high-quality production environments, English-speaking talent, and more favorable financial terms.
3. Brands Are Building Their Own Studios
From Walmart to Diageo, major advertisers are developing internal production capabilities. They’re hiring in-house talent, building stages, and managing their own shoots.
This shift is real... Agencies are feeling the impact, and production companies need to adapt quickly.
4. CMS Production Support Is a Game-Changer
Tony outlines CMS’s role as a fully functional back office for agencies and brands. They handle:
Payroll and union compliance
Petty cash, credit cards, and location checks
Interim financing while payments are pending
The value is clear... CMS helps productions move quickly and stay organized, especially when internal finance teams can’t.
5. Small Shops Must Stay Agile
For smaller production companies and indie directors, Tony emphasizes the need for adaptability.
His advice...
Know your financials, and don’t ignore the back end of the business
Recognize how the industry is changing, and pivot when needed
Use CMS to scale when internal resources aren’t enough
Final Thoughts... Respecting a Changing Process
The commercial production model is shifting. Agencies and brands want more control. Budgets are tighter. Union rules are more visible. And timelines are unforgiving. Tony’s message is simple... adapt with partners who understand how to manage the chaos and protect your bottom line.
🎧 Listen to the full episode here and explore how CMS Productions can support your next project—from union signatory services to full-scale production support.
