A study by the Milken Institute shows how last winters’ strike cost California $2.1 billion and caused 37,700 direct and indirect lost jobs. All in all, it had an enormous effect on the already difficult economy. “This was not a discrete one-time hit, [the strike] had a substantial impact on California’s economy in general and on Los Angeles County in particular,” the study stated.

It also pointed out how most fired workers didn’t get their job back after the strike ended in February. But other businesses were also squeezed. Caterers, cleaners and hotels for example, were all affected indirectly. The total Californian personal income is projected to drop $3 billion. And it won’t return to normal until next year.

That is, if there won’t be a second strike. “A SAG strike would have a devastating effect on the California economy because it would be occurring right at the point when we hope the economy begins to come out of recession,” one of the authors said. Well, let’s hope not. But I’m certainly not getting my hopes up.

TrovaCinema took some shots of Tom Hanks and Ron Howard at the set of ‘Angels & Demons.’ Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor weren’t there, but we know McGregor might still be filming ‘Amelia’ in Canada.

Yikes, I hope all that info didn’t sound like some kind of gossip magazine. Let’s throw in some numbers to look professional. Reportedly, Tom Hanks will get $50 million for making the ‘Da Vinci Code’ prequel if it does well at the box office. Below you can view his million dollar run.

[update]
Naomi Watts is apparently not part of the cast anymore. She has been replaced by Ayelet Zurer, who recently appeared in ‘Vantage Point.’ Thanks for the tip steandric!