Michael Mann movie begins filming in L.A.

Michael Mann’s international cyber thriller has quietly begun filming in Los Angeles.

Raja Productions US recently pulled various permits for “camera tests” at various locations around Los Angeles for the untitled Michael Mann movie known as “Cyber.” Mann, a director and producer on “Cyber,” previously filmed in the area with HBO’s racetrack drama “Luck,” which shut down last year in the wake of three horse fatalities.

This week a small crew from “Cyber” was set to film at the JW Marriott Los Angeles hotel at L.A. Live. Previous locations have included the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Alexander Avenue and the corner of 6th and Catalina streets, according to film permits.

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The Legendary Pictures film tells the story of American and Chinese authorities collaborating to crack a high-level computer hacking operation.

Set for release next year, the movie stars Chris Hemsworth, Viola Davis and prominent Chinese actors Wei Tang and Leehom Wang. Parts of the film also are expected to shoot in Hong Kong, marking the latest example of collaboration between China and Hollywood filmmakers eager to penetrate the burgeoning Asian film market.

“Cyber” is among several lower-budget features shooting in L.A. So far this year, feature film activity is up 16% compared with the same time a year ago, while television production is up 22% and commercial production has climbed 5% higher, according to permit data compiled by the Los Angeles Times.

The data, from the nonprofit group FilmL.A. Inc., track location filming -- that which occurs on noncertified soundstages and L.A. city and county streets.

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