Anger Over Film Crews

* Re “Battle Scenes” (April 2) and homeowner Veda Weisman’s self-righteous anger over her neighborhood’s invasion by a film crew: Does Weisman go to the movies? Does she watch television, videos? How are these entertainments to be created? Is Weisman enjoying the benefits of Los Angeles’ strong economic base, due in no small part to the thriving entertainment business?

Even if the answer to all of these questions is no, the fact that she disrupted filming with her house alarm until she was paid $200 a day invalidates her points of principle--it’s less the act of an indignant homeowner who has the avenue of city government to resolve her issues, and more shows the colors of an opportunist.

STEVE SCHMIDT

Los Angeles

* Your article failed to note that the Entertainment Industry Development Corp. requires film companies to canvass neighborhoods and gather signatures from neighbors impacted by a company’s presence, with 75% to 80% of residents favoring the request for extended hours filming, or filming over multiple days.

This does not mean that a company can turn a deaf ear to residents and their concerns. The signature and notification process has only recently been instituted citywide, and was designed to give homeowners the opportunity to express their objections in advance, allowing the company time to respond and even offer alternatives to neighbors who have legitimate problems or conflicts with the proposed activity. A company should not have to resort to financial compensation to buy out lawn mowers or burglar alarms, as this article suggests, especially when the overwhelming majority of a neighborhood can be shown to support the production.

ED LIPPMAN

Los Angeles