Media for Texas hosted the Texas Film Experience last Wednesday on the South Lawn of the Capitol building. The event, which was open to the public, took place from Noon to 3 p.m., and provided a unique opportunity for Texans to not only step onto a live film set but speak directly with industry professionals (screenwriters, producers, camera crews, costume designers, makeup artists, sound editors, stunt doubles, etc.) as they walked through every stage of the filmmaking process.

According to their website, Media for Texas is a nonprofit organization co-founded by sixth-generation Texans Chase Musselwhite and Grant Wood. Their goal is to work with legislators and local stakeholders to increase state incentives and ensure multimedia projects are born and stay in Texas.

Showcasing how the state’s entertainment industry drives economic growth and job creation comes on the heels of the 89^th Texas Legislature’s prioritization of in-state film production. Earlier this year, Senator Joan Huffman filed Senate Bill 22. If passed, $500 million will be set aside for film incentives every two years for the next 10 years, and television and film companies will be able to qualify for grants if they meet certain requirements. The bill prohibits funding inappropriate content or negative portrayals of Texas, and completed projects must go through a final review before funding is disbursed.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick took to X on Friday to show his support for making Texas the next movie capital of the world, reassuring the public the Lone Star State is not interested in becoming the next Hollywood. He said, “So that everyone understands, the incentives do not go to actors, producers, writers or directors. It goes to all the people who work behind the scenes, including those who build the sets, those who haul the equipment needed to film, the makeup artists, the electricians, etc. On any given large shoot, hundreds of people are employed with minimum salaries that start near $50,000 for the newest person learning their trade.”

For more information on how to get involved or to show support for the Texas film industry, visit www.mediafortexas.com.

Follow Media for Texas on X and Instagram: @mediafortexas.