El Paso Filmmakers Are Pushing For More From The Texas Film Incentive Program

Texas just passed a historic bill to supercharge the state’s film incentive program, and the potential is huge. The new incentives could finally turn Texas into a filmmaking powerhouse, with cities like El Paso already getting a decent share of Hollywood attention. But our local filmmakers aren’t satisfied with just “decent.” They want to make sure the Sun City gets more than just a cameo in this production.

The 5% That Could Change Everything

Right now, Texas reimburses filmmakers for qualifying production costs spent in-state. That means if a film crew shoots here, they get a chunk of their money back. Local filmmakers are pushing for an extra 5% on top of that. It is a bonus that could actually put productions in the black instead of just breaking even. And yes, that means Texas would be paying people to make movies here. Sounds wild, but it works. Other states do it, and it is part of why they have become filming hotspots.

Texas Film Commission Says, “Go Bigger”

During the Plaza Classic Film Festival, Texas Film Commission reps made an appearance and essentially told El Paso: “Why stop at 5%? Aim for 10%.” It is not just theoretical. Other places offer more, and it is paying off for them. But here is the catch: if El Paso does not rally its lawmakers now, that bonus money will likely flow straight to Austin and Houston, where film infrastructure is already established. Translation: we will get the scraps while they feast on the big-budget productions.

Why This Matters for El Paso

El Paso has something the industry already loves: its scenery, its culture, and its people. Hollywood has shown up here before, and with the right incentives, it could make El Paso a regular stop for major productions. That means more consistent work for our filmmakers, millions in local economic impact, and the chance to see our city not just in the background, but in the spotlight. The question is whether our leaders will help us lock in that advantage before someone else yells “Cut!”

How You Can Help Keep El Paso in the Spotlight

If you are passionate about turning El Paso into a true filmmaking hub, there are ways to help. Contact your local representatives and let them know you support the push for an additional 5% to 10% in incentives. Lawmakers respond when they see there is public backing. You can also support local filmmakers directly by watching their movies, attending screenings, and sharing their work on social media. The more visible and celebrated our film community is, the easier it is to prove to the state that investing in El Paso is not just good politics. It is good business. Every ticket bought, every post shared, and every phone call to your rep tells Austin we are not here for background roles. We are here to lead.

You can also support the number of local film festivals that happen year round, like The El Paso Film Festival, coming up at the end of September where independent film makers from the Sun City shine. This year even brings Kevin Smith (Silent Bob for the people who don't know him by his real name), legendary writer and director as well as one of Hollywood's biggest advocates for indie movies. So go out and support the local film scene, it will pay off more than you know! Watching a couple extra indie films a year could be what tips the scales and convinces Hollywood that its time to make more movies in El Paso.