Fort Worth Film Commission
As a Fort Worth City Councilmember, my recent experience as an extra on the set of "Special Ops:Lioness season 2," alongside Hollywood heavyweights Nicole Kidman, Zoe Saldana, and Michael Kelly, offered me a unique lens into the burgeoning film industry in our city. (Look for me, fittingly, at a bar 29 minutes into episode 4). This experience not only highlighted the glamour of Hollywood but also underscored the significant economic impact that film production has on Fort Worth.
Since 2015, the Fort Worth Film Commission has been instrumental in attracting productions to our city, yielding impressive results. Over the past eight years, the film industry has generated approximately $655 million in economic impact for Fort Worth. This influx of capital has rippled through various sectors of our local economy, from hospitality to equipment rentals and catering services. Perhaps even more impressive is the job creation. The film industry has birthed more than 20,000 local jobs during this period. These opportunities are not fleeting. They contribute to the long-term economic stability of our residents.
Michael D. Crain
Fort Worth has become a sought-after location for major productions. In recent years, we have hosted several high-profile projects, including Taylor Sheridan's "1883," "Lawmen: Bass Reeves," and the upcoming "Landman," which stars Billy Bob Thornton, Demi Moore, and Jon Hamm. These productions not only bring immediate economic benefits but also enhance our tourism industry. Fans of shows such as "Yellowstone" and "1883" are flocking to Fort Worth to experience the locations they have seen on screen.
The success of our film industry is not accidental. It results from strategic incentives that make Fort Worth an attractive destination for filmmakers. Mayor Mattie Parker recently testified before the Texas Senate Finance Committee, emphasizing the need for more state funding in the Moving Image Incentive Program. The math is compelling: For every dollar invested in incentives, we see a fivefold return in economic impact. This remarkable return on investment has positioned Fort Worth as one of the top cities in Texas for filming projects.
To sustain this growth, we are investing in our local workforce. The Fort Worth Film Commission has partnered with Tarrant County College and 101 Studios to create the Fort Worth Film Collaborative program. This initiative aims to cultivate a skilled pool of crew members locally, ensuring that we can meet the demands of incoming productions while providing valuable career opportunities for our residents.
Film Fort Worth, a division of Visit Fort Worth, plays a crucial role in this cinematic renaissance. They serve as the primary liaison between filmmakers and our city, actively promoting Fort Worth as a premier filming destination. Their comprehensive services include location scouting assistance, permitting facilitation, local crew and vendor recommendations, and community relations support. By streamlining these processes, Film Fort Worth has been instrumental in attracting major productions and ensuring their smooth execution within our city limits.
The impact of the film industry extends far beyond immediate production costs. When a major project comes to Fort Worth, it creates a ripple effect throughout our economy. Hotels see increased bookings for cast and crew while local restaurants experience a surge in business. Equipment rental companies thrive alongside local extras and crew members who earn income from these projects. Post-production work often involves local talent and facilities as well. This diverse economic stimulation underscores the importance of continuing to invest in and support our growing film industry.
While on set during the filming of "Lioness 2," it became clear that Fort Worth is not just a backdrop for stories. Fort Worth is becoming a central character in its own narrative of growth and opportunity within the film industry. The excitement around local productions is palpable — residents are buzzing about celebrity sightings and filming locations popping up around town.
The collaboration fostered by Film Fort Worth and local partners ensures that we are not just spectators but active participants in this cinematic journey. By investing in our community and supporting initiatives that attract filmmakers, we are setting the stage for a thriving future where Fort Worth continues to shine brightly on the silver screen.
My time on set was more than just an adventure. It was a testament to how far we've come and how much further we can go. With continued support from our local government and community stakeholders, I am excited to see how many more stories will be told against the vibrant backdrop of Fort Worth. The film industry is not just about entertainment. It's about economic growth, job creation, and putting our city on the map. With each new production, we're not just filming scenes, we're crafting a narrative of progress and opportunity for Fort Worth.