San Antonio is celebrating a milestone in its film industry with the 40th anniversary of its Film Commission. Created to support media production, the commission has played a key role in promoting the city’s cinematic projects and local talent through grant programs. According to the City of San Antonio, Governor Greg Abbott marked the occasion with a proclamation recognizing the commission’s contributions to the growth of Texas’s film industry.
San Antonio has seen a significant increase in filming activity in recent years. Since relaunching its film incentive program in 2022, the city has recorded a 165% rise in film permits and nearly doubled filming days to 710. Governor Greg Abbott noted that the commission has made a substantial impact on the film, television, commercial, and digital production industries in Texas.
San Antonio’s long-standing connection to film, including projects like the Academy Award-winning Wings, highlights the city’s enduring contribution to the arts. The San Antonio Film Commission continues this legacy by supporting both large-scale productions and independent filmmakers. Krystal Jones, director of the City’s Arts & Culture Department, credited the city’s people and values for its appeal and expressed pride in what distinguishes San Antonio in the film industry.
Last month, San Antonio’s City Council approved a record expansion of its film incentive, now called the San Antonio Film Incentive, aligning with the state-led Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program. The program increases the city’s base rebate and adds bonuses for meeting specific criteria, aiming to strengthen San Antonio’s status as a production hub. Film Commissioner Christine Hill noted that the city’s experience and innovative approach have influenced local incentive models nationwide while promoting San Antonio’s landscapes, architecture, and culture.
With this expansion and the state’s funding commitment through 2035, San Antonio is positioning itself to continue its legacy while strengthening its role as a premier destination for filmmakers and media creators.
