Stars in Texas: Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, and Dennis Quaid Push for More Film in the Lone Star State

Hollywood Meets Texas: A Push for More Film Productions

Matthew McConaughey has never been one to sit on the sidelines whether it’s hyping up Longhorn football, delivering Oscar-worthy performances, or making “Alright, alright, alright” one of the most quotable lines in movie history. Now, he’s taking on a new challenge: bringing the film industry back to Texas. And he’s not doing it alone.

Joining him in the cause are fellow Texas natives Woody Harrelson and Dennis Quaid – two actors who, like McConaughey, have built legendary careers but still carry a deep love for their home state. Their mission? To make sure Texas isn’t just a great place to shoot movies, but a place where Hollywood-level productions can thrive.

It’s a big task. Texas has the scenery, the talent, and the history. Films like Dazed and Confused, No Country for Old Men, and Friday Night Lights prove that. But over the past decade, the state has lost out on major productions to places like Georgia and New Mexico, where generous tax incentives lure filmmakers away.

McConaughey, Harrelson, and Quaid believe it’s time to change that. They’re leading a charge to push Texas into the spotlight as a top destination for film and TV. And if their star power can get the job done, the Lone Star State might just be Hollywood’s next big competitor.

 

A New Campaign

The new True to Texas campaign short leading the charge on Youtube features McConaughey and Harrelson driving solemnly down a desert highway, reminiscent of their legendary partnership as Rust Cohle and Marty Hart in True Detective. In the back seat, a handcuffed Dennis Quaid rides along for the journey. As they make their way home, the duo reflects on how a stronger film and TV incentive program could bring significant benefits to Texas, from job creation to increased economic growth.

“I’m talking about a whole new hub for film and television,” says a stone-faced McConaughey intones in the video. “A renaissance. A rebirth.”

“How about a wholesale takeover?” Quaid adds from the back seat.

“Yeah, a small fraction of the Texas budget surplus could turn this state into the new Hollywood,” Harrelson says.

Packing in More Stars

In the video, McConaughey and Harrelson receive calls from Billy Bob Thornton and Renée Zellweger during their drive. Wearing a Longhorn hat, Zellweger shares her wish to work on projects in her home state, a sentiment echoed by the group. With the exception of Thornton, who was born in Arkansas but currently stars in a West Texas oil industry drama, all the actors featured in the campaign have Texas roots.

The campaign is part of an ongoing push for stronger tax incentives to attract film and television productions to Texas. Advocates believe that increasing these incentives would encourage more projects to be filmed in the state, boosting job opportunities and economic growth.

Texas has expanded funding for its Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program in recent years, with lawmakers approving over $200 million in 2023. However, the state still trails behind Georgia, New Mexico, and Louisiana in securing major productions.

Two years ago, Quaid, Harrelson, and Thornton joined Glen Powell and Owen Wilson in a similar campaign video, Good for Texas, which also promoted the idea of strengthening the state’s film industry.

Industry leaders, including Yellowstone and Landman creator Taylor Sheridan, have also called on Texas lawmakers to increase investment in film and television tax incentives. Sheridan credits the program with making it possible for him to produce his slate of successful shows in his home state.

The Advocates

Academy Award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey has always been a proud Texan. Born and raised in the state, he has never shied away from promoting Texas as a great place to live and work. As a professor at the University of Texas at Austin and a long-time supporter of various state initiatives, McConaughey sees film as another avenue to invest in Texas’ future.

His involvement in this movement isn’t surprising. In past interviews, he’s spoken about the importance of keeping Texas competitive in industries beyond oil and tech. He believes film can be a powerful economic driver, bringing high-paying jobs and infrastructure development.

Woody Harrelson, another Texas favorite, has built a career on versatile performances in both blockbuster hits and indie gems. With roots in Midland, Texas, Harrelson has a deep appreciation for the state’s storytelling potential. His support for this initiative aligns with his belief in the power of film to inspire and entertain while benefiting local communities.

Dennis Quaid, known for roles in films like The Rookie and The Day After Tomorrow, is another key advocate for bringing more productions to Texas. Having spent years in the industry, he understands the behind-the-scenes challenges of filmmaking and how tax incentives can make or break a production’s decision on where to film.

Why Texas? The State’s Untapped Film Potential

Texas offers diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and urban skylines to deserts and beaches – making it an ideal setting for all types of films. The state has already been home to classics like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Friday Night Lights, and Boyhood.

Yet, despite its natural advantages, Texas has lost out on major productions in recent years. Why? Other states, such as Georgia and New Mexico, have implemented aggressive tax incentives, making them more attractive for filmmakers.

One of the biggest roadblocks for Texas’ film industry has been the lack of competitive tax breaks. While Texas does offer some incentives through the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program (TMIIIP), the state hasn’t been as aggressive as those in other states.

For example:

• Georgia offers up to 30% tax credits for productions.
• New Mexico provides 25-35% refundable tax credits for film and TV projects.
• Louisiana has up to 40% in credits, attracting many Southern-based productions.

Texas, on the other hand, has struggled to match these numbers, leading many productions to choose locations with better financial incentives.

If Texas becomes a major hub for film and TV production, the benefits could be widespread. More productions would create jobs for local crew members, actors, and businesses that support filmmaking. The influx of film crews would also provide a boost to local businesses, with hotels, restaurants, and rental services seeing increased demand. Additionally, tourism could see a significant uptick, as fans love visiting famous filming locations—just as Breaking Bad turned Albuquerque into a must-visit destination for TV enthusiasts.

States like Georgia have seen their economies boom thanks to the entertainment industry, with an estimated $4 billion annual impact from film and TV production. Advocates believe Texas has the potential to achieve similar success if the right policies are put in place.

Check Out:The Best Fairs in Texas

A Growing Movement: Texas Film-Friendly Cities

Some Texas cities have already embraced the film industry and are actively working to attract more productions. Austin, long known as a creative hub, has hosted major projects like Fear the Walking Dead and Friday Night Lights. Dallas/Fort Worth, with its mix of modern and historic locations, has been the backdrop for films and shows such as Robocop and Walker, Texas Ranger. Meanwhile, the small town of Marfa has gained fame for its role in critically acclaimed films like No Country for Old Men and There Will Be Blood. These cities showcase Texas’ potential as a prime destination for filmmakers.

With more support, these cities and others could become even bigger players in the film industry.

McConaughey, Harrelson, and Quaid aren’t just talking about bringing film back to Texas; they’re actively working on it. Their involvement could help push for legislative changes that make Texas a more attractive destination for filmmakers.

Check Out:Top 5 Sites to Visit in Houston for Black History Month

Quick Facts: The Push to Bring Film to Texas

• Who’s involved? Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, and Dennis Quaid.
• What’s the goal? Attract more film and TV productions to Texas.
• Why Texas? Diverse landscapes, talented workforce, and a strong film history.
• What’s the challenge? Texas lacks competitive tax incentives compared to Georgia, New Mexico, and Louisiana.
• How does this help Texas? Creates jobs, boosts local businesses, and increases tourism.
• What’s next? Advocating for better tax incentives, investing in film infrastructure, and promoting Texas as a top filming destination.

---

Discover more unique stays and travel inspiration with A Texas Guide
Follow Us

Instagram:@atexasguide
TikTok:@atexasguide
YouTube:A Texas Guide
Facebook:A Texas Guide