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Breaking into the industry

How do films get made? How do film sets run? Who’s in charge? What’s the difference between film, television and streaming? More importantly, how do I make money?

Film crew working on a beach at sunset with cameras and equipment.

Malibu, CA. On Location for “Dead to Me” Season 3

After a long brutal four years from the pandemic, to the double strikes from WGA and SAG, accompanied with terrible box office flops, Hollywood is trying it’s best to stop the hemorrhaging of money. Whether they learn from their mistakes, or not, is up for discussion.

Hollywood is going through major changes and will affect the industry as we know it. Money from well established production studios are leaving California, and a huge wave of independent studios are making a come back. They’re all looking to make productions in states with tax incentives and Texas is a big player. Austin, Dallas, San Antonio and Houston will be getting some “action.”

What does this mean for you?

This business can make or break you. Setting yourself up for success is crucial. Like a surfer, to catch a wave, you need to position yourself and be ready to paddle, before it forms.

When I first started in the industry, over 20 years ago, I had many obstacles. One of the most difficult things I dealt with was having access to information.

Where do I start? Where do I look? Who do I call? How do I get my foot in the door?

Film school was my best option. However, that is not the only way to break into this industry. I looked at my situation and realized I needed contacts, leads, and access to a working network. It wasn’t easy after film school. With hard work and determination, I finally landed a gig. However, once I made it on to a set, I had new concerns.

How do I carry myself? What do I do? What’s expected of me? How do I communicate? Who’s in charge? Who’s concerns do I prioritize? How do I keep from making a fool of myself? Who’s trying to make a fool of me?

Like the surfer, once you catch a wave you need to balance and not wipe out. And if you do, you need to be able to get back on the board. Also, you need to keep an eye out for danger, these are shark infested waters!

The wave is coming.

Are you ready to catch it?

Film crew on a beach setting up equipment with palm trees and tents in the background.
Film crew and actors on a beach set with camera crane, lounge chairs, umbrellas, and a boat in the background, wearing casual clothing and face masks.

CULTURE

Gov. Greg Abbott promotes workshop for Texas cities to become 'film friendly'

The state is already prepping for a boon of upcoming film and television productions.

By Jamil David, Culture Reporter March 24, 2025

Fans can invest and pitch in Robert Rodriguez's films

San Antonio-born director Robert Rodriguez is inviting fans to make movies with him by investing with Brass Knuckle Films, a venture he launched Tuesday.

Mar 11, 2025 - Madalyn Mendoza

TINSEL H-TOWN

Why Mo Means Even More to Houston than You Realize

The show made Palestinian Americans feel seen and heard, supported local film professionals, and gave important shout-outs to uniquely Houston businesses.

By Meredith Nudo March 19, 2025

SXSW 2025:

Tapping Into Texas’s Vast Potential to Become the Next Cinematic Frontier

By Bryan Abrams  |  March 13, 2025

GULF COAST

Return of '1923' puts spotlight on Galveston's growing TV and film industry

Practically an open-air studio, the island is ready for more business.

By Chris Gray, Gulf Coast Reporter

Feb 24, 2025

Texas Film Comission, SXSW, Media for TEXAS

Experience Texas Film in Austin at SXSW on March 12 during DEMO DAY!

This live demonstration will take you through every stage of creating a film, showcasing how the Texas entertainment industry drives economic growth and job creation. Explore the artistry behind set design, lighting, costumes, and cinematography while meeting the talented filmmakers and crew who work right here in Texas. Whether you're a film lover or curious about life on set, this is your chance to experience it all up close!

Media for Texas is excited to announce that they are hosting THE TEXAS FILM EXPERIENCE in partnership with SXSW on the Texas Capitol lawn. 12pm-3pm

The Texas Film Experience
Date: March 12th, 2025
Time: 12 - 3 PM
Location: Capitol South Lawn

TEXAS LEGISLATURE 2025

Texas is poised to become a film haven - but not without a fight

The Texas Senate has proposed injecting a staggering half a billion dollars into film production, as economists and fiscal hawks question the return on investment.

BY POOJA SALHOTRA

FEB. 16, 2025

SXSW - FILM & TV LINEUP

From March 7-15, Austin, TX will serve as the gathering place for a community united by their shared passion for storytelling.

The 2025 SXSW Film & TV Festival lineup is your much anticipated preview of innovative productions, emerging talent, and behind-the-scenes creatives destined for cinematic greatness.

Feb 3, 2025

Texas filmmakers weigh impact of proposed $498M film incentives

The funds are intended to make Texas the "movie capital of the world."

By Peter L. Scamardo II, Regional Editor Jan 30, 2025


Netflix’s ‘Mo’ Season 2 Premieres In Houston

With Celebrities Dave Chappelle, Bun B & More [Gallery]

Written by Editor at Global Grind, Published onJanuary 29, 2025


MCCONAUGHEY, HARRELSON REPRISE ‘TRUE DETECTIVE’ ROLES, PUSH FOR TEXAS-BASED PRODUCTIONS

Matthew McConaughey calls for more Hollywood productions filmed in Texas, following the state Senate's $498 million proposal to revamp the Texas Film Incentive

By KALIA RICHARDSON, JANUARY 29, 2025

Hollywood lights up Downtown El Paso: A look at the film production impact

Downtown El Paso transformed into a bustling movie set over the last few weeks, with Warner Brothers trucks everywhere.

Joe Gudenrath July 26, 2024