Austin’s Film Scene Turns 40: A New Look at the City’s Movie Magic

Austin has long been a magnet for filmmakers, and the city’s 40‑year journey in cinema is now being celebrated with a fresh visual tribute. The Austin Film Commission (AFC) teamed up with award‑winning actor Sonny Carl Davis, known for “The Whole Shootin’ Match” and “Buck Alamo, ” to create a promotional video that showcases the city’s film heritage and future prospects. The project was led by Senior Director of Film Marketing Brian Gannon, who explained that Austin’s film history is rich with iconic movies and TV shows. He added that the city offers excellent resources for filmmakers, from diverse locations to experienced crews and financial incentives. Cody Ground directed the short film, which was shot at Austin Studios—a key local facility—and produced by Arts+Labor, a prominent production company in the area. The video echoes the style of Davis’s earlier work with Richard Linklater for a political campaign, but it focuses on celebrating the city’s creative community instead of politics.Gannon highlighted the partnership with Arts+Labor and Davis, saying the promo tells a 100 % Austin story that honors four decades of work by the AFC, local talent, and businesses that have helped put Austin on the map. He emphasized how the city continues to thrive as a top destination for film projects, thanks to its varied locations, seasoned crews, cost‑saving incentives, and warm hospitality. The clip features Davis’s unmistakable charm and includes appearances by familiar faces such as John Merriman, known for “I’ve Got Issues, ” and former state senator‑turned‑actor Hector Uribe from “Tejano. ” Viewers can watch the video online to see how Austin’s film community is evolving while staying true to its roots.