Ahhh. Austin, Texas. The city I now call home was recently named the number three place for filmmakers to work and live by Movie Maker Magazine. Robert Rodriguez and Richard Linklater were at the forefront of bringing the cinema world to central Texas but independent projects, such as Rooster Teeth’s new film Lazer Team, have become more and more common. The local SXSW film festival does a great job of highlighting studio films along with these indie darlings that are locally made.
But don’t think moving here means that you don’t have access to jobs for major studios. TV shows and movies such as The Leftovers, Tree of Life, Friday Night Lights, and 25th Hour were all shot in Austin. The wonderful dichotomy between the city, suburbs and hill country provides filmmakers every type of space they need for shooting.
One of the many things that makes Austin such a hot bed for filmmakers, is the culture. I’ve been involved in several different film projects in the city and a common theme that runs through each one is the kindness and willingness of others to help. It really is a wonderful place for people who want to break into the industry to get their feet wet, but don’t want to get swallowed up in the machines that are New York or LA.
So if you’re thinking of breaking into the business, Austin is a fantastic option. Come for the film culture, stay for the BBQ.
Links for production houses and casting agencies in the Austin area:
Spiderwood Studios:
https://www.spiderwoodstudios.com/
Austin Studios:
https://www.austinfilm.org/austinstudios
360 Studios:
Hack-Studios:
Riot Studios:
Beth Sepko Casting:
https://www.bethsepkocasting.com/
Burton Casting Company:
By: Brian Arterburn
