EditorƵs Note: This is the third article in a four part series that details the making of a movie in Victoria entitled ƵRide or DieƵ which is a Bonnie and Clyde-inspired film starring and directed by L.A. photographer and director, Joshua Shultz.
Could Victoria become the next L.A., the next Hollywood? Picture an iconic Victoria sign sprawling over the hill, overlooking this not-so little town.
For some, making Victoria into a movie hub is more than just a pipe dream; itƵs already become a reality set in motion.
When friend Joshua Shultz, looked for a place to film Ride or Die, co-founder of Viva Texas Film Festival Karissa Winters said, why not Victoria? ThatƵs been a question Winters and many others have posed for years as she has watched other small Texas towns become film destinations.
It wasnƵt a hard sell getting Shultz to make Victoria the backdrop for his movie as Shultz has filmed multiple projects previously here. Knowing the community would rally behind the project, Shultz set his sights on Victoria for his project, bringing more than just exposure to the area but also business possibilities.
ƵThe movie was an opportunity for people in the community who are interested in film. They got to work alongside professionals, make connections and get hands-on career skills and experience,Ƶ Winters said.
This was the vision Winters had imagined, and now local artists and dream makers can see a pathway for a career in film right in their own backyard.
ƵThereƵs so much value in skill training and bolstering your résumé by working on films like Ride or Die and getting your own credit on IMBD. ThatƵs opening doors not just for the city, but for people as well,Ƶ Winters said.
By providing job opportunities and producing the talent to make films, Victoria becomes more attractive to outside investors.
ƵWe have what it takes; we have the talent, we have the gumption Ƶ we just need the projects,Ƶ Winters said.
Winters knows the talent exists because sheƵs seen it firsthand with the Viva Texas Film Festival, which has highlighted filmmakers from all over the world Ƶ from small indie producers to recognizable names high up on the end credit roll.
ƵWe have more talent than some of the regular industry professionals,Ƶ Winters said.
Aside from putting local movie buffs and actors on the map in a metaphorical sense, Ride or Die also helped Victoria attract exposure.
ƵThis film was a calling card to show the world VictoriaƵs local talent Ƶ weƵre just waiting for the word to get out, Ƶ Winters said.
Towns like Smithville, Texas, where the 1998 film Hope Floats starring Sandra Bullock was filmed, have seen an uptick in tourism and film production. Movie movement tourism and having recognizable and accessible film focal points like the filmƵs HuebelƵs Bar brings more traffic and business through the town.
Locations like FossatiƵs Delicatessen, a historic landmark where scenes from Ride or Die were filmed, are accessible to the public and easily recognizable in the film.
In Ride or Die, The Barn, Texanna Inn in Inez, local ranches and roadways set the scene in ShultzƵs action-packed film.
But it wouldnƵt only be filmmakers or the city itself profiting from locally filmed movies. Small businesses would also see more green in their wallets.
When a large cast and crew come to Victoria to shoot a movie where they eat, sleep, drink and shop in, local businesses and restaurants profit from it. When a production lasts years, it generates more money and exposure for boutiques, hotels and restaurants.
ƵWe have to work together to show the world how special Victoria is,Ƶ Winters said.
To read more about local talent, out-of-town features and production, check out previous articles in this series.
Commented
Sorry, there are no recent results for popular commented articles.