YOU JUST STEPPED into the McCarran Airport and you hear it, the clanging of slot machines.
You just stepped into a grocery store and you hear it, the clanging of slot machines.
You just stepped into a bar and…you get it.
It is no secret that in Nevada the gaming industry is King. But every good king needs a powerful, reliable, competent partner.
The last few years have proved that film and television productions are another valuable source of revenue for the state, and it's growing. The production industry is taking a rightful throne as Queen.
Because of its accessibility and unparalleled locations, Nevada's popularity with the production industry is booming. Feature films, reality TV, music videos, commercials, and documentaries bring in over $100 million annually as revenue for the state. While this amount may be far less than the billions of dollars gaming brings in, however, every bit counts, and Nevada is counting more and more productions yearly. Over 775 productions were completed in 2006 throughout the state, including the feature films Transformers, Lucky You, Knocked Up, and Smokin' Aces. More recent productions include TV shows, America's Got Talent, The Daily Show with John Stewart, and feature films, 21, to be released in March 2008, and The Return, still in production.
Both independent filmmakers and large studios regard Nevada as a film-friendly destination. Not only are film permits easy to obtain, most are free. There is little hassle with red tape that slows down productivity. Also, Nevada is a right-to-work state, allowing productions to determine employment needs from the state's local talent and crew base. Las Vegas' proximity to Los Angeles offers convenience of travel, and of course the city's world-class service and hospitality ensure visiting productions ease and relaxation, not to mention excitement. Nevada offers accommodations and amenities to fit every budget and taste, above and below the line.
"Your imagination. Our locations," isn't our motto for nothing. Nevada offers myriad of locations. Urban metropolises, mountains, craters, dry lakes, waterfalls, and of course the desert, are just a few of our backdrops. Not to ever be neglected, the world famous "Strip" is millions of dollars worth of free sets. In one state filmmakers can have sand dunes double as the Middle East, portray extraterrestrial activity, and illuminate the screen with the most exciting and entertaining city in the world.
Still considered the "Wild West," Nevada continues to serve filmmakers by providing resources, locations, and hospitality that is unsurpassed in an adventurous and accommodating atmosphere.
Nevada, and especially Las Vegas, is still young. The state is at an advantage for being able to plan for a future that will surely demand expansion. The real estate market is still lucrative and will only prosper. It is rare to flip five channels without catching a glimpse of the "Strip" on TV. Plus, the 36 million tourists that traipse down Las Vegas Boulevard each year can't be wrong. It's happening here, and the future looks as bright as a Las Vegas July.
Other film destinations offer incentives and rebates to productions for shooting on their turf. Several times, an incentive bill has been introduced but has never made it out of legislation. Nevada may not have film incentives, yet, but where else can you film, stay, and play with so many possibilities. More and more, filmmakers and production companies are realizing the benefits of 320 days of sunshine, free permits, one-of-a-kind locations, and inviting, helpful locals.
The Silver State may be a newcomer, but with gaming and production as King and Queen, don't be surprised to find Nevada becoming the Ace in no time, Jack.
