Houston on the Big Screen: Movies Filmed in the Space City

Hey there, movie buffs! Today, we're diving into the world of cinema and exploring the vibrant city of Houston, Texas. You might know it as the 'Space City,' but did you know it's also a star in its own right when it comes to the silver screen? Let's take a look at some of the movies filmed in Houston, TX that you might enjoy. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and movies filmed in houston tx.

Houston's Role in Cinema

Before we jump into the movies, let's talk about why Houston is such a hotspot for filmmakers. With its diverse neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and unique culture, Houston offers a rich tapestry of backdrops that can bring any story to life. Plus, with its Film Commission offering support and resources, it's no wonder Houston has become a go-to location for film productions.

Big-Budget Blockbusters

Interview with the Vampire (1994)

Kicking off our list is this 1994 hit, based on Anne Rice's best-selling novel. Directed by Neil Jordan, this gothic horror flick stars Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise as vampires Louis and Lestat. While much of the movie was filmed in New Orleans, Houston played a significant role, doubling as 19th-century New Orleans and other locations. You can spot the Texas State Capitol and the Wortham Center among the city's stand-ins.

Rushmore (1998)

Wes Anderson's quirky comedy-drama might not be the first movie that comes to mind when you think of movies filmed in Houston, TX, but it's worth a mention. While the story primarily unfolds in the fictional town of Rushmore, several scenes were shot in Houston. Keep an eye out for the Houston Zoo and the Memorial Drive neighborhood.

Independent Gems

Boyhood (2014)

Richard Linklater's groundbreaking coming-of-age drama was filmed entirely in and around Houston over the course of 12 years. The movie follows Mason Evans Jr. (Ellar Coltrane) from ages 6 to 18, exploring the ups and downs of his life and family. You'll see plenty of Houston neighborhoods, like Montrose and the Heights, as well as local landmarks like the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Galveston Beach.

Mississippi Grind (2015)

This indie drama, directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, tells the story of two gamblers, Gerry (Ben Mendelsohn) and Curtis (Ryan Reynolds), as they embark on a road trip through the South. While the movie's plot takes them to various locations, several scenes were shot in Houston, including the Pasadena neighborhood and the Kemah Boardwalk.

Houston-Based Productions

Dazed and Confused (1993)

While this cult classic was primarily filmed in Austin, it's directed by Houston native Richard Linklater and features several Houston-based actors, like Matthew McConaughey and Ben Affleck. The movie captures the spirit of a group of Texas teens on the last day of school in 1976, and it's a must-watch for anyone interested in movies filmed in Houston, TX.

Friday Night Lights (TV Series, 2006-2011)

Based on the non-fiction book of the same name, this critically acclaimed TV series follows the lives of a high school football team in the fictional town of Dillon, Texas. While the show was primarily filmed in Austin, several episodes were shot in Houston, and the city's football culture served as a significant inspiration for the series.

Honorable Mentions

Before we wrap up, let's give a shout-out to some other movies filmed in Houston, TX that deserve a watch:

The Newton Boys (1998) Office Space (1999) Secondhand Lions (2003) Gridiron Gang (2006) Parker (2013) Get Hard (2015) Deepwater Horizon (2016) A24's "The Vast of Night" (2019)

Houston's Film Scene: More Than Just a Backdrop

As you can see, Houston has played a significant role in the film industry, serving as a backdrop for countless movies and TV shows. But it's not just a pretty face – Houston's film scene is thriving, with local film festivals, production companies, and a growing community of filmmakers.

So, the next time you're in the mood for a movie night, why not stream one of these movies filmed in Houston, TX and support the Space City's booming film scene? Happy watching, folks!