Weslaco Chamber Along with Valley Businesses Support Movie Crews

The Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce along with many Rio Grande Valley businesses are supporting the efforts of local filmmaker David Rice in the production of “Gone Hollywood” and “Scavengers”, two films being produced in collaboration with national talent from Los Angeles, New York and Miami.

Executive Producer David Haines and Rice are shooting the film for the next five weeks in the Edcouch/Elsa area.  Both movies will be family friendly positive films reflecting the Valley’s true values of family, friends and faith.  Rice, a Valley native is tired of seeing the area depicted as a violent drug culture and says it is time to take control of the message that is produced in films.  “I believe we should tell an honest and good story about the people of the Valley who are hard working church going folks,” Rice said.

Haines, has been in front of the camera as well as behind in such movies as “The Pursuit of Happyness”, “Ali”, “Bad Boys II” and has played the photo double for Will Smith in various roles.  He has found the Valley to be warm and hospitable and is enjoying his stay in the area as the Executive Producer of both films. As he is working with local talent, he is finding these young filmmakers to be eager and ready to expand their craft.  The community support has amazed Haines where he has found a strong sense of family and God and believes with that everything is possible.  “I take the responsibility of protecting and guarding the integrity of the community very seriously,” Haines said. “We don’t want to be like the circus that comes to town that takes and doesn’t give back.  This has become a fair exchange where the community is part of this endeavor and we will give back to it a positive and enlightening film that shines on the Rio Grande Valley,” he added.

The production of these two films are not only boosting the area’s economy to the tune of more than $300,000, the advancement for the young professionals in the area who have the opportunity to hone their craft working side by side with industry professionals has been immeasurable.  There are actors, producers and directors here working with local talent offering mentorship, guidance and motivation that has proven to be invaluable.  “Valley talent can succeed while they turn the national spotlight back on their home turf,” Rice added.  This crew is working more than 12 hour days, pursuing their dreams. 

These movies are not only a boost to the local economy, the project offers opportunities to talent in the Valley giving motivation to our local students showing that this caliber of production can be done here at home.  Local businesses are supporting the effort with goods and services. 

The staff of the Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce sees this as an opportunity to lend a hand to a project that is stepping up to the plate to illustrate the Valley’s people as honest hard working individuals.  Martha Noell, President and CEO of the Chamber is happy to offer support to the filmmakers. “Too often we see movies or hear stories that are negative depicting the Valley as a violent region.”  She adds, “This is a perfect example of people who come together and tell the true story of our beautiful Rio Grande Valley and the people who live here.” 

Many Valley communities and businesses are supporting the venture with film locations, hotel rooms, food for the crew and transportation.