San Antonio Brings Hollywood Home After Century with ‘1923’ Production

Hollywood is setting its sights on San Antonio as officials announce the filming of the “Yellowstone” prequel “1923” in the city this September. This production holds significant historical resonance as it marks a century since the filming of the epochal movie “Wings” in San Antonio.

The Echoes of History

The upcoming series mirrors the time period of its predecessor, a moment when San Antonio first landed a spot in Hollywood’s spotlight as the locale for “Wings”, the first film to clinch the Academy Award for Outstanding Picture. Remarkably, “Wings”, released by Paramount in 1927, was a prime silent film of its time and now, a century later, Paramount+ is the network behind “1923”. A remarkable feat that brings the city’s filmmaking history full-circle.

An Affirmation of San Antonio’s Capabilities

The CEO of Women in Film & Television San Antonio, Ceslie Armstrong, is heralding this as a momentous occasion for San Antonio’s film industry. Armstrong, who took part in the negotiations to bring “1923” to San Antonio, observes that the premiere of “Wings” was a mere stone’s throw away from the upcoming production site of “1923”. She highlights the instrumental roles of San Antonio’s Arts & Culture Department and the San Antonio Film Commission in securing the project. This paints a promising picture for the city, positioning it as capable and enthusiastic about hosting productions of this scale.

Beyond Impact on the Film Industry

But the implications of filming “1923” in San Antonio go beyond the film industry. Armstrong envisages a ‘halo effect’, the production is expected to engage local talent and stimulate local sectors including catering, hospitality, and transport services, among others. Moreover, it might act as a catalyst in drawing more film projects to the city in the future.

Women in Film & Television San Antonio Take the Lead

Armstrong highlights the crucial involvement of women in the process, including the head of the city’s film commission, Kim LeBlanc. This achievement holds particular significance for Armstrong and members of Women in Film & Television, an organization that has been advocating for and supporting women in media for over 50 years.

The Legacy of ‘Wings’

The filming of “Wings” in San Antonio between 1926 and 1927 was a major cinematic event that employed hundreds of extras and about 300 pilots. With a budget equivalent to $35 million today, the production team created a trench-cut battlefield at Fort Stanley, employing 5,000 troops from Fort Sam Houston and 45 planes from Kelly Field. Apart from featu display of WWI aviation and grand battlefield sequences, “Wings” showcased prominent Hollywood stars of the era such as Clara Bow, Buddy Rogers, and Richard Arlen. The film also played a pivotal role in the launch of Gary Cooper’s career. It was the first recipient of an Academy Award – winning “Outstanding Picture”, today’s equivalent of “Best Picture”, and Best Engineering Effects.

The filming of “1923” in San Antonio not only marks a return to San Antonio’s cinematic roots but also a promising new beginning for the city in the film industry of today.